You’ve decided to install submeters on your cooling tower to pursue sewer credits \u2014 good decision. But now you need to figure out who does the work. Do you call a plumber? A mechanical engineer? Both? The answer depends on your local utility’s requirements and the complexity of your installation, but for most commercial buildings, the process is simpler than you might expect.<\/p>\n
For the physical installation of the meter itself, you need a licensed plumber. They’ll cut into the pipe, install the meter body with appropriate fittings, ensure proper flow direction and straight-pipe requirements are met, and verify there are no leaks. This is skilled plumbing work that requires someone who understands commercial water systems, pipe sizing, and local plumbing codes.<\/p>\n
An engineer’s involvement is typically needed only in two scenarios: when your local utility requires a professional engineer (PE) to stamp the sewer credit application or submeter documentation, or when the installation involves complex piping modifications that affect building water distribution. For a straightforward meter installation on an existing cooling tower makeup line, engineering involvement is usually optional \u2014 helpful for planning, but not required for the physical work.<\/p>\n
Some municipalities require a licensed professional engineer to certify your submeter installation as part of the sewer credit application<\/a>. This typically means the engineer provides a stamped drawing showing the meter location relative to the building’s plumbing system, certifies that the meter specifications are appropriate for the expected flow rates, and signs off on the accuracy of the metering arrangement. This doesn’t mean the engineer physically installs the meter \u2014 they review and certify the installation.<\/p>\n Cities that require engineering certification include some of the larger municipalities where sewer credit programs involve substantial dollar amounts. The EPA’s WaterSense program<\/a> notes that submetering requirements vary significantly by jurisdiction, which is why checking your specific utility’s requirements before starting any work is essential.<\/p>\n If you’re managing a building in a city that requires engineering signoff, budget $1,500 to $3,000 for the engineering review and certification. This is separate from the plumbing installation cost. Some mechanical engineering firms that specialize in commercial water systems can handle both the engineering review and the plumbing coordination as a single scope of work, which streamlines the process.<\/p>\n Not every plumber has experience with commercial submeter installations. Look for a licensed commercial plumber \u2014 not a residential specialist \u2014 with experience in mechanical room work. Ideally, they’ll have installed water meters before and understand the straight-pipe requirements that affect meter accuracy. Ask whether they’ve done cooling tower submeter installations<\/a> specifically.<\/p>\n A good commercial plumber will review your piping layout before providing a quote, identify any access challenges or pipe modifications needed, recommend a meter type and size based on your pipe diameter and expected flow rates, and schedule the work to minimize building disruption \u2014 including whether a system shutdown is needed.<\/p>\n Some facility managers consider installing submeters themselves to save on labor costs. This is strongly discouraged for several reasons. First, most jurisdictions require a licensed plumber for any modification to a commercial water system. Second, improper installation can produce inaccurate readings that undermine your sewer credit application. Third, if a self-installed meter causes a water leak or system problem, your building insurance may not cover the damage. The Department of Energy<\/a> recommends professional installation for all water metering equipment in commercial and institutional buildings.<\/p>\n The exception is ultrasonic clamp-on meters, which mount on the outside of the pipe without cutting into it. Some facility managers with mechanical aptitude install these themselves, though having a professional verify the installation ensures the readings are accurate.<\/p>\n RPM Water Equity Solutions helps commercial facilities recover money lost to sewer billing assumptions. If your building has cooling towers, you may be paying sewer charges on water that never reaches the sewer system.<\/p>\nFinding the Right Plumber<\/h2>\n
The DIY Question<\/h2>\n
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