Do you actually read all of the meters?
Yes we read all meters on a quarterly basis.
How long does it take to read all the meters?
The District is divided up into 7 “books”, typically each book has about 500 accounts. I read two “books” most month’s billing, reading 3 for that one odd month out. Depending on the weather and emergency interruptions, I spend about 4 to 5 days per month reading meters.
What are the problems you encounter reading meters?
First the environmental problems; as you can imagine, poor weather, snow bankings and—at a few accounts—dogs. These present the usual problems. As far as technical problems affecting reading, the new meters are read with a handheld interrogator which electronically accesses the data from the meter. As long as the wire between the outside touchpad and meter are intact the reading is recorded quickly and easily.
Are the meters tested for accuracy?
Yes, all new and rebuilt meters are tested to verify that they meet the standards for new meters set by the MPUC.
What are some of the other duties you do at the District?
As a licensed water operator for the District, I can be expected to assist and work with others in both the normal and emergency operation of the District. The list of duties for a water operator is quite diverse and far-reaching. I may be checking the wells we use as the source of supply, repairing a broken water main, testing backflow preventers or meeting with customers to answer their questions. There really is never a dull moment at a water district!