Water Meter Replacement and Installation Project

The City-wide Water Meter Replacement Project is underway. This project is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2025. All properties must get their water meter replaced at no cost to the property owner.

In order to complete the work necessary to read the water meter, the City will require access to the water meter and must enter most homes and businesses to do this. Typically, a water meter can be replaced in less than an hour. It is necessary that someone age 18 or older be present during the entire appointment. 

*If you plan to have your water meter valve replaced before the project, the work must be completed by a licensed plumber and a permit may be required.

FAQ’s:

Why is the City replacing the water meters?

The existing water meters have reached the end of their useful life, they lack modern technology such as leak detection, and are expensive to read. In order to continue metering water and providing quality customer service, the City of Big Lake is replacing all meters. 

Who will be replacing my water meter?

The City originally hired HyroCorp for the project, but since the contract has ended, Public Works staff will be replacing meters going forward. 

How can I schedule for my water meter to be replaced?

To schedule your appointment, please call the Public Works front desk at 763-251-8012 during office hours of Monday - Thursday 6:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Fridays from 6:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Appointments are available Monday - Thursday, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

What is being replaced?

This project will replace the water meter that is installed in the water service pipe. A new water meter and radio communicator will be installed. The new meters and communicators are manufactured by Sensus.

Do I need to do anything before my water meter is replaced?

Access – The City will need access to the water meter. You will need to provide an unobstructed path to the meter and adjacent valves. The worker will need space to operate both valves and to remove and replace the water meter. 

Shut off Valves – Properly functioning shutoff valves are a homeowner’s or business’ first line of defense to prevent flooding in the event of a broken pipe or leak.  The shut off valves on both sides of the meter will need to be fully operational. If these valves leak or fail during the meter replacement it is the homeowner or business owner’s responsibility to replace or repair the valves 

If the City is unable to access the water meter or one or both of the shut off valves fail, the meter replacement will need to be rescheduled for another time.  

Will I have to pay anything to have my water meter replaced?

There is no cost to replace your water meter.  The only cost the resident might incur is costs related to valve replacements and/or the operation of the curb stop at the property.

Is there EMF frequency associated with the water metering system?

Yes, EMF frequency is emitted by the radio communicator. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) establishes limits for radio frequency of 1.6 watts per kilogram (w/kg) and this project and all water meters are compliant with all FCC regulations.  If this is a concern of yours, the City is offering an opt out program. 

Am I required to have my water meter replaced?

All customers are required to have their water meter replaced. An appointment is required even if a new meter was recently installed for another reason, or if you are in a recently constructed home. 

Do you have an Opt-out Program? 

The City is offering an option to opt out of the automatic meter reading. However, you must still get your water meter replaced. Customers who choose to participate will be charged an additional amount to have your water usage collected by City staff. Your meter will be manually read by the City from April to October. Your water bill will be estimated for November through March and will be adjusted in April to correct the actual water usage. The charge amount for the opt out program is not yet established and will be based on the actual effort to collect and process the readings.  If you wish to opt out of the automatic meter reading please contact the City of Big Lake by calling 763-263-2107.

Resources:

• City’s Water Conservation Tips for Consumers
• Radiation Exposure and Cancer Risk