FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why install remote read meters?
Deschutes Valley Water District has installed this new infrastructure because the legacy (existing) meters are wearing out–many of which have been in use for over 20 years. As meters (and their registers) age, their accuracy begins to decline.
Are the new radio read meters really required?
Yes. The new meter is required for future billing.
How much will the new meter cost me?
There is no charge to individual customers for meter replacement. The new meters are an investment in our infrastructure that will improve billing efficiency and customer service.
Why change the meters now?
The decision to implement the new system was driven by its ability to help the Water District automate the collection of meter readings. With manual reading of meters and the large size of our District, it has taken up to three weeks to read all the meters, so everyone has historically had different read dates, which has led to confusion. A new remote read meter provides customers with a better understanding of their water bills and will help identify leaks that result in water loss. The billing period and meter reading period will run more concurrently, thus eliminating confusion that has existed in the past.
What makes radio read (smart) meters different than the meters we have?
A radio read meter measures how much water is used every hour instead of on a monthly basis. These readings allow the District to manage overall system use and detect any problems, such as water leaks, very quickly. In the near future, customers will be able to sign up to receive alerts via email or text, of potential water leaks.
Is my personal water use information confidential?
Yes. The only information communicated via the new smart meter is your meter number and your water usage. Your utility usage information will be safely transmitted over secure networks to the Water District. As is the case now, your usage information will be protected and secure. The Water District, as always, must comply with federal laws regarding privacy, protection and disclosure of personal information.
Do I have to be present for the installation?
No. Installers will attempt to make contact with the homeowner/tenant prior to starting the work. If nobody is home, the installer will complete the work and move on to the next installation.
How do I know if I already have one of the new meters?
You can call the office from 7:30am - 4:30 pm M-F and ask our staff.
Has my water rates increased because of the change?
No. Your water rate has not changed because of the new installation.
Has my bill gone up even if I’m using the same amount of water as before?
Not necessarily. In some cases, your bill may increase, but only if your current meter is under-registering usage. Whenever a new meter is installed, whether it’s a new smart meter or a manual meter, there is a chance your bill may increase. Many of the water meters in Deschutes Valley Water District’s service area are more than 15-20 years old, and at the end of their functioning life. As meters age, their accuracy begins to decline. The new meter will accurately reflect your consumption. All meters being installed are compliant with the Reduction of Lead in Drinking Water Act of 2014 and American Water Works Association standards.
Where is my water meter located?
Most water meters are located in front of the resident’s home near the driveway, but locations vary. If you would like to know more accurately where your water meter is located, you can call our office and we can give you a better idea of where to look. Keep in mind, your water meter is DVWD property and any modifications to the meter, the related fittings or the box can result in additional charges and/or a potential disruption of service.
When do I receive my bill?
New bills, starting September 2020, will be generated the first day of the month, and are due on the 15th of the same month. For payment and paperless billing options see our online payment portal.
Didn’t see an answer to your question?
Please contact our office at (541) 475-3849 or for more detailed information about the new meters themselves from the manufacturer (Kamstrup) click the following link:
Facts about remote reading via radio communication
Troubleshooting a leak with your smart meter
NEW SMART METERS
In July 2020, the District began replacing legacy meters with ultrasonic smart meters capable of transmitting meter readings remotely via radio signal. These new meters improve the quality and consistency of our readings, resulting in more accurate and timely reporting and billing. The new meters also provide leak detection capabilities. The new meters will also reduce the time needed to read each meter in person, reducing overall cost of our meter reading operations. These new meters allow the District to provide additional customer support and ensure accountability for this community’s essential water resources.
Updated: January 26, 2023
