Troubleshooting: Tehama Non-Advancing Meter (No Consumption)

Description: This guide outlines the steps to troubleshoot a Tehama unit that is reporting "No Consumption" (zero usage) despite water usage being expected. This process isolates whether the issue is mechanical (the meter) or electrical (the transmitter/connections).

Phase 1: Verify Mechanical Operation (Non-Advancing Meter)

The first step is to determine if the physical meter is recording flow.

1. Initiate Flow: Turn on a water source (faucet, shower, etc.) within the unit.

2. Inspect the Meter: Locate the water meter and look directly at the center dial.
   

Diagnosis

• If the center dial spins freely: The meter is mechanically functional. The "No Consumption" error is likely related to the transmitter (MDT) or the wiring connections. Proceed to Phase 2.

• If the center dial DOES NOT spin: The meter is likely clogged with debris or mechanically failed.

Phase 2: Verify the Connection and Transmitter

If the meter is physically spinning but no usage is being recorded remotely, inspect the electrical connections and the Meter Data Transceiver (MDT).

Step I: External Wiring Inspection

Inspect the wires running from the meter to the Tehama transceiver.

• Look for visible damage, such as cuts, frays, or severed sections.

• Check for pinch points where the wire may be crushed.

Step II: Internal Splice Inspection

If external wiring is intact, verify the connection point.

1. Open the Splice Kit.
   

2. Ensure the wires from the meter and the Tehama Transmitter are stripped correctly and connected securely.

Reference Resources:

• Splice Kit Guide - Instructions

• Wiring Submersible MDT (Video) - Select: Wiring, Activation, and Forced Transmission

Step III: Force MDT Check-in (Magnet Swipe)

Force the MDT to communicate with the DCAP to verify it is active and transmitting.

1. Swipe: Use a magnet to swipe the MDT case at the designated location (see image below).
   
   

2. Observe LEDs: Watch the LED indicators to determine connectivity status.

   • Connecting: The Green LED will flash slowly while attempting to connect to the DCAP.

   • Success: The Green LED will turn solid for a few seconds.
     
     

   • Finish: The LED will turn off, indicating the check-in is complete.