Automated Meter Reading
More than a decade ago, DC Water changed the meters to a fixed network, radio technology system called the automated meter reading (AMR) system. This program provided state-of-the-art technology that enabled actual reads from a meter without sending meter-reading personnel to individual homes. This AMR technology is also fully integrated with our Customer Billing and Information System. This means customers can retrieve more than daily meter readings and water usage information through their My DC Water account or by calling Customer Service at 202-354-3600.
If, for some reason, transmission is blocked by the property owner, then DC Water will send a meter reader. The property owner will be charged for DC Water's expense.
How to Read Your Water Meter
DC Water can read most water meters in the District of Columbia electronically, so there's typically no need for you to read your water meter. However, DC Water provides the information below in case you want to read your water meter and calculate your monthly fees. We discourage reading outside water meters because removing and replacing the cap covers can be a safety hazard.
Follow these simple steps to figure out your water usage each month:
1. Note and record the "read" number on your water meter on the first of the month.
2. Record the "read" number at the end of the month.
3. Take the end-of-the-month number and subtract the first-of-the-month number from it.
DC Water bills in hundred cubic feet (ccf) units of measure and only charges for whole units. So, when reading your meter, disregard the numbers on the black background, because they are fractions. In the example below, the current reading is 8 ccfs. After subtracting 0 (the first-of-the-month reading), the total is 8 ccfs.
Previous Read:
|
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
Previous Read: 0 0 0 0 0 0
Current Read:
|
0 |
0 |
0 |
8 |
4 |
4 |
Current Read: 0 0 0 8 4 4 (read as "8")
TOTAL CONSUMPTION: 8-0000 = 8ccf
Determining Your Monthly Water and Sewer Charges
To determine your monthly water and sewer charges, multiply your usage by the current rate for water and the current rate for sewer services.
Don't forget to add in your meter fee, water service replacement fee, and impervious area charge, as well as the District of Columbia's fees to calculate your entire bill.
