Potable Water

Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI)

The City of Dunedin Water Division and Utility Billing Division have implemented Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), a modern water meter system designed to improve service, efficiency, and customer access to water usage information.

The City has also launched EyeOnWater, a customer portal and mobile app that allows users to monitor their water usage in near real-time. EyeOnWater provides tools to help customers better manage water consumption and can send alerts for possible leaks or unusual usage through email, text message, or the mobile app.

What is AMI?

Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a smart water meter system that uses digital meters, secure communication networks, and data management technology to automatically collect and transmit water usage information to the utility. Unlike traditional meter reading methods, AMI allows meter data to be sent electronically at scheduled intervals without requiring utility staff to manually read meters. Meter data is transmitted securely through fixed or cellular communication networks to help ensure reliable and accurate service for customers.

Benefits of AMI

• Faster and more efficient meter reading
• Improved leak detection
• Access to detailed water usage information through EyeOnWater
• Better visibility into daily water consumption trends
• Notifications for possible continuous water usage or leaks

Who should I contact for more information about AMI?

For billing questions, please contact the Utility Billing Division at 727-298-3024.

For additional AMI information, contact the Water Division at 727-298-3100.

Can AMI detect leaks in my plumbing system?

AMI, together with EyeOnWater, can help identify possible leaks by monitoring continuous water usage. Customers may receive alerts if the meter records continuous water flow for 24 hours, which could indicate a leak within the plumbing system.

How do you ensure my meter data is accurate?

Each AMI transmitter is assigned a unique transmission code, allowing the utility to accurately identify and receive information from each individual meter.

Will AMI interfere with electronic devices in my home?

No. AMI technology will not interfere with electronic systems or devices in your home.

In accordance with the US EPA Safe Drinking Water Act, and the Florida Administrative Code Section 62-550, the City of Dunedin has installed BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES on the water service lines to protect the public water system. This notice is to advise you of a possible situation that you may experience.     

When a Backflow Prevention Device is not present, the public water mains provide a "cushion" that absorbs pressure occurring in a home's plumbing system from thermal expansion. This expansion happens when water is heated in the hot water heater. The Backflow Prevention Device is designed to stop water from backflowing into the City main. Therefore, the expanding water has no place to go, remaining in the hot water heater and building up pressure.

In normal hot water heater operation, the thermal expansion would cause the Temperature & Pressure Control Valve (TP) to release water when the pressure exceeds 100 pounds per square inch (PSI). This discharge indicates the mechanism is working properly. Discharge will occur in the immediate area surrounding your hot water heater if a discharge line does not extend from the pressure control valve on your hot water heater through an outside wall.

The following devices can be installed by a plumber to prevent this:

1. Ball cock relief valve – Watts governor 80 or equal
2. Temperature and pressure relief valve installed on an out side spigot, set at 90 P.S.I. – Watts model 530 or equal
3. Thermal expansion tank

If you have any questions or if your plumber has questions, please call the City of Dunedin Water Division at 727-298-3100.

Water Cross-Connections

A "cross connection," as defined by the Environmental Protection Agency, is any actual or potential connection between the public water supply and a source of contamination or pollution. Specifically, it is a physical link that allows potential backflow incidents. This includes any permanent or temporary piping arrangements that can contaminate your drinking water if backflow occurs.

In the event of a backflow or backsiphonage incident, such cross connections pose a hazard to building occupants and can jeopardize the cleanliness and safety of the public water system.

Examples of Hazardous Cross-Connections

Cross-connections happen when a hose, pipe or a basin containing a substance other than drinking water is connected to a potable water distribution system. When this happens there is potential for backflow, or back siphonage.

Potentially hazardous cross-connections occurs every time someone:

• Uses a garden hose sprayer to apply insecticides or herbicides to their lawn.
• Places a hose in a bucket or pool.
• Uses their garden hose to clear a stoppage in their sewer line.

There are many other potentially hazardous cross-connection scenarios. Please review the links below for more information or call or email us directly if you have any questions regarding cross-connection and backflow conditions. 

What is Backsiphonage?

A backsiphonage condition can occur when there is a drop in pressure between the potable and non-potable supply piping. For example, during firefighting operations or a water main break, the City water pressure may suddenly drop below the pressure of the non-potable system. This creates a partial vacuum, which can siphon pollutants or contaminants into the potable water system.

What is Backpressure?

A backpressure condition occurs when there is elevated pressure between the potable and non-potable sources. This can happen if pumps are installed that increase the pressure above the City's water supply pressure, forcing non-potable water to flow backward into the potable water line. Additionally, boilers or other equipment that heat water and cause thermal expansion can create pressures exceeding the incoming water pressure, which can also push non-potable water into the potable water system.

What is a Cross Connection Control Program?

A cross-connection control program is an organized, legally implemented and structured program to eliminate and contain the hazards to municipal potable water supply. These programs have been implemented and are typically passed by state or local law, and enforced by the local water supplier, such as the City of Dunedin.

How often is my meter read?

Meters are read once a month on one of four cycles.

What if I disagree with my meter reading or need a special reading?

Please call Utility Billing at 727-298-3024.

Where is my water meter located?

Your water meter belongs to the City of Dunedin and is usually located underground in a meter box near the sidewalk or curb.

How do I turn off my water for plumbing repair?

If your home has a shut-off valve and you can locate it, turn the water off there before making repairs.

If you cannot find your shut-off valve or do not have one, please do not open the meter box. Call the Water Division and a Water Division worker will turn the water off and back on for you.

Water Division (business hours): 727-298-3100

Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.

After-hours emergencies, weekends, and holidays: 727-462-0534

What is the hardness of Dunedin’s water?

The water hardness is approximately 80–100 ppm (parts per million), or 4.68–5.85 gpg (grains per gallon).

Have more questions?

Call the Water Division at 727-298-3100. We’re happy to assist.