Skip to main content

METER EXCHANGE PROGRAM

MVD continuously invests in the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the water system. The Meter Exchange Program is a key component of these efforts. Replacing water meters ensures the accuracy of meter readings & billings, supports MVD in monitoring & analyzing water usage for planning purposes, and enables proactive identification & repair of water leaks. 

Service locations that are due for a meter exchange will receive an “Appointment Required” tag as pictured below.

Merrimack Village District requires appointments for water meter exchanges, which are free and take about 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why does the water meter need to be exchanged? 

Like any mechanical device, water meters are susceptible to wear and deterioration over time; this results in the internal mechanisms slowing down. As such, the water usage registers less than the amount that was actually used. Due to this, when a meter is exchanged, there can be a notable increase in usage. This results in unaccounted-for or “lost” water. Lost water has a fiscal impact on MVD and its customers. Lost water is not billed and does not generate revenue; however, it still costs MVD to pump, treat, and distribute the water. The potential for revenue loss can be staggering if a large number of meters are under-registering. MVD’s water meter exchange program is intended to decrease lost water and thereby reduce unnecessary costs. 

Is there something wrong with the meter? 

MVD continuously invests in the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the water system. The Meter Exchange Program is a key component of these efforts. Replacing water meters ensures the accuracy of meter readings & billings, supports MVD in monitoring & analyzing water usage for planning purposes, and enables proactive identification & repair of water leaks. 

Like any mechanical device, water meters are susceptible to wear and deterioration over time; this results in the internal mechanisms slowing down. As such, the water usage registers less than the amount that was actually used. Due to this, when a meter is exchanged, there can be a notable increase in usage. This results in unaccounted-for or “lost” water. Lost water has a fiscal impact on MVD and its customers. Lost water is not billed and does not generate revenue; however, it still costs MVD to pump, treat, and distribute the water. The potential for revenue loss can be staggering if a large number of meters are under-registering. MVD’s water meter exchange program is intended to decrease lost water and thereby reduce unnecessary costs. 

Is there a fee for the water meter exchange? 

There is *NO charge to customers for the water meter exchange.

*For meters above 1 inch in size: MVD will provide the meter for the replacement; however, it is the responsibility of the property owner to have the meter replaced, as MVD does not perform any plumbing and does not install or replace meters that are above 1 inch in size. The property owner may replace the meter themselves or select a plumber/contractor of their choice at their own expense. MVD does not make any recommendations and does not have preferred plumbers/contractors. In order to ensure the meter is operating properly and able to be read remotely, MVD requires either to be on-site during the replacement or to perform an inspection after the replacement.

How long will the appointment take? 

The meter exchange takes approximately a 1/2 hour.

Will someone need to be at the location? 

Most water meters are located inside the home or building where the water service line enters the building (typically in the basement or utility closet). As such, MVD requires someone age 18 or older to be at the location during the appointment.

*If the building does not have a 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).

Will the water be turned off? 

There will be a temporary and brief shut-off during the water meter exchange.

Is the exchange required? 

Yes, the water meter exchange is not optional. 

Is there any other info to be aware of? 
  • Pets: Prior to the Field Staff’s arrival and during the appointment, we ask that pets be kept in a secure area where they are not able to break free; this is not only for the staff’s protection, but to ensure your pet feels safe and comfortable during our visit.
  • Access: Please make sure there is a clear path to the device(s), as well as approximately 3 feet of clearance.

Still have questions…?
Contact us by phone at 603-424-9241 or email customerservice@mvdwaternh.gov.

Join our mailing list