FAQ & ANSWERS ABOUT METERS
Water meters measure the quantity (volume) of water that passes through them from the incoming water service line. MVD water meters measure in cubic feet (cu ft). 1 cu ft is equal to 7.48 gallons of water (click HERE to view the Billing Info page)
Water meters are comprised of multiple parts, which include the following items:
- Base/Bottom: Brass device installed into the Water Meter Horn. The Base/Bottom contains the water flow measuring device. The size of the Base/Bottom determines the water flow rate for the location.
- Top/Register: Device attached to the Base/Bottom which records water usage data and visually displays readings. There are two types of Tops/Registers. Analog, which are round in shape with dials, and Digital, which can be either round or rectangular in shape with a digital display; both look similar to an odometer.
- Transmitter: Device connected by wires to the Top/Register. Each transmitter is permanently programmed with a specific unique numeric ID/Serial Number. The Transmitter sends the reading from the Top/Register via radio frequency remotely to MVD’s mobile data collector - computer software that is programmed with the specific data exclusive to each individual Water Meter & Transmitter at every service location.
Most water meters are located inside the home or building where the water service line enters the building (typically in the basement). If the building does not have basement, the meter will either be inside a utility closet or located outside of the property in a meter pit (examples of these locations include Camp Sargent Co-Op & most of the condo developments).
That is an old-style register that is no longer used by MVD. In the early 2000s, MVD performed meter replacements, which included installing new registers inside the location. To prevent any potential damage, the old-style registers were not removed. Property owners are permitted to remove these as they see fit.
MVD reads water meters remotely. The Transmitter sends the reading from the Top/Register via radio frequency remotely to MVD’s mobile data collector – computer software that is programmed with the specific data exclusive to each individual Water Meter & Transmitter at every service location.
If MVD is unable to read the meter remotely, the water usage for the bill will be estimated based on the prior account history. Once an actual reading is obtained, the usage and billing will be adjusted if necessary. If there are subsequent issues with obtaining meter readings, an appointment may be required.
Yes! You can check the meter - refer to the WATER LEAK DETECTION & USAGE MONITORING page for instructions on how to read the water meter register to monitor water usage as well as to check for leaks.
MVD only inspects for unmetered water leaks, such as a leak in the water service line.
You can check the meter - refer to the WATER LEAK DETECTION page for instructions on how to read the water meter register to monitor water usage as well as to check for leaks.
Click HERE to view the WATER LEAK DETECTION page for instructions & details.