Let’s talk about water meters! Simply put, a water meter is the device we use to track the volume of water each customer uses on a daily basis. As with any finely tuned mechanism, water meters can begin to wear out after years of continuous use. In fact, regulations actually require us to replace a property’s meter after a set amount of time. That’s why upgrading our customers’ water meters is a necessary step to maintain compliance, ensure billing accuracy, and empower customers with better tools to manage their water usage. 

Why Are Upgrades Necessary? 

Our Water Tariff, as approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, requires water meters to be replaced within a designated timeframe to ensure accuracy. For smaller meters typically found in residential properties, this period is 20 years. For larger meters often used in commercial settings, the limit is 8 years. Meters that exceed these lifespans may produce inaccurate readings and lead to billing concerns. 

The new, advanced meters we are currently installing include automated technology to transmit water usage data down to the tenth of a gallon directly back to Pittsburgh Water. This upgraded technology allows for more accurate billing based on actual consumption rather than estimates. It also gives customers the ability to monitor daily usage and set up notifications for leak detection alerts through our free Customer Advantage Portal. These features can help you better manage water use and avoid surprises on your Pittsburgh Water bill. 

Be On the Lookout! 

Pittsburgh Water has a structured notification process to proactively contact customers whose meters are due to be replaced. Our outreach typically begins with a letter, phone call, or door hanger requesting the customer schedule an appointment. Because these replacements are mandated by our tariff, a prompt response is important!  

If Pittsburgh Water receives no reply and the property is owner-occupied, a 10-day termination notice is then mailed, followed by a 3-day shut posting and eventual termination if the property owner fails to respond with access to the water meter at any point in the notification process.  

For tenant-occupied properties, a 37-day certified termination letter is sent to the property owner. If the owner does not respond within seven days to schedule service, the property is posted with a 30-day shut notice, after which termination may proceed if the property owner or tenant fails to respond with access to the water meter at any point in the notification process. 

Customers who have meters they believe to be nearing replacement age, meters that produce estimated readings, or those showing zero consumption for multiple months should schedule a service appointment for inspection or replacement.