How a Secondary Water Meter Can Lower Your Sewer Bill in St. Peters

If you’re a St. Peters homeowner with a large lawn, swimming pool, or extensive garden irrigation, you’re likely paying sewer fees on water that never enters the sewer system. A secondary water meter—also called a deduct meter—measures outdoor water usage separately so you’re only charged for sewer service on water that actually goes down the drain. This guide explains how St. Peters residents can save money through proper installation and compliance with local utility requirements. Professional Gas Line Installation for Your New Outdoor Kitchen in Wildwood.

How Secondary Water Meters Work in St. Peters

A secondary water meter installs on the outdoor water line before it branches to your irrigation system, pool, or other exterior uses. The meter tracks this water usage separately from your main meter. Since water used for landscaping or pools doesn’t return to the sewer system, St. Peters utility customers can receive a sewer usage credit for this measured amount. How to Get a Same-Day Water Heater Repair in Sunset Hills.

The installation requires a dedicated water line from the meter pit to your outdoor water connections. This line must include a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) backflow preventer to protect the potable water supply from contamination. The entire system requires permits and inspections through St. Peters utility services. Water Heater Repair & Installation.

Potential Savings for St. Peters Homeowners

St. Peters residents connected to St. Peters Utility pay both water and sewer charges based on meter readings. The sewer portion typically costs more per gallon than water service. For a home using 20,000 gallons monthly for irrigation during summer months, the sewer savings can range from $15 to $40 per month during peak watering season.. Read more about Splitting Water Lines for Multi Family Units in Marine Villa (A Landlord’s Guide).

Over a five-month watering season, that’s $75 to $200 in annual savings. The exact amount depends on your water rates, irrigation needs, and whether your property uses city sewer service or a septic system. Homes with larger lots or extensive landscaping see the highest returns on investment.

Installation Requirements and Local Codes

St. Peters requires all secondary water meter installations to comply with Missouri plumbing code and local utility specifications. The installation must include: Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

• An ASSE 1013 or ASSE 1015 RPZ backflow preventer certified for the specific application
• A dedicated meter pit or vault meeting St. Peters specifications
• Proper isolation valves and test cocks for annual backflow testing
• Permits from St. Peters Building Division before installation begins

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) mandates annual testing of all RPZ backflow preventers by a certified tester. St. Peters requires documentation of this testing to maintain the sewer usage credit.

Our Installation Process

Our certified technicians follow a systematic approach to secondary meter installation that ensures code compliance and optimal performance:

Cost vs. ROI Calculator

Installation costs vary based on property conditions, but most St. Peters homeowners invest between $1,800 and $3,500 for a complete secondary meter system. This includes the meter, backflow preventer, excavation, materials, permits, and professional installation. Why Kirkwood Homeowners Keep Calling Us for Stubborn Drain Clogs.

Annual maintenance costs include approximately $75 to $125 for annual backflow testing and potential repairs. Most systems pay for themselves within 3 to 7 years through sewer usage credits, with larger properties seeing faster returns.

Properties with septic systems may see different financial benefits since they don’t pay sewer charges but still need proper backflow protection for irrigation systems.

Why Choose Professional Installation

Secondary water meter installation involves more than just attaching a second meter. Improper installation can lead to cross-connection contamination, code violations, and loss of sewer credits. Professional installation ensures:

• Proper RPZ backflow preventer sizing and installation per Missouri DNR requirements
• Correct meter pit placement to prevent freezing and allow maintenance access
• Compliance with St. Peters utility specifications for sewer credit eligibility
• Proper documentation for annual testing and inspections

Our team carries Missouri backflow preventer certification and understands St. Peters utility requirements. We handle the entire process from design through final inspection, ensuring your system qualifies for maximum sewer savings.

Maintenance and Winterization

St. Peters winters require specific maintenance for secondary meter systems. The backflow preventer and exposed piping must be properly winterized to prevent freeze damage. Our maintenance service includes:

• Fall winterization to drain and protect all exterior components
• Spring startup and testing to ensure proper operation
• Annual backflow testing by certified technicians
• Repairs for any freeze damage or wear from seasonal changes

Without proper winterization, freeze damage can crack backflow preventers or rupture pipes, leading to costly repairs and potential water contamination. Our preventive maintenance protects your investment and ensures continuous sewer credit eligibility. Replacing Old Iron Pipes in Historic Webster Groves Homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a secondary meter if I have a septic system?

Yes, if you have an irrigation system or outdoor water features. While you don’t pay sewer charges with septic, Missouri DNR still requires backflow prevention to protect your potable water supply and prevent contamination.. Read more about Why You Should Upgrade Your Outdoor Spigots to Frost Free Hydrants in Maryland Heights.

How long does installation take?

Most installations complete within 2 to 3 days. This includes excavation, installation, inspection, and final activation. Permit processing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks before we can begin work.

Will installation damage my landscaping?

We use minimally invasive techniques to protect your property. Our team restores all disturbed areas and can work around existing landscaping features whenever possible.

What happens if my backflow preventer fails testing?

We provide immediate repair or replacement services. Without a functioning backflow preventer, your system cannot qualify for sewer credits and may violate Missouri DNR regulations.

Ready to Start Saving?

Call (314) 417-7677 today to schedule your free site assessment. Our St. Peters specialists will evaluate your property, explain the potential savings for your specific situation, and provide a detailed installation quote. Don’t let your utility company charge you sewer fees on water that never enters the sewer system. ASSE International.

Pick up the phone and call (314) 417-7677 before the next watering season begins. Our team is ready to help you reduce your utility bills while maintaining full code compliance and water safety.

– Technical diagram showing secondary meter installation with backflow preventer, isolation valves, and meter pit layout

– Close-up photo of ASSE 1013 RPZ backflow preventer with test cocks and pressure gauges

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– Installation crew excavating for meter pit near existing water service line

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