Water Meter Transmitter:
Old type water meter radio transmitter
New type water meter radio transmitter
The top section of the water meter houses a low power radio transmitter that sends water usage data to meter reading trucks. This data is used to compute water bills. These devices use batteries that are coming to the end of their useful life of ten years.
The Bureau of Utilities will be replacing the radio transmitter with new units that will be more reliable and have a twenty year life span.
Questions can be answered by calling the Bureau of Utilities 6:30AM to 3:00 PM at 410-313-4980.
Bureau of Utilities - Water Meter Division
The Meter Division reads over 78,000 water accounts for billing purposes. Of those meters, 70% are installed inside a residence or commercial building. Remaining meters are installed in a meter vault that is in the ground, near the property line.
HIGH WATER USAGE INFORMATION
Check for leaks -Before contacting a plumber
Did You Know?
A running toilet is the most common cause for increased water usage.
Perform a simple test on ALL toilets:
- Add food coloring to tank of all toilets
- Let coloring sit for at least an hour
- Check to see if water color in bowl has changed
If the color of the water in the bowl has changed, repairs are needed.
Other things to check….
- Water heater leakage around the tank
- Exterior hose connection leaks
- Standing water on the property may indicate a leak of underground piping, particularly during dry weather
Other Reasons Could Be….
- An increase in household members/guests
- Filling or topping off swimming pool and/or other water toys
- Additional time spent at home during summer or holidays
- Lawn or garden watering
- Sprinkler or irrigation use
- Power washing
The division responds to inquiries regarding:
Low/ High water pressure inside the home. When a resident experiences a pressure problem it may be due to a faulty pressure regulator valve (PRV). This valve controls the main water pressure coming into the house. It may be the PRV causing the noisy meter/ banging pipe problem as well. This concern should be directed to a plumber, the Meter Division is responsible for the water meter only:
Water leaks from the meter. Stopped and noisy meter related issues. It is important to know the location of the inside water shut-off valve. Having access to this valve so that it can be closed, would help minimize damage in the event of a broken water pipe and allow for general plumbing repairs. Water dripping from leaking plumbing fixtures can be costly, causing a sudden increase in water and sewer bills and should be addressed as soon as possible. A leak of one drop per second can waste up to 2400 gallons of water a year. A leaking toilet can waste as much as 200 gallons a day.
The Bureau of Utilities' "Water Only Submeters Policy for Commercial and Industrial Water/Sewer Accounts" , including the Submeter Permit Application Form , is now available online. Submeters are not permitted for residential use.
Please see the Submeters Policy page for additional information.
