Prepaid water meters are becoming a common way for many South African households to manage their water usage. Instead of receiving a monthly bill, you buy water tokens in advance and load them onto your water meter. This helps you keep control of your water consumption and budget better. But if you’re new to this system, loading prepaid water tokens can feel tricky. Don’t worry! This guide breaks down the entire process step-by-step so you can load your water tokens easily and avoid any interruptions in your water supply.
What is a Prepaid Water Token?
A prepaid water token is a unique 20-digit code you receive after buying water credit. This code is entered into your prepaid water meter to add water units to your supply. You purchase these tokens from authorized vendors, online platforms, ATMs, or even through your banking app.
Step 1: Purchase Your Prepaid Water Token
The first step is to buy your prepaid water token. To do this, you will need your meter number—a unique 11-digit number that identifies your water meter. You can find this number either on the water meter itself or by pressing #0# on your meter keypad (if available). Most meter numbers start with “31…”.
Once you have your meter number, you can purchase your token in various ways:
Visit an authorized prepaid vendor or kiosk.
Use your banking app or online platform that supports prepaid water sales.
Purchase at selected ATMs that offer prepaid utility tokens.
After payment, you will receive your 20-digit token either printed on a receipt, sent via SMS, or displayed on your screen.
Step 2: Verify Your Meter Number
Before loading your token, double-check the meter number on the receipt or SMS to make sure it matches the number on your physical meter. Each token is meter-specific, so if the meter number does not match, the token will not work and you may lose your credit.
Step 3: Wake Up the Meter Keypad (If Needed)
Some meters have a keypad that goes to sleep to save power. To enter your token, you first need to “wake up” the keypad. This is usually done by pressing the left arrow button or another designated button on the meter until the display lights up and is ready for input.
Step 4: Enter the 20-Digit Token Carefully
Now, enter the 20-digit prepaid water token into the meter using the keypad. Take your time and type in each digit carefully from start to finish.
Double-check every digit as you type to avoid mistakes because entering the wrong digit can cause the token to be rejected.
Step 5: Submit the Token
After typing the last digit, the meter will usually process the token automatically. On some meters, you might have to press the hash (#) button or another confirmation key to submit the token.
Wait patiently while the meter reads and verifies the code.
Step 6: Confirm Successful Credit Load
Once the token is submitted, your meter will either accept or reject the token:
If the token is accepted, you will see a confirmation message on the display. Your water credit balance will update, and you can start using your water as normal.
If the token is rejected, an error message will appear. Common error codes include:
INVALID – You entered the wrong token or digits.
USED – The token was already used.
FULL – Your meter already has maximum credit and cannot accept more.
If you get an error, check your token carefully and try again. If problems persist, contact your service provider or installer for help.
Step 7: Check Your Water Balance
Finally, after loading the token successfully, check your meter display to confirm your new water balance. This will tell you how much water credit you have left.
Quick Reference Table
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Purchase Token | Use meter number to buy from vendor/online/app |
| Verify Meter Number | Confirm token matches your meter |
| Wake Up Keypad | Press left arrow or designated button if needed |
| Enter Token | Input 20-digit token carefully |
| Submit & Wait | Wait for automatic submission or press # if needed |
| Confirm Success/Error | Look for confirmation or error message |
| Check Balance | Review updated water balance on meter |
Always double-check the meter number on your token before buying.
Enter the token digits slowly and carefully.
Keep your receipt or SMS as proof of purchase in case you need support.
If you enter a wrong token, do not panic. Simply try entering it again carefully.
For ongoing problems, reach out to your local water service provider or meter installer.
Why Use Prepaid Water Meters?
Prepaid water meters are useful because they give you control over how much water you buy and use. You avoid surprises from high water bills and can manage your household budget more easily. Also, with a prepaid system, you can avoid water disconnection if you always keep your meter topped up.
Check also: How to Spot Electricity Meter Tampering in South Africa: Warning Signs and What to Do
Loading prepaid water tokens is simple once you know the right steps. By following this guide, you can confidently buy and load your water credit without interruptions. Remember to always use authorized vendors and double-check your meter and token details.
Keep this guide handy and share it with family and friends to help everyone stay connected to their water supply hassle-free.
