Toronto residents to get water MTU replacements starting in April
· Toronto Sun
The City of Toronto is launching a three-year program in April to replace all 470,000 water meter transmission units for customers.
The small devices that automatically send water-use readings to the City for billing purposes are failing earlier than expected in municipalities across North America.
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The city says replacing them will help ensure customers continue to receive timely and up-to-date water bills.
Although water meters continue to record water use accurately, failed transmission units mean the City no longer receives that water-use data. When this happens, the City issues estimated bills based on a property’s past consumption until an actual water meter reading is obtained.
“We have a dedicated team available to support residents through this transition,” said John Longarini, Director, Revenue Services, for the City of Toronto in a statement.
“Ensuring every customer is billed accurately based on their actual water usage remains our top priority. We appreciate the patience and participation of water customers during this transition.”
The approximately $103‑million replacement program is funded through the City’s budget and helps maintain the automated meter reading system that has already saved more than $350 million in operational costs since its full implementation in 2015.
There is no separate charge or installation fee for customers, and a dedicated customer support team will be available to help throughout the program.
The replacements to begin geographically in April
The replacement program will roll out by geographic zones starting in April and continue through 2028.
“This replacement program is a critical investment in the long-term reliability of Toronto’s water meter system and the value we deliver to residents,” said Lou Di Gironimo, General Manager, Toronto Water, in a statement.
“While the recent transmission unit failures have been a challenge, the overall meter program has saved the City significant costs over the past decade. It remains the most efficient and cost-effective way to ensure accurate billing for all customers.”
Neptune Technology Group (Canada), the contractor hired by the City to complete the work, will contact customers directly to book appointments once replacements are scheduled in their area.
Customers can check their zone and estimated replacement timeline at toronto.ca/MTUreplacement.
Once transmission of accurate meter readings resumes, customers on estimated billing will see an adjustment that reflects their actual water use.
Updated bills will be issued approximately four to six weeks after actual water-use data is received, and customers will be moved off estimated billing.
Customers with questions or concerns about their bill should call 311 where dedicated customer support is available including assistance in multiple languages, billing support and flexible payment options.