Polk-Burnett uses an Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) system that sends the kilowatt hour (kWh) reading from your electric meter to the co-op once a day. This system has eliminated the need for Polk-Burnett members to read their own meters. An AMR endpoint device fits inside your electric meter and uses an optical eye or pulse to record your energy use. It then sends the information to a Polk-Burnett substation over the power lines. Each day Polk-Burnett downloads the information from the substation. That information is used to determine your monthly electric bill.
Electric usage profiles
In addition to daily meter readings, the AMR endpoint provides daily peak demand information, which is helpful when determining transformer size and power quality issues for your location.
If you have questions about your energy use, co-op employees can review your AMR endpoint information and help determine how much energy was used on certain days. We are able to provide daily usage reports so you are better able to understand when and how electricity is being used in your home.
FAQs
What happens if the endpoint stops reporting?
Your meter continues to operate regardless if the endpoint sends the reading to Polk-Burnett or not. The electric meter and endpoint device are independent of each other. In the event the endpoint does not transmit the data to Polk-Burnett, a meter technician will visit the site to resolve the issue with the endpoint.
Can an endpoint send a reading that is too high?
This situation is not impossible, but very rare. Remember, the electric meter and the endpoint are independent, thus if for some reason the endpoint were to malfunction or there happens to be a programming error with the endpoint, the fail safe is always the reading on the meter.
Can the endpoint alert Polk-Burnett if I am out of power?
After checking your breaker, it is still necessary to contact Polk-Burnett if your power is out. The endpoint helps Polk-Burnett identify isolated outages and wiring problems that might not otherwise be reported for weeks or months.