What are the benefits of AMR?
Improved customer service, including:
- Minimizing the need to access your property to read your meters.
- Call resolution improvement – billing calls will be handled more quickly due to availability of more frequent meter readings.
- You won’t need to read your own meters if we can’t access it.
- Fewer vehicles are necessary for the meter reading process, reducing dust and emissions, and decreasing the displacement and harassment to local wildlife in remote areas such as Cheyenne Mountain, Gold Camp, Ruxton Park, and Rampart.
- AMR provides daily meter reads, which has the potential to show customers a true picture of their utilities use so they can conserve and better manage their bills.
- Fewer employee injuries, especially in areas with fenced yards, dogs and landscaping.
- Controlled meter reading costs.
- A reduction in operational costs that will save you money.
- AMR technology uses a wireless fixed network system to read your meter.
Is this new system really needed?
We strive to provide the best possible customer service, high reliability and low rates. The AMR technology will help us achieve these goals. Through the reduced need for on-site manual meter readings and other efficiencies, the system will pay for itself within about 10 years, then save $6 million each year.
What information will be transmitted?
The modules transmit meter readings and the meter identification number. Diagnostic information is also transmitted to verify that the meter is operating correctly or notify us of a power outage.
Is my account information secure?
Yes, only meter readings and meter numbers are transmitted. Personal customer information is not transmitted. We use technology that was originally developed by the U.S. military for secure communications to keep your information private and secure.
Will the AMR system interfere with my TV, radio or garage door opener?
No. The transmitting devices operate in compliance with FCC regulations to avoid interference with other electronic devices.
Are there any potential health concerns with the radio signals?
Studies made on low-power RF transmissions have revealed no negative health impacts.
Is there a separate charge for Automated Meter Reading?
No. The cost to install and implement the entire system is included in base rates.
Does someone need to come into my home?
As contractors exchange natural gas meters, they must access homes to re-light pilot lights. They may also have to enter your home to work on older style water meters. They will also verify that inside remote reads match inside reads.
How will I know the person at my door is working on this project?
Contract employees wear a Springs Utilities contractor badge with a photo ID.
If you ever have any question about the identity of someone who claims to be working for Springs Utilities, please call our Customer Service Center at 448-4800.
How many visits will it take to install my new meters?
Due to the different skills and training required by the installers to handle three different services—water, electric and natural gas—it may take three visits to install your new meters. Whenever possible, we will coordinate the installations to minimize inconvenience to you.
Will Springs Utilities need to turn off my service?
Service interruptions are momentary.
Do I need to reset my electric circuits?
On occasion, the replacement of your electric meter will cause a ground fault interrupter to trip, and it will need to be reset. This is especially critical if you have a freezer or refrigerator that uses a separate GFI circuit.
Will I see a change in my service after AMR is installed?
No. You will continue to receive the same reliable service you have come to expect from us. The only change you'll notice is you will not see meter readers on your property monthly to collect the readings. Service personnel may visit the meter periodically to confirm proper operation or perform routine maintenance.
Do I need to maintain the AMR meters?
No. We are responsible for all maintenance. Do not tamper with the devices or hang foreign objects from them. Do not bang on them or attempt to make adjustments. If you think something is wrong with the equipment, please call 448-4800.
Note: Springs Utilities employees will continue to read meters manually until the AMR network is functional in your neighborhood.
