What is a smart water meter?
Smart water meters allow for all residential and business water meters to be read remotely via a regular radio frequency transmission sent directly from each individual meter. By the end of June 2011, nearly every property receiving water from the City’s water system will have their meter connected toa radio transmitter that sends reading data to City Hall.
Do I need to do any maintenance on the smart water meter?
No. The smart water meter transmits data through a radio antenna located in the meter box. If you cut your grass short, we recommend that you do not mow directly over top of the meter box or landscape (place rocks, flower pots or other objects) around or on the meter lid.
Why use smart water meter technology?
The smart water meters are less expensive to operate and maintain. They will provide a snapshot of water consumption across the City in near real time which will assist staff in anticipating water demands as our new water source is developed.
The smart water meters also provide the added benefit to residents of early leak detection (as soon as one day after the leak starts) which could have previously gone undetected for up to 12 months.
How does this enhance customer service?
The smart water meters will allow for residents to review their water consumption in a timely manner and assist with conservation efforts. At any time, a resident is able to assess their consumption in near real time by contacting the Engineering Department at City Hall.
How does the smart water metering system work?
Every smart water meter in the City conducts a meter read every hour and transmits this data through a standard radio frequency. The data is received by several collecting units throughout the City and is transmitted to City Hall.
How often is my meter being read?
Water consumption is measured every hour and data is transmitted daily. However, an on demand read is possible at any point in time.
Why did we update the water metering system?
The City of Abbotsford’s previous water meters were only able to measure to the nearest cubic meter (1000 litres) and were nearing the end of their lifespan (meters lose accuracy after about 15 years). The new smart water meter system is able to read meters on a close to real-time basis and will be able to read consumption to the nearest litre. This will be essential in detecting water leaks and managing the City of Abbotsford’s overall water system.
What do I do if water is leaking from my meter?
If you believe you have a water leak, please phone the Engineering Department at 604-864-5511 as soon as possible.
For more information about the new smart water meter system please contact the City of Abbotsford at 604-864-5511 or email
wateruse@abbotsford.ca.