Madison Water Utility has begun installing new meter reading technology in every home and business in the city. This “Project H2O” will automate water meter reading capabilities through a fixed-base radio network to increase accuracy and provide customers with the timely information they need to better manage their water usage.
According to MWU General Manager Tom Heikkinen, “Our current Read-o-Matic meter registers, first introduced to the market in 1958, are obsolete and no longer being supported by the manufacturer, so this technology implementation is necessary. It will be a catalyst for significant improvements in water efficiency and customer service. “ Similar meter systems are already in use in Milwaukee and are common throughout the country.
When installations are complete, customers will be able to monitor their daily water usage online and sign up for leak alerts through an iOS or Android app. Measuring system water loss more accurately will enable MWU to optimize infrastructure improvements and future capacity planning. The new system will also enable the utility to switch from a six-month billing cycle to the more common monthly billing that most other utilities use. Usage will be shown in gallons rather than cubic feet, making bills easier to understand.
- Project H20 Factsheet: https://www.cityofmadison.com/water/programs/projectH2O/documents/FactSheet.pdf
- Meter Installation Schedule: https://www.cityofmadison.com/water/programs/projectH2O/ to find out when meter installations will be occurring in their area
- Informational Open Houses on Project H2O will be held in September; more information on dates and locations will be sent out