HICKORY, N.C. (WHKY) — The City of Hickory is upgrading water meters throughout its water system, including meters serving customers in Alexander County.

The project will replace older meters with new technology designed to provide more accurate and reliable readings, improve information about water usage and help identify possible leaks more quickly.

The new Advanced Metering Infrastructure system, known as Hickory H2O, will also allow readings to be collected remotely rather than requiring employees to visit each meter for routine readings. Once fully implemented, customers will have access to an online portal where they can monitor their water usage.

Installation of a new meter typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes. Water service will be temporarily interrupted while the work is underway, but customers generally do not need to be home. A door hanger will be left after installation is completed.

The city says there is no charge to customers for the new meters or their installation. Because older meters can become less accurate over time, some customers could notice a change in measured water usage after receiving a new meter.

Professional Meters Inc. is performing the installations on behalf of the City of Hickory.

Alexander County’s share of the project will be paid from its Water and Sewer Fund.

More information about the Hickory H2O project is available through the City of Hickory. Customers with additional questions may contact Hickory Public Utilities at 828-323-7427.