Water Meter Register Replacement

Water Meter Registers

What is a water meter register?

A water meter register is a part of the water metering system used by Saint Paul Regional Water Services to track and report the amount of water used by a household or business. The water meter register is a lot like the mileage odometer in a car. It keeps a running total of all the water that has passed through the meter.

Why is my water meter register being replaced?

All water meter registers have a lifespan, and replacing yours will allow SPRWS to accurately determine use and bill appropriately. In addition, the upgraded water meter register will improve the ability to collect frequent and accurate water usage data to improve billing, leak detection, and water resource management.

Program Information

This section explains how to schedule and prepare for the installation of your new water meter register. It also addresses common questions and concerns.

How will I know when this system is going to be installed in my home?

You will receive a letter from Saint Paul Regional Water Services inviting you to schedule your installation appointment. Once you receive this letter, you can set up your appointment either by calling SPRWS or by scheduling online. Please wait to call until you get the letter. Installations will be carried out in stages and organized by geographic zones to ensure efficiency.

What will the replacement process look like and how should I prepare?

The water meter register is located inside your home, typically in the basement. An SPRWS employee will remove the old water meter register and install the new water meter register. The new water meter will require a transmitter to be wired to the meter and mounted nearby. This transmitter will improve SPRWS's ability to collect frequent and accurate water usage data to improve billing, leak detection, and water resource management.

Before we replace your water meter register, here’s what you need to do:

1. Adult Presence: Someone 18 years or older must be home during the entire installation process.
2. Clear the Area: The water meter is usually about a foot above your basement floor, but it could also be in a crawl space, a pit, or a utility room. Please move any items or clutter away from the meter to make room for our staff to work.
3. Safety Measures: Our technicians will stick to strict safety rules and guidelines while they replace your water meter register. We ask that you keep pets away from the work area and maintain a safe distance to ensure everyone's safety.

By following these steps, you’ll help make sure that the installation goes smoothly and safely.

How long will it take to get my water meter register replaced?

A typical replacement takes about 1 hour.

When will this work be performed?

The water meter register replacement project began in December 2023 and is expected to take seven years.

Will my water service be interrupted during the installation of the new register?

No. A typical replacement will not require your water service to be interrupted.

Are there any potential health concerns with the radio signals?

Studies made on low-power radio frequency (RF) transmissions have revealed no negative health impacts.

What information will be transmitted?

The units transmit meter readings, identification, and diagnostic information.

Is my account information and personal data secure?

Yes, as there is no personal information transmitted. This equipment does not monitor how many people are in the house or any personal activity. It is only capable of collecting the reading from the water meter and transmitting it to the receiver.