Questions about SPU’s new water meter installations? Find your answers here.
WHY IS SPU CHANGING OUT METERS NOW?
SPU is implementing a new metering system that will greatly improve our process for reading meters, managing our infrastructure and system needs, and providing our customers with detailed information about their utility usage.
WHY IS THIS METER CHANGE “MANDATORY”?
To fully utilize the benefits of this system and experience all of the associated cost savings, all meters must be exchanged to effectively work with this technology. Changing all meters eliminates any gaps in system performance and it also prevents the expense of manually managing “one-offs” outside of the automated system, which is good for all customers.
DOES MY WATER METER NEED TO BE CHANGED IF IT IS WORKING FINE?
The simple answer is “yes” for the reasons stated above. However, in newly-constructed neighborhoods, and at their determination, SPU may leave an existing water meter installed and will wire a new communication module to this meter. In either case installers will need access to SPU-owned equipment within your property.
WHAT IF I DON’T WANT MY METER EXCHANGED?
Meters are the property of SPU. SPU has the right to access our equipment as necessary during reasonable hours for maintenance, replacement and/or inspection. Reference the SPU Fee Schedule (under Rates) for Denied Access to SPU Equipment.
WHO IS MIDWEST TESTING AND WHY ARE THEY CHANGING MY WATER METER?
Due to the large scope of changing all meters within our service territory, SPU has enlisted the services of certified third-party installers to complete the installations. This will allow the installation process to be completed in a timely manner while other utility projects can continue as normal with SPU resources.
HOW LONG DOES THE INSTALLATION TAKE?
The installation process takes anywhere from 10-45 minutes depending on if your water meter is easily accessible, both valves are in working condition, or the size of the meter (commercial meters take longer then residential meters).
WHEN WILL THE INSTALLER ARRIVE?
Appointments are scheduled in 2-hour windows. Your scheduled time is the start of the window. Example: If you select 2:30 p.m. for your appointment, the installer will be there any time between 2:30pm-4:30pm., but as early as 2:30. Once the installer arrives the installation can take 10 minutes or more to complete (see above about installation time).
WHAT APPOINTMENT TIMES DO YOU OFFER?
Standard appointment windows are Monday-Thursday, 8am-10am, 10am-12pm, 12:30pm-2:30pm, 2:30pm-4:30pm and 4:30pm-6:30pm. If these times do not work, please call the appointment line at 763-274-9109.
WHERE IS MY METER LOCATED?
In most cases, for residential customers, your water meter is going to be located in your basement utility room. Typically, next to your water heater or softener. It can also be behind a false wall, or in a crawl space. If you are unable to locate your meter before installation, you may call SPU at 952-233-1503 for assistance. It is important to know where your meter is located to check your shut off valves are in working condition.
I HAVE TWO METERS AT MY LOCATION. HOW DO I SCHEDULE APPOINTMENTS FOR BOTH?
If you have two meters at your location, you only need to schedule one appointment for both! Please indicate when scheduling online that you have two meters at your location in the notes section. If you are scheduling different locations (example your house and your business or other family members home) its easiest to schedule with our appointment line. Please call 763-274-9109 for help scheduling multiple locations.
MY VALVES ARE NOT WORKING OR ARE LEAKING. WHAT DO I NEED TO DO NOW?
After assessing your water shut off valves, if they are not working (will not turn) or leaking, you will need to have these repaired or replaced before the new meter installation. Valves are the homeowner’s responsibility. To repair/replace defective valves, you can schedule a plumber or make the repairs yourself. If you feel the valves are not defective (might leak, but still work), you can operate them yourself during the time of the installation. If you do need to replace the valves located before the meter (from the outside service line into your property), you will need to schedule a curb-stop with SPU. Please call 952-233-1503.
WHAT IS MY RESPONSIBILITY AS A HOMEOWNER?
It is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain the water pipes and valves within their homes. Old valves may need to be replaced in order for the new meter to be installed. Refer to the graphics and information included in the mailing.
