Arlington plans to replace water meters for town water-and-sewer customers through 2017 — free — and be on the lookout for sump pumps.
The town maintains water meters to make sure each customer is billed fairly for the portion of water-and-sewer service used.
The new water meters include features that support town goals of improved customer service.
As water meters are replaced, the installer will conduct a brief evaluation of each building’s basement or lowest floor to identify sources of inflow. Inflow is rainwater that enters the sewer system through a piping mistake that directs water to the sewer system instead of the drain system.
Inflow substantially increases the amount of flow in the sewer system and can overload pipes causing sewer backups and overflows.
Sump pumps that are connected to the sewer system are considered sources of inflow. These connections are not allowed under the Massachusetts Building and Plumbing Codes and the town’s Sewer Use Regulations.
If sump pumps connected to the sewer are identified, property owners will be contacted at a later date with requirements to remedy the situation.
Before beginning work in an area, notices will be sent to customers informing them of the program and asking they call or email to schedule a service appointment.
Town personnel will also solicit access door-to-door, or via telephone call, if mailing efforts are unsuccessful.
For an installation to take place, someone 18 or older must be present at the time of installation.
Town installers are to display identification badges and drive marked town vehicles.
The town encourages residents to always ask to see ID before allowing anyone in their homes.
For additional details about the program, visit arlingtonma.gov/water.
This announcement was published Friday, June 10, 2016.
