Water Meter Replacement Program

Phase: Replacements in progress
Location: Citywide
Start Date: Summer 2014
Completion Date: 2019 (estimated)
Next Step: Citywide installation of new meters

The City’s Water Division will be replacing the majority of the 16,500 water meters within the City as part of its multi-year Water Meter Replacement Program.See a map of the areas of the City and when meters will be replaced (PDF).

The current water meters have been in service for 10 to 15 years and have reached the end of their useful lives. As water meters age, they often lose accuracy, resulting in incorrect billing and non-revenue water loss. The new meters, which have an expected 20-year battery life, will ensure accurate readings and billing.

How They Work

The new water meters will operate the same as the old meters. All water meters in Wheaton currently have a wireless device that transmits the meter readings on a licensed radio frequency over a short distance to a handheld or mobile device. This technology has improved the efficiency of the meter reading program.

This program is expected to take approximately 5 years to complete. When your water meter is set to be replaced, you will receive a letter from the City requesting a meter replacement appointment.

What to Expect

During this appointment, a Water Division customer service representative will visit your home to replace the water meter, free of charge. Each appointment takes about 30 minutes to complete, during which the water will be shut off for about 15 minutes. Appointments may be scheduled between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Water Meter Replacement Program