As its name suggests, Automated Meter Reading, or AMR as it is more commonly known, involves the use of electronic devices that read water and other meters automatically.  WASD’s system will include transmitters to convey data from individual meters to a central database housed by WASD. 

AMR is either already in use or being implemented at several large cities across the country including Philadelphia, Atlanta and Denver.  The system is expected to provide timely, accurate meter readings, more accurate billing and the ability to detect leaks before they result in a high bill. 

Additionally, AMR will help reduce the emission of greenhouse gases in Miami-Dade as WASD employees will need to drive less than they do now to read meters across the County. 

Another environmentally friendly benefit of AMR will be the new meter box covers WASD will be using.  In order for the AMR system to transmit usage information to WASD, meter box covers will have to be made of non-metallic materials.  WASD plans to use meter box covers made of 100-percent recycled materials—a blend of plastic milk containers and rubber tire grindings.