The City of Toronto is experiencing a higher-than-expected failure rate in its Meter Transmission Units (MTUs). The MTUs are battery-powered devices attached to water meters that transmit consumption data to the City for billing purposes.
MTUs are essential components of the Automated Meter Reading System that was implemented in Toronto between 2010 and 2015 to ensure accurate and efficient water billing. It is important to note that the water meters themselves are functioning properly and still able to mechanically provide actual reads.
MTUs and Issue of premature failing
- City of Toronto staff recognized an issue this past winter of an increase in MTU failures.
- While the water meters are still functioning properly, MTUs that transmit the data are failing (before its expected service life).
- This issue is affecting all jurisdictions using the same supplier and the process to get replacement units is expected to take several years.
- The City is taking proactive steps to resolve this issue and ensure billing accuracy for all customers.
Affected Customers and Estimated billing
- As of June 2024, customers with a failing MTU are being moved to estimated billing based on their historical water usage data.
- Customers will be notified on their utility bill if they are on estimated billing. This will happen automatically, no action required on part of customer.
- Any discrepancies between estimated and actual usage will be adjusted once the transmitters are replaced.
- No customer will need to pay more than their actual water consumption overall.
- Option to provide manual readings. Customers can call 311 to provide an actual meter reading, allowing for more immediate accuracy in billing while the City addresses the MTU issue.
For more information and assistance, please call 311 to be connected to the dedicated phone line Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
