Show All Answers

1. Will there be a charge for receiving a new meter?

No. There is no charge for receiving an automated meter. The cost of the meters is part of our operations and we believe that, over time, their effectiveness will continue to help us maintain low rates.

2. Will my utility bill increase after I receive an automated meter?

Having an automated meter at your home in no way changes the rates, you pay for electricity and water so you should not expect your bill to increase significantly after you get an automated meter. There is the theoretical possibility that your old meter was “slow” (not recording your full usage), in which case, yes, your bill may increase once you receive a new, correctly functioning meter. Although we have seen reports of unexpected bill increases from residents in other cities, we have not received any such complaints from customers in Anaheim who have already had automated meters installed at their homes.

If you feel that your bill does not accurately reflect your true consumption, please contact us to schedule an energy audit for your home.

3. Will my bill look different after I receive an automated meter?

Your bill will look the same as it always has. Once your meter is installed and configured correctly, it will be sending 15-minute interval consumption to us. In order to calculate your total consumption and register reads during a 2-month billing period, our meter data management system tallies up the energy you used during each of those intervals and adds that to the previously billed read. In other words, we are not simply subtracting your meter reading at the beginning of the billing period from your meter reading at the end of the billing period.

4. Is the information that’s recorded and transmitted by my automated meter private and secure?

In many ways, automated meters enhance your personal privacy by negating the need for bi-monthly visits to your home by a meter reader. And as always, your electric and water consumption information is used by Anaheim Public Utilities strictly for billing purposes.

All of our computer systems, devices, and communication networks, from your meter to our back office billing system, and everything in between, utilize modern security protocols and comply with applicable standards issued by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

5. In the past, I could calculate my electric usage by reading the dials on the front of my meter. Can I still do that?

Yes. The LCD display on the front of your new electric meter is always on and, depending on the exact model of meter you receive, will rotate every few seconds between digital screen displays. Watch for the screen that shows a number other than all 8s. Each time a kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity is used; this number will increase by 1. The more electricity you use, the faster the number will increase.

6. Will both electric and water meters be replaced at the same time?

No.  In most cases, your electric meter will be replaced first and later follow-up with your water meter.  You will still be notified either way. 

7. Will my power and water be turned off when you replace my meters?

Yes. There will be a brief interruption to both your electric and water service. The interruption to your power will likely be less than 10 minutes, after which you may need to reset some of your electronic devices, such as digital clocks. Your water will be temporarily turned off for approximately 20-30 minutes. We apologize for this inconvenience.

8. Will Anaheim Public Utilities’ staff be installing my new meter?

Yes. Anaheim Public Utilities’ trained meter technicians will be installing your automated meter. Meter Technicians have completed a 3-year apprenticeship and are experienced in testing, inspecting, and installing automated  meters. They can be recognized by their uniform with photo IDs and company vehicles.

9. Do I need to be home to have my meter replaced?

No. You do not need to be home when the new meter is installed; however, our representatives do require unobstructed access to both your electric and water meters. About 2 weeks prior to your upgrade, you will receive a letter from us informing you of the exact date that we will be replacing meters in your neighborhood. If after receiving the letter, you would like to request a specific appointment time, please contact us at 714-765-3300.

Several days before your meter is replaced, we will leave a reminder notice on your door. Please take this opportunity to ensure that you have made arrangements to unlock gates and secure pets as necessary.

10. How will I know the meter has been replaced?

If we are unable to install your meter, we will leave a hang tag on your door with further instructions.

11. What if I am a Lifeline customer or operate medical equipment?

You will receive a notification letter to replace your meter.  If you have registered with us as a Lifeline customer, we will call you a week before the installation of your new meter to schedule an appointment to conduct the meter exchange.

12. What if Anaheim Public Utilities wasn’t able to change out my meter?

If we are unable to install your meter, we will leave a hang tag on your door with further instructions.

13. What if I have any questions regarding automated meter installation?

If you have any questions, please call us at 714-765-3300. Customer service representatives are available Monday - Friday from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

14. Does Anaheim Public Utilities sell my information to a third party vendor?

No, we are a public agency so we do not sell any customer information to outside companies.