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1. Project Timeline

Begin installs in Summer 2021. Installs will be sequenced by billing cycles and progress throughout the Village. Expected completion is March of 2022.  

2. What is AMR?

AMR stands for Automated Meter Reading.  The Village of Hanover Park is replacing existing water meters with new meters that utilize AMR technology to remotely read customer meters and relay the data to the Villages’ Billing Office, providing timely and reliable reading without having to gain access to your property.  The Village will no longer have to drive the entire town and dispatch employees to read meters.   

3. How does Automated Meter Reading (AMI) Work?

A small box, or transmitter, is installed on the exterior of your house or business near your water meter. It is connected to your new water meter inside your home, and transmits a radio signal to a data collector. Your meter reading is then transmitted to the Village instantaneously and hourly. Each meter has a unique identification number that ensures only your reading is assigned to your account. This system reduces the need for manual meter readings, catches any leaks sooner, and is far more accurate. 

4. What To Expect

When Siemens is scheduling your cycle/area you will receive a postcard asking you to schedule an appointment. Use the Verification Code provided to you on the post card to schedule online. If you fail to make an appointment, you could face your water being shut off.  

5. Why is my water meter being replaced?

Water meters must be replaced every 15 to 20 years. The Village is investing in its infrastructure and upgrading technology to an Automated Meter Reading system that will provide enhanced customer service, including quicker detection of water leaks in the home, and other benefits. 

6. Is there anything I need to do?

Yes, you must schedule a time to have the meter replaced.  This is easy to do with very convenient hours.  However, the best times are limited, and you should schedule your appointment as soon as you get a post card in the mail.  It will make the process seamless. 

7. What is involved with a typical installation?

The Village has hired Siemens to install your new water meter. Siemens will schedule an appointment with you at a convenient time for you.  Siemens personnel will need access to wherever the meter is located.  It could be in your basement, utility room, crawl space, garages, etc. An adult (minimum of 18 years old) must be present while we work inside the premises. Please make sure that there are no obstructions around your meter that may hamper access to the meter. 

Under normal circumstances, the installation will take approximately 30 minutes. Momentary water service interruptions will occur to change out the meter. 

Siemens employees will provide proper identification when installing your meters. 

8. Will my water bill increase?

Your water rate will not change as part of this project. You will be billed for the actual water used. The new metering system will measure your water consumption accurately for 20 years. 

9. How do I know that my reading is accurate?

Each radio frequency device has a unique identification number, which is transmitted along with the meter reading. The unique number is compared to your account record to ensure a match.  This reading is deemed more accurate than visually reading the meter. 

10. Does Automated Meter Reading (AMR) have any other benefits?

Yes. The new meters use a different technology that will keep the meters accurate longer. The AMR will also eliminate the need for manually reading meters, except for periodical maintenance or replacement of system components, when needed. This allows the Village to be more efficient and save money by preventing recording errors, and minimizing wear and tear on Village vehicles.   

11. Will the transmitter radio frequency interfere with my television or phones?

No, the radio transmission operates in compliance with FCC regulations to avoid interference with other electronic devices. 

12. Will my information be secure?

Yes, only meter consumption data and meter numbers are transmitted. Personal customer information is not loaded into the transmitter and therefore, cannot be transmitted.