Smart Meter Rollout for North Austin MUD #1
North Austin MUD #1 will begin the installation of smart water meters for residential and commercial properties in late 2024 and early December 2025. The project is expected to last 60 days.
Why is North Austin MUD #1 making this change?
- Outdated Infrastructure: The current water meters are over a decade old, leading to inefficiencies, including undetectable leaks causing thousands of gallons of water loss monthly. These meters are also in many cases beyond the meter manufacturers recommended timeframe for replacement of 10 years or 1 million gallons registered.
- Improved Accuracy: The smart meters provide near real-time data, allowing the MUD to better document system demand and accurately assess water usage.
- Real-Time Data Access: Residents will have access to their water usage data in near real-time through an app and web portal, allowing for better monitoring of consumption and promoting water conservation.
- Leak Detection: The new meters will provide better accuracy and can identify leaks quickly helping to conserve water and reduce waste.
Installation Process and Water Service Interruptions - Contractor: HST Utility, a contractor specializing in smart meter installation, will handle the
process. They are highly experienced in automated meter conversions across the nation. - Procedure: Installation will involve replacing the water meter in the meter box on the property.
Residents will be informed through door hangers about any service interruptions, and the contractor
will attempt personal contact. - Service Interruptions: Water service will be temporarily interrupted for approximately 15-30
minutes during the installation. In case of unforeseen issues, there may be delays, but every
effort will be made to minimize disruptions. - Cost: Residents will not be charged for the meter replacement.
Radio Frequency (RF) Communication and Safety - Radio Frequency Use: The smart meters use low-frequency radio waves to transmit data to the base
station and utility billing system. All communications equipment complies with federal licensing
requirements and is considered safe.
Security of the New Meters - Data Security: The meter display will remain visible to customers for monitoring consumption,
while other stored data, such as usage and location, will be securely stored within the meter. No
personal customer information is stored in the meters.
This upgrade will help South Buda WCID#1 improve water management, conserve resources, and provide
better service to residents while maintaining data security and safety standards.
For questions or concerns, email our customer service team at customerservice@crossroadsus.com