Farewell, Meter Readers: City Installs Automated Data Collection

Like the milk man before them, Manassas utility meter readers aren't going to be making those frequent trips out to your property anymore.

The city announced Friday that it has installed Automated Metered Infrastructure, providing real-time data to the utility company and replacing the periodic visits from meter readers.

The new system will monitor water and electric meters, transferring the data to the central database for billing and troubleshooting. The new system should also help in detecting water leaks or unusual spikes in electric power use.

"This information with analysis can help both utility providers and customers better control the use and production of electric energy or water consumption," according to a city statement.