Inconspicuous yet vital, water meter pits became an integral and irreplaceable component of virtually every water supply network in Rochester, NY and throughout the US, whether it be municipal, residential, industrial, commercial, or otherwise.

Yet, despite Ford water meter pits in Rochester having a critical role in the infrastructure, most people still know next to nothing about these devices. Today, we’re addressing this injustice by sharing the basics of water pit operation and their life expectancy under nominal conditions.

How does a water pit work?

The function of a water meter pit is twofold. Its primary purpose is to act as a protective housing for a reading device, shielding it from elements, physical damage, and unauthorized access. The secondary purpose is to facilitate water meter readings and maintenance, saving the resources of all parties involved in its usage. The secret as to how meter pits fulfill both functions lies in their design and construction, as well as the methods employed in their installation.

Installation

Pits are typically deployed right beneath the surface of the ground, at depths dictated by the application and specific type of the device they are intended to house. The water meter is then securely installed on the mounting platform or system (depending on the specific build) and connected to the main infrastructure via an integrated piping system. This seclusion-based installation method largely contributes to the protection and safety of a water reading device.

Construction

Meter pits are built from flexible yet durable materials (e.g. plastic, metal, composites, etc.), designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions for prolonged periods. In addition, they can be further reinforced by adding an insulating layer around the device (if needed) for superior protection from the elements, soil conditions, and physical damage. 

Design

Most model variations feature a secure lid or cover with optional locking mechanisms. This simple, yet ingenious design allows utility workers easy access to the water meter, expediting reading, repairs, and replacement interventions. At the same time, it discourages any unauthorized tampering with the reading devices, thereby ensuring its uncompromised operation over the lifetime of the meter pit.

What is the life expectancy of a water meter pit?

The lifespan of a meter pit is largely dependent on four factors:

• Materials used in construction determine the nominal lifespan of the device. 
• Quality of installation, including proper drainage and insulation, vastly contributes to the longevity of meter pits.
• Environmental conditions, such as temperature, soil acidity, or ground shifts, all decrease the useful life of protective casing.
• Maintenance quality and regularity significantly help extend the life of a meter box.

As it can be concluded from the above, the water meter pit’s life expectancy follows a simple logic: the higher the quality of the component(s), the longer it will last. For this reason, it is beyond advisable not to skimp when purchasing water meter boxes, as top-tier ones can easily last for decades.

Where can I find top-tier Ford water meter pits near me in Rochester?

For nearly 70 years, Blair Supply Corp. has been a foremost distributor of premium water main and wastewater materials in the region and nationwide. The undeniable expertise of our team and the capability to deliver top-grade materials on time earned us a reputation of excellence from clients, partners, and industry authorities alike. 

Throughout our existence, we’ve been involved in innumerable projects across a variety of sectors, including municipal, residential, industrial, commercial, agricultural, and more. Whether your project is taking place near Maplewood Park, elsewhere in Rochester, or anywhere else in the nation, you can count on us to be an element of certainty in your endeavors. Reach out today!