Water Meter Replacement Program
Countryside Service Area
In order to provide a reliable, high quality water supply, Oro Valley Water Utility continually upgrades and improves our water system and facilities. The Water Meter Replacement Program is an important part of upgrading our water system.
Water meters are the devices used to measure the amount of water delivered to customers. Replacing old water meters helps ensure the Oro Valley Water Utility can accurately track both individual water usage for billing purposes and also monitor and evaluate community water demands.
The following questions and answers are provided to help customers understand why the replacement program is needed and how it will operate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is my water meter? All meters are below ground in concrete meter boxes with lids. Meter boxes are typically located near the sidewalk or curb at the front of the house.
Why do water meters need to be replaced? As with any measuring device, meters can become less accurate as they age. Many water meters in this area are over 20 years old and are due for replacement.
Who will install the new meters? Oro Valley Water Utility has hired a private contractor, SL-serco, to replace the old water meters.
How will I know the installer works for you? All installers will wear uniforms and drive a vehicle with the SL-serco company logo and will carry picture identification badges.
What about the plumbing from the meter to my house? The customer is responsible for the repair of defective plumbing or deteriorating pipes on the customer side of the meter. When such conditions prevent the meter replacement, the customer will be advised of the repairs needed.
Will my water service be interrupted during the installation? Yes, there will be a temporary interruption while the meter is being replaced — this typically takes about 30 minutes.
Do I need to be home for the meter replacement work? No, and appointments are not needed for the work to be done. The installer will check to see if anyone is home before replacing the meter. If it is inconvenient to have the water off at that time, the installer will make an arrangement for another time.
How will I know if my meter was replaced? The installer will leave a copy of this pamphlet with you or a copy will be left at your door.
What will the new meter cost me? There is no charge for the new meter.
Will my water bill increase? Older meters tend to not measure all of the water going through them. The new meter will be more accurate and will measure all of the water going through the meter which could increase your water bill. However, the ability to more accurately monitor community water usage will help conserve our valuable water supply.
Are the new meters the same as the ones being replaced? No, the new meters will be installed with equipment that transmit meter readings to computer equipment in our office by way of radio frequency. These automated meters eliminate the need to obtain readings directly from the meter and therefore improve the efficiency and lower the cost of the meter reading program. With no moving parts, the meters will accurately measure water flow for the 20 year life of the meter.
What powers the radio transmitter? The radio is a battery powered device. The expected life of the battery is 20 years which coincides with the expected life of the new meter.
Will the radio transmitter interfere with my television, cordless phone, garage doors or pacemaker? No, the radio transmissions occur on a frequency different from those used by television signals, cordless phones, garage doors and pacemakers. In addition, the transmissions last less than one second.
Are there any hazards that could result from having the radio transmitter near my home or business? No, this type of equipment is regulated by the FCC and transmits with extremely low power (less than 1/100th of a watt). Each radio transmission lasts less than one second.
Why is the Oro Valley Water Utility hiring contractors to do the upgrade work? The Utility has contracted with SL-serco for assistance to complete the replacement of over 2,000 water meters in a timely fashion.
All installers will wear company apparel that clearly indicates they work for SL-serco and they will have an ID badge.
What if there is a leak at the meter or any other problem after the meter has been replaced? To report a leak after your new meter has been installed, please contact Oro Valley Water at 940-0409. Utility personnel will determine the cause of the leak or problem and take appropriate action.
What if I have questions about the Meter Replacement Program? For more information on the Meter Replacement Program, please contact: