How do water meters work?

A water meter is a mechanical device with a series of internal gears.  These gears move as water flows through the meter, recording your usage.  This process is similar to how an automobile odometer records the miles as the tires rotate.  All meters are factory calibrated to industry standards prior to being shipped, and last 10 to 15 years. After that time, they can begin to wear, allowing more water to flow through the meter than is actually recorded with the result being an underbilled customer.

As TMWA installs new meters, we also upgrade the technology allowing us to electronically read meters.  This is accomplished by sending a signal to a device attached to the meter that responds with the reading.  This mobile computerized technology is more accurate and more efficient than manually reading meters.

Learn how to read your water meter.