How a Secondary Irrigation Meter Can Lower Your Monthly Water Bill in Oak Ridge
Oak Ridge homeowners with large lawns often overpay for sewage fees on water that never enters the sewer system. A secondary irrigation meter tracks outdoor water use separately so you only pay sewer charges on water that actually goes down your drains. This one-time installation can cut your monthly water bill by 20 to 40 percent depending on your irrigation needs.. Read more about How Installing a Smart Water Shut-off Valve Can Lower Your Insurance in Lake Nona.
What is a Secondary Irrigation Meter?
A secondary irrigation meter is a separate water meter installed to measure water used exclusively for outdoor irrigation, pools, or other non-sewer uses. The meter connects to your main water line before it enters your home. When installed correctly with a backflow preventer, it records only the water that flows to your sprinklers or outdoor spigots.
The key benefit is that OUC and Orange County Utilities do not charge sewer fees on water measured by this secondary meter. Since sewer charges often equal or exceed the cost of the water itself, separating these uses can lead to substantial savings. OUC Water Conservation.
Benefits for Orlando Homeowners
Homeowners in Oak Ridge and surrounding areas see the biggest savings because Central Florida’s high summer temperatures drive heavy irrigation use. A typical quarter-acre lot with a standard irrigation system uses 10,000 to 15,000 gallons per month during peak season. At current OUC rates, that outdoor water can cost $30 to $50 in sewer fees alone. Florida Administrative Code Rule 62-555.360.
Beyond the direct cost savings, a secondary meter helps you track water usage more accurately. You can see exactly how much water your lawn consumes and adjust your irrigation controller to avoid waste. This supports Florida’s water conservation goals while keeping your landscape healthy.
The OUC and Orange County Permitting Process
Installing a secondary irrigation meter requires permits from both the utility and the local building department. For OUC customers, you must first submit an application to OUC Water Conservation. They review your property and determine if a second meter is allowed. If approved, you receive a permit number to give to your plumber.
Your licensed plumber then pulls a Plumbing Permit from Orange County Building Services. The permit ensures the installation meets Florida Building Code requirements for potable water systems. After installation, OUC inspects the meter and backflow preventer before activating service. Orange County Building Services.
Orange County charges a permit fee of approximately $150 to $200 depending on the scope. OUC may also charge a meter installation fee of $100 to $150. These upfront costs are typically recovered within 12 to 18 months through lower monthly bills.
Installation Requirements and Backflow Prevention
Florida Administrative Code Rule 62-555.360 requires a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer on all secondary meters. This device stops contaminated water from flowing back into the public supply. The backflow preventer must be tested annually by a certified tester and tagged with a compliance sticker.
The meter and backflow preventer are housed in a green plastic meter box installed in your yard near the main water line. Your plumber must dig a trench to connect the new line, which usually requires cutting into the existing service line. The work typically takes four to six hours for a straightforward installation.
According to the Florida Building Code Plumbing Section 454.6, all new water service lines must be protected from physical damage and installed at proper depth. This prevents freezing in rare cold snaps and protects against lawn equipment damage.
Estimated ROI and Cost to Install
Installation costs range from $800 to $1,500 depending on the complexity of your plumbing layout. Homes with accessible main lines near the surface fall on the lower end. Homes with deep lines or obstacles like tree roots cost more.
Here is a typical cost breakdown:
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Plumbing Permit | $150 – $200 |
| OUC Meter Fee | $100 – $150 |
| Labor and Materials | $500 – $1,000 |
| Backflow Preventer | $150 – $250 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $800 – $1,500 |
If your monthly sewer savings average $25, you recover the investment in 32 to 60 months. After that, the savings go straight to your bottom line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it require digging up my yard?
Yes, your plumber must dig a trench to install the new line and meter box. The trench is usually 12 to 18 inches deep and 6 to 8 inches wide. Grass is cut and replaced to minimize visible disturbance.
How long does the city inspection take?
OUC typically inspects within five business days of installation. Orange County may take seven to ten days for final sign-off. Your plumber can schedule both inspections at once to speed the process.
Which utility covers my area?
Most of Oak Ridge falls under OUC water service. Some pockets near the county line are served by Orange County Utilities. You can check your water bill or call (407) 836-5515 to confirm.
Can I install it myself?
No. Florida law requires a licensed plumber to install any new potable water service. DIY installation can result in fines and may void your utility service agreement.
What if I sell my home?
The secondary meter stays with the property. You must disclose its presence to buyers. Many buyers see it as a value-add because of the ongoing utility savings.
How do I read the new meter?
The secondary meter has its own register with a unique serial number. OUC reads it monthly along with your main meter. Your bill will show separate usage for each meter.
Call (239) 467-5554 today to schedule your inspection
A secondary irrigation meter is a smart investment for any Oak Ridge homeowner with a thirsty lawn. The upfront cost pays for itself through lower sewer bills, and you gain better control over your outdoor water use. Stop overpaying for water your grass drinks but your sewer never sees.
Pick up the phone and call (239) 467-5554 before the next watering season hits. Our licensed plumbers handle the entire process from permit to final inspection so you can start saving money right away.
Don’t wait until summer water bills arrive. Call (239) 467-5554 today to schedule your inspection and take the first step toward lower monthly costs.
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