Smart Water Meters

AMI stands for Advanced Metering Infrastructure.  It is a method of using communication technology to read meters remotely without having to access the meter located in meter boxes in the ground. 

There is no additional cost to the customer for the new system. However, customers may see an increase in their monthly water use due to old meters inaccurately measuring water consumption as they age. The new meters ensure accurate measurement, billing only for the water used. Additionally, customers gain tools to monitor and manage water consumption effectively.

Digital water meter readings are encrypted and sent through an automated network, using a private radio frequency (RF) channel, from the digital water meter to the utility. The meter data display looks similar to the numbers on a car odometer and has nine digits. The digits on the meter represent the number of gallons consumed down to the 1/100th of a gallon. The last two digits can be used as leak indicators to detect water flow through the meter.

The water meters that are being replaced are not currently compatible with AMI and must be upgraded in order to adapt to the new system. Water meters are necessary to determine how much water is used by residents/businesses. The new digital water meters are designed to help customers understand their usage and save money on their water bills. 

Once the Customer Portal goes live,  customers will be able monitor their water usage more closely to manage and reduce costs associated with their water bills. Some of the many benefits customers gain from the new technology include:

• The ability to track water usage and investigate possible leaks or continuous water use such as a running garden hose or leaky water pipe.
• Precise meter readings and water usage data in near real time, allowing for identification of high usage and suspected leaks.
• More frequent meter reading available to customers, as opposed to monthly readings, which allows you to make necessary adjustments sooner to reduce and manage costs.
• Improved customer service options including representatives who can guide you through your water usage portal and suggest cost savings tips based on your past usage patterns and trends.

The project was financed through the City’s Capital Improvement Project funds. Customers will not incur any additional cost for the digital water meters.

The installation technicians will begin work across the city starting in April 2025. Expect to see staff from the Kyle Water Utility and our contractor, DB Utility, working on meters in your area. The meter replacement service will take place between 8 AM and 5 PM, Monday through Friday. Look out for a door hanger letting you know your meter has been upgraded! 

 If your water meter requires replacement, you will experience an interruption in service – typically 15 to 30 minutes. The installation technician will notify you in advance of a brief water outage during the meter replacement service. Technicians will also be performing work at the meter box that will not disrupt water service.

No. Your meter is accessible from the exterior of the dwelling and you are not required to be present during the installation service. The installation technician will attempt to notify any occupants of the water outage prior to temporarily disconnecting your water. You are required to ensure the meter is free and clear of any debris or obstructions that may prevent the technician from replacing the meter. If the meter is located within a fenced area that contains animals, we ask that you secure the animals for the safety of the animal and technician.

When your water service is restored after installation, you may experience a brief period of air in the lines or discolored water. In most cases, running cold water for a minimum of 10-minutes will clear the lines of air or discoloration. In the event of prolonged air or discoloration, please contact the Water Utilities Department during regular business hours at at 512-262-3024 or after hours or holidays call 512-787-9896 to correct the issue.

Data from the meters is encrypted and sent through a safe and secure network to the utility databases. The meter system transmits only the water meter readings, the meter identification number, and diagnostic information to verify that the automated meter equipment is operating correctly. Only key authorized utility personnel, such as customer service representatives can access your account if needed.

Yes. Digital water meters operate at much lower levels of radio frequencies than cell phones, microwaves, wireless routers and even baby monitors.

No. The radio transmission operates in compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations to avoid interference with other electronic devices.

Please contact the Water Utilities Department during business hours at 512-262-3024 or after hours or holidays call 512-787-9896 for assistance.