Utility Meter Shop Supervisor Alfredo Aleman tests features of the new Kamstrup advanced meters, which are being installed across El Paso. Photo by El Paso Water.
Managing your water usage is about to get easier once advanced meter installations are completed next year.
El Paso Water is replacing all residential and commercial customer water meters with new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters. So far, almost 40% of customers have newly installed Kamstrup meters.
Mechanical meters are outdated
AMI meters use advanced technology to securely collect and transmit data wirelessly by the hour. Also, with no movable parts to break down, these durable meters have a longer lifespan than their mechanical counterparts.
Because advanced metering technology eliminates the need for manual readings, meter readers will be reassigned to new roles based on utility needs.
Major benefits are on the way for the utility and the customer, with faster, more accurate data and detailed information on water consumption patterns. Customers may notice their first few bills may be slightly higher because of the accurate measurement.
More importantly, advanced meters can detect leaks quickly and reduce water waste, adding another tool to EPWater’s leak-detection methods. An accurate measurement of water will ensure operational efficiency and enhance customer service.
“We are moving away from using mechanical meters,” said Alfredo Aleman, Utility Meter Shop supervisor. “They always tended to slow down with age or stop altogether, as sediments and minerals entered the chamber.”
The differences are outlined between old (left) and new meters.
High-performance technology
Most of the new meters are equipped with acoustic leak detection systems that can detect and pinpoint leaks in the water distribution system. Identifying leaks early reduces water loss, helping homeowners to avoid higher bills if leaks go undetected.
“Acoustic leak detection will help us prevent larger issues from happening, which benefits both the customer and EPWater,” Aleman said.
A customer portal will be launched once up to 75% of meter installations are complete.
“Access to the information is something I know customers want,” Aleman said. “Customers will have the ability to see their consumption hourly and daily, to manage their bill, and to also manage their consumption if they are away from home.”
With the future of water management on the way, questions are sure to arise, Aleman said.
“As we install more meters, customers will want more information,” Aleman said. “Find out more on epwater.org.”
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