AMI Customer Portal

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The Technology Behind Billing

MWRD completed installation of AMI water meters in the Murfreesboro water distribution system in June 2017. The new water meters (26,000+ in our system) are equipped with radio transmitters, a radio telemetry system, and software interface to our Customer Information and Billing systems at the MWRD office. The new system is more efficient, more accurate and customer friendly.

When tracking water usage using AMI, a customer’s consumption usually reaches the 100W & Leak Sensor Box. From there a signal is sent out to a fixed network which then distributes the information to a meter reader’s handheld, network software, and Itron Analytics. Then, an MWRD Back Room representative is made aware of the leak through customer account software such as GIS and CIS. 

Frequently Asked Questions About AMI

What is AMI? AMI stands for Advanced Metering Infrastructure. AMI is a meter system that uses automated, two-way radio communication between a smart utility meter and computer servers at your utility company. Murfreesboro Water Resources AMI uses wireless cellular technology to communicate meter readings to the department’s billing system. 

Why did we go to a new system? These new meters allow more efficient and accurate reading of meters for billing purposes. In addition, this system offers benefits to customers such as online access to consumption data, earlier leak detection, and water budgeting capabilities. 

Am I charged for this service? No. The meter and installation are at no cost to the customer. 

Did this upgrade affect my billing? Rates did not change due to this upgrade. However, older meters tend to be less accurate at measuring water used. Many meters in Murfreesboro were over 20 years old and were due for replacement. All new meters are tested at the factory (a percentage of the meters are also being tested at MWRD facilities) to ensure accuracy. New meters have measured more accurately and ensure fairness and equality for all customers by correctly measuring and billing residents and businesses. 

What does the AMI reading look like on my bill?  

What if I have questions or fear I have a leak? Contact the MWRD Customer Service office at 615-848-3209 to have representative complete a leak check at your residence or business. If a leak is detected, a Leak Adjustment may be applied to your bill.

How does the meter reading system work and how do I know you have my reading and not someone else’s? The radio-frequency (RF) transmitter device installed on your water meter is programmed to automatically send the meter reading once an hour. Each meter and transmitter has a unique identification number that will ensure that only your reading is assigned to your account. The meter reading information is delivered into the MWRD Customer Information System (CIS) for the customer service and billing department. 

How do you know that my reading is accurate? The new water meters have electronic digital registers that send a meter reading signal to the radio-frequency (RF) transmitter device. This system reduces any human error. 

How do I know if higher usage may be a result of a leak in my plumbing system? New, more accurate meter may detect small leaks that the previous meter did not. Customers should check faucets for small drips and toilet tanks for small leaks into the toilet bowl. 

Is the new meter’s radio transmitter a hazard in any way? No. The radio signal is on for less than one second when it transmits. The reading device meets all Federal Communications Commission requirements and the power level is far below a level of any risk. 

Does the equipment have a hazard in its interior? No. Only standard electronics and batteries are inside the equipment. 

Will the radio interfere with my television, cordless phone, or other electronic devices? No. The radio transmission will occur on a licensed frequency very different from those used by television signals, cordless phones, and other electronic devices. In addition, the transmissions last less than a few seconds each month.

Who should I call if I have a billing question resulting from the AMI Program? If you have any questions regarding your water bill, as always please call MWRD Customer Service at 615-848- 3209, Select option 2 (customer service) when prompted by the automated system.