Newmarket launches second phase of mandatory water meter replacement program

Infrastructure will allow future ability to track usage and identify leaks before they become a larger issue

Yorkregion.com
April 7, 2022
Lisa Queen

Newmarket is moving into the second phase of its mandatory water meter replacement program.

The new digital infrastructure will provide residents and the town better access to data to allow for the future ability to track and monitor usage and identify leaks and losses before they become a larger issue, the town said in a statement.

The first phase began in March 2021 and upgraded water meters for about 7,000 households. The second phase of the program will replace water meters for about 18,000 homes.

Households will be selected on an area-by-area basis. Those selected will receive a letter in the mail and will be required to book an in-person appointment with contractor Wamco.

Installers will need to access the water meter inside the home and install a water meter reader outside.

There is no cost but the program is mandatory.

An adult is required to be at home for the duration of the appointment, which will take 30 to 60 minutes.

Residents may experience water use disruption lasting between 10 and 30 minutes.

Once the appointment is booked, a confirmation email/text message will be sent to the resident.

It is important residents book an appointment within seven days of receiving the letter to ensure they continue to receive accurate water meter readings.

Appointments can be booked at www.wamco.ca or by calling 1-833-926-2626.

Some benefits of the program include:

The ability for the town to conduct remote water meter readings.

No physical visits will be required to obtain water meter readings, which will result in saved time and improved efficiencies.

Improved water meter reading accuracy.

If the resident’s water meter was previously over-registering or under-registering, the new water meter will now measure the water usage accurately.

The future ability for the town to identify leaks and losses within the system before they become a larger issue.

The future ability for residents to track water usage through an online portal.

Wamco installers will be subject to a daily health screening process before heading to work and will be wearing face masks and staying at least six feet/two metres apart at all times.

For more information, visit newmarket.ca/watermeters, email info@newmarket.ca or call 905-895-5193.