SWG / Automated Meter Reading Project

Automated Meter Reading Project

Southwest Gas Corporation’s Automated Meter Reading project will last for approximately three years, beginning in May 2006 with a target completion date for the spring of 2009. It is difficult to pinpoint the installation date for each customer; however, we plan to install Encoder Receiver Transmitters (ERTs) according to the schedule below:

Phoenix: Completed
Las Vegas: Completed
Tucson: April 2008 - January 2009
Carson City, Nev.: Completed
South Lake Tahoe: Completed
Southern California: Completed
Oracle, Ariz.: Completed
Globe, Ariz.: Completed
Bullhead City, Ariz. and Laughlin, Nev.: Completed
Elko, Nev.: Completed
Clifton and Morenci, Ariz.: Completed
Willcox to Douglas, Ariz.: Completed
Fallon, Nev.: Completed
Gila Bend to Ajo, Ariz.: Completed
Casa Grande, Ariz.: Completed
Yuma, Ariz.: Completed
Sierra Vista, Ariz.: March 2008 - May 2008
Bisbee, Ariz.: Completed
Needles, Calif.: Completed

Below are frequently asked questions that may help answer some of your concerns regarding this project.

What is the ERT Installation Project?

During the next three years, Southwest Gas will be installing an electronic device to its customer’s gas meters. The electronic device, known as an ERT (Encoder, Receiver, Transmitter), will allow us to read meters from a remote location without entering the customer’s property. However, Southwest will continue to inspect the facilities periodically in accordance with state and federal law.

What is an ERT?

An ERT (Encoder, Receiver, Transmitter) is an electronic device with a built-in radio transmitter that fits behind the faceplate of a standard gas meter. Once the ERT is installed, meter readers will simply drive down the street to read the gas meters electronically. The ERT records natural gas usage, encodes the information, and then transmits the information to a data collection device using a low-level radio frequency.

What is the purpose for installing the ERT?

This new technology allows us to read gas meters electronically, which increases efficiency and ensures an accurate bill each month.

How does the ERT work?

After the ERT is installed on the meter of a home or business, the meter will be read accurately and efficiently from a specially equipped hand-held device or mobile collection system. When the meter reader walks or drives by the home or business, the device sends a signal to the ERT on the meter. The ERT receives the signal and sends the meter reading data electronically to the customer’s account number.

Have ERT devices been monitored for accuracy and reliability?

Yes, we have been installing and observing the accuracy and reliability of ERT devices since 1996.

Will this device interfere with other electronic equipment?

The ERT operates at a very low-level radio frequency and will not interfere with any electronic equipment such as televisions, phones, radios, wireless Internet access, or even cardiac pacemakers.

How much will this cost the customer?

There is no extra charge to the customer for installing the electronic device.

Who is installing the ERT?

Southwest Gas has partnered with contractors to install the ERTs. The contractors will carry Southwest Gas identification. Please click below for more information on your region.

Central Arizona (Serving areas in and around Phoenix, Wickenburg)
Southern Arizona (Serving areas in and around Tucson, Green Valley, Casa Grande, Coolidge, Sierra Vista, Douglas, Morenci, Globe, Oracle, Yuma)
Northern Nevada (Serving areas in and around Carson City, Lake Tahoe/Incline Village, South Lake Tahoe, Fallon, Elko, Winnemucca, Truckee, Calif. and surrounding areas.)
Southern Nevada (Serving areas in and around Las Vegas and Laughlin, Nev., Bullhead City, Ariz., and Needles, Calif.)
Southern California (Serving areas in and around Barstow, Big Bear and Victorville)

How long will it take for the ERT to be installed?

Average installation can take up to 30 minutes depending if there are plants or shrubs around the gas meter.

Does someone need to be present during the installation of the ERT?

No one needs to be present during the installation process. However, the contractors will need to gain access to the gas meter in order to install the ERT. If access cannot be gained, a door hanger will be left with instructions for scheduling an appointment.

Will there be any interruption to my gas service?

Your gas service should not be interrupted during the installation process. You will be notified if your gas service needs to be shut off.

After the installation of the ERT, when will my meter be read electronically?

Immediately after the installation, your gas meter will be read electronically once per month on the scheduled read day.

Who do I contact if I have questions regarding this project?

If you have questions regarding ERTs, please submit your questions on our contact page.