Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project
Project Overview
The City of Fargo has partnered with Core & Main and VEPO Metering to implement a city-wide water meter upgrade to an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system. This upgrade includes the replacement of all the water meters in the city of Fargo. The AMI project will improve the City's water metering system and will allow City staff and customers to better manage water resources. The project will exchange the majority of the City's aging water meters with new meters that provide timely water usage data, improved leak detection and enhanced customer service.
The replacement project begins in September 2024 and will continue through 2026. All work will occur in phases based on property locations. Controlled mailings will be issued to customers based on strategically planned phases and inventory availability.
What is AMI?
AMI collects, measures, communicates and analyzes water use data from treatment through delivery to customers.
- A customer's water meter measures and records the customer's water usage.
- The hourly usage data is transmitted to the water utility and is updated on a regular, short interval.
- The water usage data is available to customers through an online dashboard or application accessible on computers, smartphones, and tablets.
Benefits of Water Meter Replacement
- Customers and City staff will have 24/7 access to water usage information. Staff will be able to communicate online with water meters for real-time reads. Customers will be able to view consumption history to better manage their water use and potentially reduce water/sewer billings.
- The new AMI water meter system provides on-demand readings, compared to once a month.
- The AMI software detects water leaks on the customer's side of the meter so they can be repaired quickly. Usage alerts can also be set up to be automatically sent to the property owner when continuous water flow is identified to prevent property damage resulting from undetected leaks.
- The new meters are highly accurate and have a 20-year warranty on parts/accuracy.
- Account transfer and shutoff readings are real-time.
- City employees who currently conduct manual reads will be able to perform other services. Customer Service staff calls will decline as customers transition to using the available online information.
What Property Owners Can Expect
Replacement will occur in phases based on property locations.
Property owners will receive a “Notice to Schedule Appointment” from VEPO Metering prior to replacement beginning in their area. Once notice is received, property owners will need to contact VEPO Metering to schedule their meter replacement appointment. VEPO will also place door hangers on residents front doors as a reminder to schedule an appointment.
VEPO technicians will arrive to your home during your scheduled appointment in a marked vehicle with proper identification.
View the Zone Map here.
Reminders:
- The technician will need access to the inside of your home. The property owner (or their representative, 18 years of age or older) must be present during the appointment.
- Know where your water meter is located in your home. Water meters are typically found in basements, utility closets, cabinets or crawlspaces.
- Make sure your water meter is easily accessible to the technician, with nothing blocking their access, and that there is enough space for the technician to work.
- Installation will take approximately 30 minutes to complete. During your appointment, they will remove your old water meter and install a new water meter.
- We kindly ask that you secure your pet(s) and refrain from allowing them to interact with the technician during the installation appointment.
- Participation is mandatory for all City of Fargo customers.
- There is no cost to the customer for this upgrade.
FAQ
Why is my meter being replaced?
Just like any other appliance in a home, the water meter system becomes aged and inefficient. The implementation of the new system will help The City of Fargo with the collection of meter readings, provide customers with a better understanding of their water bills, and identify leaks that are responsible for much of the system’s treated water loss. Customers will have more control over their water bills and The City of Fargo will be able to improve service and operate at a greater level of efficiency. With the newest technology available, the new meter system will reduce water loss, optimize operations, and meet increased water demand.
Who is involved in the project?
The City of Fargo has contracted with Core & Main and VEPO Metering to install new Sensus water meters in every home and business in the city.
Do I have to pay for the new meter?
No, there is no cost to the property owner for this upgrade. However, failure to comply may result in surcharges and/or suspended water service. This is a mandatory upgrade to the City’s water infrastructure.
Who will be replacing my meter?
The City of Fargo has contracted with VEPO Metering and Sensus, a Xylem brand, to replace all water meters in the city. The VEPO technicians will be clearly identifiable with a uniform, name badge, and vehicle markings. The new meters are distributed through Sensus, and are manufactured by Xylem.
Where is my water meter?
Most water meters are located indoors, either in a basement, crawlspace, utility room, or even a garage. The City’s contractor will be replacing the current meter with the upgraded meter. Technicians will need clear access to the meter, with no blockages. They will not be allowed to move any materials that may be blocking meter access.
How will I know when the technicians will be at my property, and will I need to be there?
Property owners will receive a “Notice to Schedule Appointment” from VEPO metering prior to replacement beginning in their area. Once notice is received, property owners will need to contact VEPO metering to schedule their meter replacement. Appointments are required, and a person 18 years of age or older must be available during the appointment. VEPO metering technicians will arrive to the scheduled appointment in a marked vehicle and will have proper identification.
How long does this take, and will my water service be interrupted?
Installation usually takes about 30 minutes depending on meter location, and connecting the new meter to the interface unit. Water service will be interrupted for approximately 15 minutes while new connections are being made. Once the water service is restored, the installer will attempt to purge any trapped air in the service line. If some air is left in the line, the resident may notice a sputtering sound the first time they operate a plumbing fixture. This should only last a few seconds, and will not cause any harm. The first few gallons of water may be discolored, they should simply let the fixture run for a minute to clear.
What is the technology that reads my meter and sends it? Is it safe?
The new meters use wireless radio frequencies - just like a cell phone, wireless Internet, or cable TV - to send and receive information. The meters and communication network meet all federal safety standards and codes.
I receive my water from Cass Rural Water District. Do I need to have a new water meter installed?
Properties south of 52nd Avenue South in Fargo that receive water from Cass Rural Water District will not have a new water meter installed.
The City of Fargo thanks citizens for their cooperation during this water meter upgrade project. Please contact Public Works with any further questions or concerns.