This mandatory meter upgrade is free and takes only 30 minutes to complete.

Why Does My Meter Need to Be Upgraded?

All Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) customers are required to have an Automatic Meter Reader water meter and must have the meter’s battery upgraded to ensure accurate meter readings and compliance with City code. Failure to obtain the battery upgrade will result in an interruption of water service. PWD has been working with Itron, a company that specializes in automatic meter readers, since 1997. Beginning in February 2011 and continuing over the next two years, Itron Field Service Representatives (FSRs) will be visiting each neighborhood throughout the City to upgrade the water meter batteries.

How Does The Upgrade Process Work?

• A notification will appear on your water/sewer/stormwater bill indicating when Itron will be in your neighborhood to upgrade your meter’s battery. If possible, please allow the Itron FSRs access to your home to upgrade the battery during an unscheduled visit.
• Itron FSRs will be driving a vehicle and wearing a uniform with Itron and PWD insignia. They will also have an Itron and PWD identification badge. If you have any questions or want to verify their identity, please ask for their ID badge or call 1-800-767-8719.
• This battery upgrade is free of charge and should take no more than 30 minutes. To make sure this process goes as smoothly as possible, please clear the area around your water meter so the Itron FSRs will have easy access to the battery.

When Will The Upgrade Happen?

If possible, Itron FSRs will upgrade your water meter battery while in your neighborhood conducting Automatic Meter Readings.

If you are not available during that time, please call Itron at 1-800-767-8719 within three days of receiving a notice on your water/sewer/stormwater bill or on your door to set up an appointment. Appointment hours will be Monday through Saturday 8:00 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.

If you have any questions, please call the Water Department’s 24-hour hotline at 215-685-6300. Remember, this upgrade is mandatory and we need your help to complete this citywide initiative!