FAQ Topic: Public Works

What are the benefits of AMI?

AMI benefits both customers and the City water utility. Customers can easily access their water consumption data which is updated four times per day, helping them address questions about their usage, detect potential leaks early, reduce surprise water bills and help reduce water use. The AMI system reduces operating costs for meter reading and billing … Continued

Is AMI technology a wise investment?

Yes. The City evaluated AMI and found that the return on investment will save money for the City Water Utility over time, which in turn helps minimize water rates. AMI also improves customer service, and helps customers better understand their water use and costs so that they can take steps to improve water conservation efforts.

How does AMI work?

Your new water meter will include a cellular transmitter that will automatically send water usage data from your meter to the City’s billing system. Once your water meter is replaced, it will become part of the City’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure and your water meter will then be read remotely. The data will be stored in … Continued

Is my account information secure?

Yes. The AMI system only transmits the water meter readings, the meter identification number and diagnostic information to verify the equipment is operating correctly. Personal customer information is not transmitted. For additional security, the data is encrypted and transmitted over a secure cellular network.

Do the AMI communications devices meet Radio Frequency (RF) limits?

Yes. The cellular transmitters used for each meter are required to meet Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radio Frequency limits. The signals used to transmit data from meters are much weaker than those from many everyday devices, such as cell phones, wireless internet routers, and baby monitors. In addition to being very low power, the meters … Continued

Will my water bill increase?

Installation of the AMI meter upgrade is being funded through current rates. After the upgrade, you might see an increase because the new meters record consumption more accurately than the old meters. As water meters age, they tend to run slower and may not measure all the water going through them. Many of the existing … Continued

How will I be able to identify the authorized contractor?

Concord Utility Services is the contractor who will be performing the field work on this AMI project, including the pre-installation audit and water meter replacement. Concord will use their own vehicles which will have their company logo, and all field staff will have uniforms and identification badges. Concord personnel will never ask you for personal … Continued

What can I expect when my water meter is replaced?

Generally, meters will be replaced during standard working hours which are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You will receive advance notice to confirm the date of your scheduled replacement. You do not need to be home when your meter is being replaced. On your scheduled replacement day: • A Concord Utility … Continued

Close window