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Advanced Metering Infrastructure Project

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The Town of Collierville installed Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) throughout the Town limits from October of 2024 through April of 2025. 


**LOOSE LEAF SEASON REMINDER**
Keep Meters Clear Graphic
Keep water meters clear of leaves; residents may be responsible for water meter repair costs up to $300 if damaged.

 

Introduction to AMI
  • Definition: Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a system that uses smart meters and communication networks to provide real-time data on utilities usage. This technology allows for the automatic collection, transmission, and management of utility data.
  • Purpose: The primary goal of AMI is to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and transparency of utility services by providing accurate and timely information to both customers and utility providers.
Benefits of AMI
  • Accuracy and Transparency: AMI reduces the likelihood of billing errors by providing precise data on water usage.
  • Real-Time Monitoring: Customers can monitor their usage in real-time, allowing them to make informed decisions about water conservation.
  • Outage Detection: AMI helps utility providers quickly detect and respond to unusual activity, leading to faster restoration times.
  • Environmental Impact: By enabling better water management, AMI contributes to reducing the community's overall carbon footprint.

I have a pressure reducing valve (PRV) on my water line. Will the meter change out create any issues, or should I call my plumber?

No, the meter changeout should not impact or create any issues with residents that have an installed PRV valve on their water line. All work performed is contained within the meter box and there is no need to call a plumber. If you have additional questions regarding PRV valves, please contact Public Services at 901-457-2800.

I have concerns regarding the RF signals from smart meters, are the meters safe?

Yes, Smart meters use low-energy RF signals to transmit data, similar to devices like cell phones or Wi-Fi routers but with far lower exposure levels. Unlike devices that operate continuously, smart meters only transmit data for a few seconds or minutes each day, further minimizing RF exposure. Smart meters must comply with all safety standards set by organizations like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), ensuring emissions remain well below harmful levels.

I have concerns regarding data privacy and cybersecurity, will the new meters allow for the transmission of my private data?

No, Utilities implement advanced encryption and secure communication protocols to protect customer data. Smart meters only collect consumption data, and do not transmit any personal or sensitive information.

How long will my water be off when my meter is changed out?

Meter change outs typically take 5 – 10 minutes in most cases. Collierville utilizes meter setters that simplify the change-out process. The meter setter is basically a rack that holds a water meter in line with the service line using two nuts. (The water service is shut off at the meter, the two nuts are loosened, the meter is removed, the new meter is placed, the nuts are tightened, and water service is restored.)

What is the silver dot or disc on my meter box?

The silver dot or disc is the AMI meter antenna used to transmit meter data from the water meter to a nearby collector tower that then transmits the data to our Utility Billing Department.

I’m experiencing discolored water, see small particles of sediment or have air in my lines after my meter is changed out what should I do?

Following meter change out staff will flush your water line using a nearby external hose faucet. If you experience discolored water, see small particles of sediment, or have air in your lines, you can flush your internal plumbing by opening an outside hose faucet or by opening a bathtub faucet. Staff caution against flushing your lines through a kitchen or bathroom sink as many of those faucets have strainers that can become clogged from sediment when flushing your lines.

Is my bill going to go up following installation of the new smart meter?

Your bill will should remain similar to what you have previously seen with your manual meter. Billing is based on water usage and with installation of an AMI smart meter this will ensure you are billed efficiently and accurately during each billing cycle minimizing human error in the process.

Can I opt out of receiving a smart meter?

Currently, there is no "opt out" options for the AMI program. This is due to the costs and inefficiencies associated with running a mixed meter reading program. The goal of this project is to improve accuracy and minimize the risk of human error. 

If you have further questions, please reach out Public Serivces at 901-457-2800.