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1. What is "AMI"?

AMI stands for "Advanced Metering Infrastructure." It is a method of using communication technology to read meters remotely without having to access each and every meter located inside meter boxes in the ground.

Advanced meter systems are quickly becoming the standard for utilities around the country. These new devices allow for more accurate and faster collection of water usage readings than the current manual method and improve safety conditions for City staff. Introducing automatic meter reading as the standard for Abilene is one of the ways we can better serve our customers and improve the overall efficiency of the utility department.

2. Will the electronic device on the meter interfere with other electronic equipment?

No. The radio transmission operates in compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations to avoid interference with other electronic devices.

3. Is the electronic device and data encrypted?

Yes. Data transmitted from the meter through the system is encrypted through the entire process.

4. How will usage be verified during the transfer from one meter to another?

Verification of the transfer will begin with photographic documentation and data recording. Before the existing meter is removed, the technician will take a photograph of the old meter dial and record the actual accumulated consumption numbers, as well as the serial number and property address. The new meter will then be installed.

The bar codes on the new meter and transmitter will be scanned linking that meter with the property address and customer account. Duplicate bar code stickers will be included with the other old meter data in each property file. Once the new meter is activated, usage will begin recording automatically.

5. Is there any special care or maintenance that I need to do to my new meter?

Your new meter does not require any maintenance by the homeowner. As before, the City will take care of all maintenance. Please note that your new meter has transmitting technology which automatically sends usage information to our offices. Damage to the transmitting equipment will send an alert to the Water Utilities department prompting an inspection. Please take precaution when caring for your lawn near the lid mounted transmitter.

Chapter 32 Utilities Section 32-6, Section 32-7, and Section 32-13 outline the City ordinance regarding utility property. Residents should not technically access the City's meter box, and if there is an issue or if you need access, please contact 325-676-6000. Tampering with the new meters can cause interruption of service or fees for damage.

6. What are the benefits of this water meter conversion?

The new Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system will provide customers the ability to see and manage their water consumption data in real time. Billing representatives at the Customer Service Center will also have access to real time usage data allowing them to answer questions and resolve billing issues quicker and more comprehensively.

Other benefits include customizable leak alerts, an interactive dashboard, and cost saving advice.

7. When can I access my water meter information online?

At this point in time, the City and Pedal Valves crews are working solely on the installation of the meters and data collection system. Once we've tested to insure hardware and software is working properly, we'll make the data system and all its resources available to the public. We do not currently have an estimate for when this will launch, but information will be provided when we do.

In the meantime, the newly installed water meters will work with our current system, and residents can expect water billing to continue as usual.

8. I still have questions. Where can I get additional information?

You can find more information on our Water Meter Replacement Project page, as well as a "What to Expect" video. We will continually update our website and social media outlets as we progress into new districts and neighborhoods. Check this page to find out what area we are currently servicing.

We are happy to answer any additional questions or concerns you may have. You can call our Water Meter Project Customer Care Line at 325-676-6311 or email Water Meter Project staff.