Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project
To help reduce water loss and increase the value of services to our customers, the San Bernardino Municipal Water Department (SBMWD) is upgrading water meters with Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) technology.
Utilizing a cellular network, SBMWD will receive continuous water consumption data so customers can be notified of high or unusual water consumption more quickly.
If you have an AMI smart meter, you may receive a message regarding water use via email, text, or phone call. Important information if you receive a water use alert:
Not a Leak Locator: Your new water meter cannot locate the source of any potential leaks. The alerts we provide are based solely on usage patterns recorded by the meter.
No Immediate Emergency Indicated: A notification from us does not necessarily mean you have a burst pipe or major leak.
Customer Responsibility: If you receive a notification, we encourage you to check your property for possible causes of continuous water flow and determine whether further action is needed.
- What is AMI?
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AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) uses smart meters to measure water use, send data wirelessly, and help detect unusual usage.
- What are the benefits of AMI?
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Increased operational efficiency, enhanced billing transparency, earlier identification of unusual usage patterns which may indicate the presence of leaks.
- Will AMI be used to turn my water off?
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AMI meters will not be used to turn off your water or restrict water flow to your property.
- Will my water bill increase?
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Your water rates have not changed as a result of the AMI project. Your new AMI water meter registers usage more accurately than older models, so your billed water use may appear higher than before. This may result in a slight increase in your monthly bill.
- I received a water usage alert. Can my AMI meter tell me where my water is being used?
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Your meter tracks water use, not where it is used. Visit CheckForLeaks for further information.
- How does AMI benefit the environment?
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By sending data wirelessly, AMI reduces vehicle trips and helps lower greenhouse gas emissions.
- Can I monitor my own water use?
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SBMWD is currently in the process of launching the AMI Customer Portal. This easy-to-use online tool will allow you to track your daily water use, set alerts to help detect unusual usage, and better manage your bills with clear insights into your consumption. Stay tuned for updates on the official launch of this exciting customer resource.
A new AMI Customer Portal is coming soon! This easy-to-use online tool will allow you to track your daily water use, set alerts to detect unusual usage, and better manage your bills with clear insights into your consumption. Stay tuned for updates on the official launch of this exciting customer resource.
What to expect during your meter service upgrade
On the day of the upgrade, you do not need to be home as long your water meter is clear of any obstructions and/or heavy debris. Not all meters will need to be replaced but if a meter replacement is required, a temporary water service interruption will occur. In most cases, the meter upgrades happen quickly, and customers do not notice that the meter has been upgraded and/or replaced.
If the meter is obstructed, or meter upgrades cannot be completed on the planned day, the contractor, Professional Meters, Inc. (PMI) will leave a door hanger noting the reason and how to reschedule the replacement.
View meter access door hanger (link to PDF)
If you are experiencing any issues after installation or to make arrangements for your meter upgrade, please contact PMI by calling 1(855) 229-5562.