Meet the Meter logo
Meet the Meter logo

In an effort to continually provide efficient, reliable service to our customers, SJWD is beginning to install advanced metering systems that transfer data wirelessly.

Advanced metering systems are quickly becoming the standard for utilities across the country. In an effort to better serve our customers, SJWD is upgrading to this technology — one of the first water utilities in the Upstate to do so.

These meters offer a number of benefits for both SJWD and our customers, including more detailed water usage information and the ability to address issues, such as leaks, more quickly and effectively. These new meters allow SJWD to operate more effectively and pass on benefits to customers, including the following:

  • Improved customer service and support
  • Fewer estimated bills
  • Detailed hourly usage data
  • Data to help resolve billings and usage questions
  • Faster service for customers who open and close accounts
  • Reduced operating costs
  • Better data allowing staff to plan, construct and optimize the water distribution system

When will my home or business be upgraded?

In accordance with our strategic plan, SJWD began the initial rollout of advanced meter installations in early 2019 and will continue until each customer is upgraded—a process that will take an estimated four years.

The latest scheduling information will be regularly posted at this page and facebook.com/sjwdwater/. Additionally, customers with questions about when their homes or business will be upgraded are encouraged to email sjwdservice@sjwd.com or call SJWD Customer Service at 864-439-4423.

What can I expect when my meter is changed?

In most cases, the transition will be completely transparent and will have minimal effect for customers. The work will typically be performed during the normal working hours of Monday-Thursday, 7:15AM-5:15PM.

Your water service will be interrupted during installation, but in most cases, the meter can be replaced in less than 30 minutes. If a longer shut-down is necessary, the process will be coordinated with the customer.

If I notice a problem after installation, whom should I contact?

After installation, a door hanger will be placed on your door for tips and contact information. If you notice a problem after installation, please email sjwdservice@sjwd.com or call SJWD Customer Service at 864-439-4423.

Will I be charged for this new service?

No, there is no additional cost for the new meter. The funding for this technology is incorporated in the water bill you already receive.

Will the new device affect my bill?

Installation of the advanced meter will not affect your bill. A new meter is more accurate than older meters, so your bill may change to reflect the accurate measurement of your water use.

FAQs

Who is installing the meters?

SJWD has contracted with US Bronco Services, Inc. for the installation of an Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system. Advanced metering technology enables the wireless transmission of water meter readings directly to SJWD from regional collectors located on existing water towers and antennas in our service area.

This innovative system will collect multiple reads per day, allowing for better detection of continuous consumption, closer meter reading and billing dates, and improved customer service.

What are the benefits to customers?

Currently, customers only receive information about their water consumption when their monthly bills arrive. Under the new system, SJWD can provide detailed consumption reports (hourly readings), and in the future, a customer portal is planned to provide you access to the readings.

The benefits of such information include:

  • Being able to make smarter decisions regarding service and usage;
  • The ability to detect leaks sooner;
  • Greater problem-solving capabilities;
  • Improved customer engagement and service.

What are the benefits to SJWD?

Advanced metering supports SJWD’s commitment to preserving and protecting our precious water resources. These meters will greatly enhance our ability to detect and stop leaks quickly, and by providing up-to-date water usage data, customers can improve their efforts to conserve.

Other benefits include:

  • Improve customer relationship;
  • Reduce labor and travel for meter reading;
  • Improve non-revenue water analysis;
  • Improve safety and security.

What is AMI?

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.

How does AMI work?

SJWD has chosen a fixed based network that provides two-way communication from the meter box to strategically located base stations. The meter transceivers collect and transmit meter data at regular intervals to the base stations.

Is the AMI technology safe?

The new meters will not negatively affect your health. The wireless portions of the system will be operated per Federal Communications Commission rules, and will not interfere with other radio frequencies in the area. The transmitters use one-quarter of the power of a cell phone transmission. Exposure to radio waves from smart meters is tiny compared to cell phones transmissions. The amount of exposure to radio waves decreases with the square of the distance from the radio source and the total transmission time is only 15 seconds per day.