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1. How does it work?

There are several ways to read an electric meter remotely. We've chosen a system that uses a small radio transmitter in the meter. That reading will then be sent via the transmitter to a receiver in a hand-held unit or vehicle that’s being driven through your neighborhood.

2. Is my account information secure?

Yes, only meter readings and meter or module numbers are transmitted. Personal customer information will not be transmitted.

3. How will I know that you have my reading and not someone else's?

Each radio frequency device has a unique identification number which is transmitted along with the meter reading. The unique number is compared to your account record to ensure a match.

4. Will the radio frequency interfere with my television or phones?

No, the automated meter reading frequency is very different and will not interfere.

5. Does someone need to come into my home to change meters?

No.  However, as Garland Power & Light exchanges electric meters, personnel may need to access meters in back yards.

6. Will I need to be home when you install the automated meter reading device?

No, in most cases. If we visit your home and have trouble gaining access to the meter, we will leave a door tag requesting that you contact us to set up an appointment.

7. I had a tag on my door asking me to call to schedule an appointment. Why do I need to do that?

If you had a door tag asking you to call us, the most likely reason is that we were unable to gain access to the meter.

8. Will Garland Power & Light need to turn off my service?

Momentary electric service interruptions will occur when the meter is changed out.

9. How will I know the person at my door is working on this project?

Employees will be wearing clothing with the City of Garland or Garland Power & Light (GP&L) logo and will carry identification. In addition, their vehicles will be identified as belonging to the City of Garland or GP&L. If you ever have any question about the identity of someone who claims to be working on this project, please call our Meter Reading Supervisor at 972-205-2960.

10. Will I still be able to view the meter reading?

Yes, the digital reading will remain visible, so you can view the meter reading(s) if you wish.

11. Will my water meter be replaced with an automated meter?

Yes, it will eventually be replaced.

12. How does the automated meter reading benefit customers?

Benefits of the automated meter reading system include:

• Controlled meter reading costs
• Fewer employee injuries, especially in areas with fenced yards, dogs and landscaping
• Improved customer service, which includes:
  • Minimizing the need to access a customer’s property to read meters
  • No need for customers to read electric meters due to meter access issues
• Improved meter reading accuracy with the radio transmitted meter reads
• Reduction in estimated bills
• Reduction in operational costs, thereby allowing the City of Garland to keep your utility rates as low as possible