Meter Exchange Program – Quick Facts:
📍 Meter Model: Kamstrup flowIQ® 2200
📡 Communication Type: Wireless M-Bus (AMI)
⏱️ Meter Communications: Approximately 8 times per day. The meter does not transmit continuously, and each communication lasts only a fraction of a second.
💲 Cost to Customers: There is no charge for the meter exchange.
🔧 Meter Ownership: The meter remains the property of Kittery Water District.
📋 Purpose of the Program: To replace aging meter infrastructure, improve meter accuracy, standardize the District’s metering platform, and support efficient meter reading and billing operations.
Why is Kittery Water District replacing water meters?
The District is replacing aging water meters that have reached the end of their expected service life. The replacement program will standardize metering technology throughout the District and ensure continued accuracy, reliability, and operational efficiency.
What meter is being installed?
The District is currently installing the Kamstrup flowIQ® 2200 ultrasonic water meter.
Why can’t my existing meter remain in service?
Many of the existing meters throughout the District have reached or exceeded their expected service life. In addition, support for the older metering system is being phased out, and the District will no longer be able to maintain or read those meters once the legacy system is discontinued.
Does the new meter transmit information wirelessly?
Yes. The Kamstrup flowIQ® 2200 meter utilizes radio frequency (RF) communication technology and is compatible with both AMR (Automated Meter Reading) and AMI (Advanced Metering Infrastructure) systems.
The meter contains both an AMR radio and an AMI radio, which operate on different frequencies depending on the communication system being utilized. The Kittery Water District meters are programmed to operate in AMI mode, which is why frequency information may vary between different manufacturer documents and technical references.
The meter does not transmit continuously. Under the District’s current system configuration, the meter communicates approximately eight times per day, with each transmission lasting only a fraction of a second. The meter spends the vast majority of its time in a non-transmitting state and only communicates periodically to support meter reading and system operations.
Does the District offer a non-transmitting or manually read meter option?
No. At this time, the District does not offer a non-transmitting or manually read alternative meter option as part of the current meter replacement program.
Is participation in the meter replacement program required?
Yes. The meter replacement program is part of the District’s utility-owned metering infrastructure and ongoing system maintenance program.
The District’s authority regarding meter access, maintenance, and replacement is outlined within the Kittery Water District Terms and Conditions and Chapter 620 of the Maine Public Utilities Commission’s Rules and Regulations.
What authority allows the District to replace water meters?
Section 15 of the District’s Terms and Conditions states in part:
“As a condition of service… Customers shall provide access for Utility employees with proper identification to all premises supplied with water, at all reasonable hours.”
Sections 4 and 5 of Chapter 620 of the Maine Public Utilities Commission’s Rules and Regulations also address metering requirements, meter maintenance and replacement, and access to utility-owned metering equipment.
KWD Terms and Conditions
PUC – Chapter 620 Rule
Was the meter replacement program approved by the District?
Yes. The District Trustees approved implementation of the meter replacement program on January 15, 2025.
Link to January 15, 2025 Trustee Meeting Minutes
Has the District reviewed health and safety information regarding the meters?
Yes. The District has reviewed manufacturer documentation, applicable federal regulations, industry standards, and information provided by the manufacturer regarding the operation of the meter and its communication system.
The manufacturer states that the meter complies with applicable electromagnetic radiation requirements and industry standards. According to the manufacturer, the meter communicates at a maximum transmission power of 25 milliwatts (mW), compared to up to 2,000 milliwatts (mW) for a typical mobile phone.
The District does not independently conduct medical, health, or safety studies regarding meter communication technology. Information published by the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding radio frequency exposure and wireless technologies indicates that these technologies are safe when operated within established standards and exposure limits.
Additional manufacturer information is available below.
How long does the meter replacement take?
Most meter exchanges take approximately 15–30 minutes to complete, although installation times may vary depending on meter location and accessibility.
Will my water be shut off during the replacement?
Yes. Water service will be temporarily interrupted during the meter exchange. In most cases, service is restored shortly after the installation is completed.
Who should I contact if I have questions?
Please contact the Kittery Water District office at 207-439-1128 or email info@kitterywater.org for additional information regarding the meter replacement program.
