Norristown Begins Final Leg Of Electronic Water Meter Conversion

NORRISTOWN, Pa. (CBS) - Starting today, Pennsylvania American Water rolls out the final phase of automated water meter reading devices for the borough of Norristown.

The company is spending nearly $800-thousand to upgrade the remaining 6,900 meters for customers in Norristown. The devices use radio frequency technology to accurately record water usage every month.

Pennsylvania American Water spokesman Terry Maenza said the switch over to the automated devices will make the company more efficient, "Our meter readers will no longer have to access the customers' property. We're able to read water meters remotely from the curb -- really from our vehicles. In addition, we can eliminate estimated water bills."

A private contractor will be doing the installation work, which is expected to take 15-30 minutes. Maenza reminds customers to make sure they check the installer's photo identification when they arrive at their home.

Reported by Brad Segall, KYW Newsradio 1060