Waiuku trial

The data logger is connected to the water meter to collect readings approximately every hour. The loggers record the meter reading, battery level, cellular signal strength and date and time. The data is then sent to Watercare via the existing mobile phone network.

Improved timeliness of meter reading information, enabling us to more quickly identify water losses and fix leaks.

The smart data logger will transmit data once a day to Watercare’s secure information database.
 

We hope to use the data to identify and fix leaks in the Waiuku area. We will also be assessing the data to determine what information our customers could find useful.

It is our intention to allow customers to access the useful usage data. We haven’t determined when this will occur as it will take some time to analyse the data.
 

Smart logging technology has been assessed and utilised by other water utilities internationally. The trial will help determine if the technology works for Watercare and its customers.

The trial is expected to run until the beginning of next year. If the result of the trial is to not continue with smart metering, the smart logger will continue to be connected but will not be actively transmitting data to Watercare.

Older meters which may not be working at 100 per cent capability will be replaced with new meters and the smart data logger. Properly functioning meters will simply be fitted with the smart logger.

The smart logger will connect with a cable into the water meter and will be fixed to the side of the meter box. There will be no noticeable difference in the appearance of your fitted meter.

Installers will clean the area and make sure the new logger is working.

Results of the trial will be evaluated before a decision is made to expand installation.

No. The loggers use cell phone technology for transmitting data.
 

Yes, it is as safe as cellphones. In fact, our smart data loggers use cellphone SIM cards and comply with international health and safety guidelines. They connect to the 3G network and transmit using radiofrequency waves. In order to conserve battery life, the smart loggers are only active when they are transmitting the data once a day. 

The product has been tested and certified to be compliant to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for unlicensed transmissions: Radiated Emissions FCC 47CFR Part 15.109 Subpart B (2016), ICES-003 Issue 6 January 2016.

The peak instantaneous exposure measured in any direction from the meter was less than 2% of the publicly acceptable limit for most frequencies and less than 25% of the publicly acceptable limit in all cases.

For more information about cellphone technology, we recommend you speak to your cellphone provider.

No. The smart data logger communicates the same data as traditional meters, and they are not linked to other electronic devices or water use appliances in your home or business such as computers, cell phones, wireless modems, water heaters, washing machines or dishwashers. The water usage information that is transmitted from your meter to Watercare is secure. The transmissions are encrypted and the network infrastructure and data collection centres employ up-to-date security features.
 

If you notice a problem after installation, please email info@water.co.nz to report it.

No. There is no additional cost for the smart data logger.

No, the smart data logger will not affect your bill.  If your meter is replaced you may see an increase or decrease in your bill arising from the fact that new meters are able to measure your water usage more accurately.

Yes, you will still be able to read your meter.

Yes, your meter will continue to be read by the meter reader throughout the duration of the trial.
 

As we own and have maintenance obligations in respect of the meters, backflow prevention devices, pipes, and other network assets on our side of the point of supply, we reserve the right to attach a smart data logger to your meter for the purposes of this trial.

If you are worried about a smart data logger being attached to your water meter, please get in contact with us to discuss your concerns. You can phone us on (09) 442 2222.

Smart data logger spec sheet.