AMR Frequently Asked Questions

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AMR Frequently Asked Questions
	What is AMR? The installation of a citywide automated meter reading (AMR) network is an important next step in the New York City Department of Environmental Protection's comprehensive transformation of its Bureau of Customer Service. AMR systems consist of small, low-power radio transmitters connected to individual water meters that send readings to a network of rooftop receivers throughout the city. DEP's system will leverage DoITT's New York City Wireless Network (NYCWiN). How does AMR work? DEP will attach a small device to your meter that automatically transmits readings to electronic data receivers throughout the city. These receivers will provide DEP with all relevant billing information and eliminate the need for meter readers to visit your property. How does AMR benefit me? AMR eliminates, with rare exceptions, the need to estimate your bill. AMR tracks consumption and can alert you to costly leaks. AMR eliminates the need for a meter reader to visit your premises. AMR ensures that you receive a more accurate bill each month. How will AMR affect my bill? AMR will eliminate estimated bills and increase billing accuracy. AMR can also help alert you to household leaks so you are able to fix them before they become costly problems. You will continue to receive your water and sewer bills in the mail in accordance with your normal billing schedule, though DEP is also finalizing a new, customer-friendly bill that will explain consumption data in a clear, easy to read format. We anticipate that you will begin receiving these bills in 2009. When will an AMR transmitter be installed on my meter? DEP contractors are performing transmitter installation door-to-door beginning in the winter of 2009. Installing transmitters on all 830,000 meters in New York City will take approximately three years. You will receive a letter from DEP when AMR installation contractors are in your neighborhood. In addition, you may call 311 at any time to get a Contractor referral to schedule a transmitter installation – performed by DEP contractors – for your property. Will DEP need access to my home? DEP may need to enter your home, depending on where your current meter is installed; and we may need to shut off your water. In addition, a very small number of old meters may need to be replaced before an AMR transmitter can be properly installed. DEP will pay for these replacements. How long will the installation take? Installation of the transmitter will take around 30 minutes. What happens during the installation? For a walkthrough of what to expect during the installation of the transmitter click here . What are the benefits of AMR to DEP? AMR increases customer satisfaction by ensuring that bills are based on actual usage. AMR allows DEP to more closely monitor citywide consumption and more effectively manage the city's water supply systems. AMR is a less expensive way to read meters especially those where monthly readings may be difficult or inconvenient. It is efficient, accurate and can reduce costs. Does AMR equipment meet industry and Federal standards? Yes. AMR technology is designed to function at very low power levels and is in widespread use throughout the utility industry. We will use AMR equipment that has been tested and is compliant with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Federal Communication Commission (FCC) standards. Similar systems are already used by many other major cities, including Dallas, Detroit and Washington, D.C. Will AMR interfere with TV, personal computers, or other electronic equipment? AMR equipment operates on a low-power frequency band reserved specifically for this purpose. It is highly unlikely to interfere with the operation of any other electronic equipment. Where can I find more information about DEP's AMR system? More information is available by calling 311.