About Our City Media RoomEmploymentVacation GuideContact Us
September 08, 2010Automatic Meter Reading <<
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  



New Automatic Meter Reading for More Efficient
Utility Billing and Improved Customer Service

Door Hanger

Automatic Meter Reading, also known as AMR, is currently being implemented by the City of Dunedin Water Division and Utility Billing Division. Your AMR device will be installed in your current potable and reclaimed meters boxes at no additional cost to you. You will continue to be billed for only that water which you use. Bills will not be estimated.

You will know that your meter has been Meter Magnetupdated when you find the blue door hanger notice (pictured left), hanging on your door.

The Water Department has divided the City limits into thirteen installation zones. New AMR devices will be installed one zone at a time until all Dunedin residence have been updated. Our goal is to have all AMR installations completed by the 2009 Fiscal Year.

Click to see AMR Installation Zone Map...

Below we have listed some common questions and answers that usually arise when a new system such as this is implemented. If you have additional questions or concerns that have not been addressed here, please contact our office directly at 727-298-3100.

Also available for convenience, is a special Meter Magnet that you can place on your refrigerator. The magnet will display your meter reading and you'll be able to track how much water you actually use for showers, dishes and laundry. Limited supplies of Meter Magnets are available from the Water Division.


Frequently Asked Questions

How does the AMR work? Automated Meter Reading
A tiny radio transmitter attached to your water meter sends radio signals of your metered water consumption. A meter reader will drive by your home and the reading will be transmitted to a computer in the vehicle. It will later be processed in the office of Utility Billing. At most times, the radio transmitter is asleep, in low energy state. As the meter reader drives by, the radio transmitter wakes up and transmits the signal.

When will an AMR be installed at my property?
The conversion of over 15,000 meters will take place over a three year period and be completed in 2008.

How will I know when the AMR is going to be installed?
The Dunedin Water Division will leave a door hanger on your door after the installation is complete. You do not need to be home during the installation. Your property will be restored to its present condition.

Will this system interfere with any other electronic system in my home?
No, it will not interfere with televisions, garage door openers, stereos, hearing aids, clocks, telephones, or other electronic components in your home.

Where is my water meter?
Your water meter is located in the ground in a concrete box near the sidewalk or curb.

How often will you read my meter?
We read meters once per month.

What if I need a meter reading between regular readings?
Call Utility Billing at (727) 298-3024.

What if I disagree with the reading?
Call Utility Billing at (727) 298-3024 for a verification.

My meter reader often answers my questions. How will I get answers to my question if all the meter reading is done automatically?
You may call the City of Dunedin Water Division at (727) 298-3100 for more information about the AMR program. For billing questions, please contact the City of Dunedin Utility Billing Division at (727) 298-3024.

What are the other benefits to an AMR?

  • Reduction in amount of meter reading time
  • Easier identification of customer leaks
  • Ability to provide detailed Water Use Reports to customers
  • Upgrades and replacements to existing parts related to your meter will be done during the AMR installation process

How do I know you have my reading and not someone else's?
Each transmitter has a unique transmission code that allows us to distinguish individual customers.

When will I receive my bill?
You will continue to receive your bill on the same monthly schedule.

How accurate is the AMR?
These state of the art water meters have electronic digital registers, which verifies the meter reading before it is sent to the transmitting unit. This reading is deemed more accurate than visually reading the meter.

Can AMR detect leaks in my plumbing system?
Through the AMR device, we will be alerted of any meter that runs continuously for 24 hours. This may indicate a leak in your system, and we will contact you if this occurs.

How long will the meter installation take?
Under normal circumstances, the installation will take about 30 minutes. The water will have to be turned off for about 5 to 10 minutes until the meter is changed. Please be advised that there may be some trapped air in your water line or slight discoloration of your water. This will clear up after running your water for a few moments. You may hear some noise as the air exits spigots and fixtures. This is normal.

Whom should I call if I would like more information about the AMR Program itself?
You may call the City of Dunedin Water Division at (727) 298-3100 for more information about the AMR program. For billing questions, please contact the City of Dunedin Utility Billing Division at (727) 298-3024.