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FAQs

What is Clear Reads?

Clear Reads is Cleveland Water’s project to install Automated Meter Reading (AMR) technology across the entire service area. The project will replace or modify water meters with state of the art equipment that will allow us to obtain meter readings without coming to your home or business. AMR technology allows improved service while being cost-effective.

How does AMR technology work?

Each upgraded water meter will be connected to a small device (Endpoint) that is installed on the exterior of your home or business. The Endpoint will read the meter several times each day and send a low-powered radio signal to electronic collectors throughout Cleveland Water’s service area. These collectors will provide all of the information needed about water usage, eliminating the need for meters to be read manually.

How will AMR benefit me?

AMR minimizes bills based on estimated reads, and ensures that your bill is based on actual usage. In addition, AMR improves accuracy – eliminating the potential for human error in meter reading – and can help to identify any irregularities in water usage such as leaks.

How do you know that the meter reading is accurate?

AMR technology is state-of-the-art. The reading at the meter is converted to a digital format using technology that has proven to be highly reliable. Similar systems are already in use in major cities, including Dallas, Detroit, New York, and Washington, DC.

Is my account information secure?

Your information is secure. Data transmitted through the system is protected, and proprietary communication protocols are used.

How will I know that you have my meter reading and not someone else’s?

Each Endpoint that sends the radio signal has a unique identifier that is transmitted along with the meter reading. This identifier is compared electronically to your account record to ensure that the meter reading matches the meter assigned to your account.

Will the radio transmitter interfere with my television, computer, cordless phone, garage door, pacemaker or other electronic devices?

No. AMR technology operates as a very low-powered signal that is regulated by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) against interference. It is unlikely that it will interfere in the operation of other electronic devices.

Are there any potential health concerns with radio signals?

No. The power and duration of the radio signal is far below those that pose health risks. The products that make up the Clear Reads system are stringently evaluated for safety and meet all FCC, Industry Canada (IC), and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards.

Meter readers don’t come into my house, isn’t my water meter outside?

No. For most residential customers, to prevent freezing in the winter months, water meters are located within homes, usually in the basement. Most homes have an outdoor remote display that is connected to the meter. This is how meter readers can read the meter without coming into your home. For AMR, the installer will upgrade the meter inside your home and install an Endpoint (radio transmission device) on the exterior. If your water meter has recently been replaced, you will not need a new meter. It is already AMR compatible. This meter will be modified and an Endpoint will be installed.

Am I required to participate in the Clear Reads program and have my meter upgraded?

Yes. Participation in the Clear Reads project is mandatory. Meters for all of our customers – residential and business – will either be replaced or modified. Your cooperation in making an appointment when notified is appreciated.

What if I have questions about the last meter read before my upgrade?

Digital photographs will be taken of the old register, should any questions arise about the last reading. The installer will provide these photographs to Cleveland Water and our customer service representatives will have information available to answer your questions.

How will AMR technology impact my water bill? Will my bill go up?

As water meters age, they run slower and under-register water usage. AMR technology ensures all customers pay for the water they use – no more and no less. Some customers may notice an increase in their water bill. This is because the new meter is accurately measuring water usage, while the old meter was under-registering usage.

Clear Reads minimizes bills based on estimated reads and ensures that your bill is based on actual usage. In addition, AMR technology improves accuracy – eliminating the potential for human error in meter reading – and can help to identify any irregularities in water usage (such as leaks, damaged or broken meters) before the problem shows up on your bill.

How much will this upgrade cost me?

There is NO COST to our customers for the Clear Reads meter upgrade.

When will Clear Reads come to my home or business?

You will be notified by mail when installers will be in your neighborhood and when you should call to schedule an appointment. Please wait until you have received notification before you call.

How will I be notified when AMR is to be installed at my home?

Four weeks before Clear Reads installations begin in your area you will receive notification by mail that Clear Reads is coming to your area. Approximately two weeks later, you will receive a letter providing you with specific information about scheduling appointments. If the installers are working in your neighborhood, and you have not called to schedule an appointment, they may come to your home asking if you are willing for them to install AMR on that day.

How is the installation done?

The Clear Reads installer will locate your water meter (often in the basement of your home or business). Most of our customers will receive a new water meter. For residential customers, replacing the meter will require that the water is briefly turned off. This will allow for removal of the old meter and installation of the new one. Water service may be interrupted for commercial customers as well.

When the meter is installed, the Clear Reads installer will test the meter to ensure that it is operating. The installer will also install the radio transmitter (Endpoint) on the exterior of your home. The Endpoint will be wired to the inside water meter. Once the Endpoint is installed, using a handheld computer, the installer will program the Endpoint. This will allow communication between that Endpoint and your water meter. The job is complete when the Endpoint is in place, and the installer has removed his/ her equipment and any debris.

Our Clear Reads team will perform quality checks. You may be among the customers contacted to allow this second visit. Your cooperation in this effort is appreciated.

How long will it take?

In most instances, installation should take less than an hour. Some installations may take longer.

Will my water service be interrupted during the installation?

In many cases, water service will be turned off for 15-20 minutes. The installer will make certain that service is restored before leaving your home. If there is a functioning by-pass, water service will most often not be interrupted for commercial customers.

Will there be any difference in the delivery or quality of water after my meter upgrade?

No. You will continue to enjoy the same high quality water you have come to expect from Cleveland Water.

I have a finished basement; can I still have AMR installed?

Yes. However, if you have paneling or walls that enclose your water meter, the meter will have to be exposed, and the installer will need at least 3 feet of space around the meter to work. It is the responsibility of all customers to maintain accessibility of their water meters.