New Automated Wireless Water Meter

San Francisco is rolling out new Automated Water Meters that use a radio signal to collect water consumption data and transmit them from customers to the their billing system without the need for physical field visits and manual meter reading.  These wireless water meters are being rolled out in other cities nationwide.

The upside is that customers can monitor water use and detect leaks faster than possible with the existing manually-read water meters. Imagine getting an email when your water usage is double normal.  No shocking bills!

Another wireless source! More radiation? They have addressed that area at least. Here is how they describe the system:

“The meter readings are sent through the automated network using a private RF channel from the meter box to the data collectors, and using a cellular data network from the data collectors to the AMI computer.  The signals used to transmit data from Automated Water Meters are much weaker than those from many everyday devices, such as garage openers and remote controls. In addition to being very low power, Automated Water Meters transmit radio signals only once every 6 hours, with each transmission lasting less than one-tenth of a second.

The SFPUC has partnered with the Department of Public Health (DPH) to complete an evaluation of RF transmission levels associated with the Automated Water Meter System.  This evaluation confirms that the signals used in Automated Water Meter technology are well below government limits with respect to RF exposure levels. ”

Accuracy issues?  They claim that the manufacturer has tested them to industry standards and that San Francisco with also randomly test 10% of units. 5% of automated meters after installation will also be audited for accuracy.

Related posts:

1. PG&E Wireless Smart Meter Controversy
2. Extending your wireless router’s range – Green Wireless Router – D-Link DIR-655 Extreme N Wireless router
3. Wireless Network (Wi-Fi) Health and Safety Advice
4. How to Check your Home for a Water Leak
5. Microsoft Hohm Energy Saving Website
6. Save Money with Water Filtration – Non Green Bottled Water
7. Reducing a Lawn, Grass, Garden’s Water Use – Green Weed Prevention
8. Bottled Water Toxicity and Money Waste

Posted on June 16th, 2010
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