Outside Water Meter FAQs
Q: I have an outside water meter. When do I call in my readings?
A: If you have purchased an outside water meter, it is your responsibility to call us with your readings on a regular basis in order to receive your credit. When you receive your quarterly bill, call us at 207-633-4663 with your reading or e-mail your reading and we will apply the credit to your account. If you choose to contact us once per year, the deadline is November 30th for the 2nd Meter readings, and they may be submitted via the telephone, e-mail or by paper form to the District office. Please see BBHSD Sewer Bill Abatement Policy for more information/requirements for outside water meter readings.
Q: Do I need to purchase an outside water meter?
A: If you have a lawn and/or gardens that require frequent watering, it may be in your best interest to purchase an outside water meter. This meter will track the amount of water that you use outside to maintain your lawn and/or gardens. Since the water that you use outside is not going through the sewer system, we will apply a credit to your account based on your outside water usage. We can only credit your account back to the minimum charge for the quarter that you call/e-mail in your readings. Please see BBHSD Sewer Bill Abatement Policy for more information/requirements for outside water meters.
Q: Who is responsible for the maintenance of the outside water meter?
A: When you purchase your outside water meter it is your responsibility to maintain the meter as well as call in the readings. The meter should be drained and stored during the winter months to prevent freezing which can damage the meter. If you choose to have your meter permanently installed, make sure it is located where it will be protected from the elements, not at risk of freezing and easily accessible for readings.
Q: How do I read my outside water meter?
A: Reading your outside meter requires you to provide us with all the numbers that appear on the “odometer” of your meter. This reading includes all preceeding zeros and any stationary numbers to the right of the “odometer”.
The reading for the meter shown in this example is: 1356410
The reading for the meter shown in this example is: 081710
When you purchase your outside Water Meter, we make note on your account of the meter number, the start reading and whether it measures in Gallons or Cubic Feet. Therefore all you need to do is call/e-mail in the readings.
Q: What if my outside water meter is leaking/dripping at the connection points?
A: The outside water meter utilizes rubber washers at the connection points. Over time these washers can deteriorate. These washers can be purchased at your local hardware store and are most commonly referred to as “garden hose washers”. Check the washers annually and replace as needed.