METER PIT APPARATUS

Abstract

A plurality of water meter pit inserts and water meter pit enclosures are disclosed. A plurality of marker apparatus for the location of water meter pit enclosures are also disclosed.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/127,324, filed May 12, 2008, titled METER PIT APPARATUS, docket TZ-P0002, the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

This application is related to application Ser. No. (unknown), filed May 6, 2009 (Attorney Docket No. TZ-P0002-02), the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to meter pit apparatus and more particularly water meter pit inserts and water meter pit enclosures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Meter pit enclosures are known to house a water meter. These meter pit enclosures are placed in the ground and couple a water meter placed therein to a water inlet line and a water outlet line below ground level. The water meter should be kept a certain distance below ground level to minimize the likelihood that the water therein freezes and damages the water meter. The distance below ground differs based on the climate of the installation site.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a water meter enclosure is disclosed. In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a water meter insert is disclosed. in a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a marking apparatus is disclosed.

In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line is provided. The apparatus comprising a water meter pit enclosure; a water meter pit insert positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure; a first flexible water line coupler supported by the water meter pit insert and adapted to be coupled to the water meter and the first water line; a second flexible water line coupler supported by the water meter pit insert and adapted to be coupled to the water meter and the second water line; and at least one coupler coupling the water meter pit insert to the water meter pit enclosure. The water meter pit insert supporting the water meter. The water meter pit insert being spaced apart from the water flowing from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line. In one example, the water meter pit insert is supported by the water meter pit enclosure. In a variation thereof, the water meter pit insert is spaced apart from a bottom of the water meter pit enclosure. In another example, the water meter pit insert generally centers the water meter in an interior of the water meter pit enclosure. In a further example, the water meter pit insert supports the first water line and supports the second water line. In still another example at least a portion of the water meter pit insert has an interior and the first water line and the second water line each pass through an interior of at least the portion of the water meter pit insert. In yet a further example, the water meter pit insert provides a rigid support to hold the water meter in a first position relative to water meter pit enclosure. In a variation thereof, the first position is generally centered side-to-side and end-to-end in the water meter pit enclosure. In still a further example, the at least one coupler is coupled to an upstanding wall of the water meter pit enclosure at a first location and at a second location generally opposite from the first location. In a variation thereof, the water meter pit enclosure includes a first side wall and a second side wall opposite the first side wall, the first location being within the first side wall and the second location being within the second side wall. In another variation thereof, the at least one coupler includes at least two supports which span from the first location to the second location and pass through the water meter pit insert between the first location and the second location. In yet still another example, the water meter pit insert includes an interior having a first opening located proximate a lower portion of the water meter pit insert and a second opening located proximate a location of the water meter, wherein airs flows from the first opening through the interior of the water meter pit insert and out of the second opening.

In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line is provided. The apparatus comprising a water meter pit enclosure; and a water meter pit insert positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure. The water meter pit insert supporting the water meter. The water meter pit insert being spaced apart from the water flowing from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line and having a variable length to adjust a depth of the water meter from a top portion of the water meter pit enclosure. In one example, the water meter pit insert includes discrete lengths corresponding to discrete depths of the water meter from the top portion of the water meter pit enclosure. In a variation thereof, the water meter pit insert includes an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion being slidably engaged with the lower portion. In a further variation thereof, the upper portion includes a first upstanding support member which is arranged in a telescoping arrangement with a second upstanding support member of the lower portion. In yet a further variation thereof, one of the first upstanding support member and the second upstanding support member has a locator coupled thereto which is received in a plurality of slots of the other of the first upstanding support member and the second upstanding support member. In still a further variation thereof, the plurality of slots includes a longitudinal slot and a plurality of transverse slots which intersect with the longitudinal slot, wherein when the locator is positioned in the longitudinal slot the first upstanding support member is translatable relative to the second upstanding support member to adjust the length of the water meter pit insert and when the locator is in one of the plurality of transverse slots the first upstanding support member is rotatable relative to the second upstanding support member. In another example, the water meter pit insert includes an interior having a first opening located proximate a lower portion of the water meter pit insert and a second opening located proximate a location of the water meter, wherein airs flows from the first opening through the interior of the water meter pit insert and out of the second opening. In a further example, the water meter pit insert includes an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion being slidably engaged with the lower portion. In a variation thereof, the position of the upper portion of the water meter pit insert relative to the lower portion of the water meter pit insert is controlled by a pneumatic system. In a further variation, the pneumatic system includes an air chamber supported by the lower portion of the water meter pit insert and a piston disposed within the air chamber, the piston supporting the upper portion of the water meter pit insert. In still a further variation, the air chamber is in fluid communication with an air line and wherein the upper portion of the water meter pit insert is raised by increasing the air pressure within the air chamber by communicating pressurized air through the air line. In yet still a further variation, the air line is tethered to an upper portion of the water meter pit enclosure.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line is provided. The apparatus comprising a water meter pit enclosure; a water meter support positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure, the water meter support supporting the water meter; and a pneumatic system coupled to the water meter support to adjust a depth of the water meter from a top portion of the water meter pit enclosure. In one example, the water meter support is spaced apart from the water flowing from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line.

In still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line is provided. The apparatus comprising a water meter pit enclosure; a water meter support positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure, the water meter support supporting the water meter; and a lifting apparatus coupled to the water meter support to adjust a depth of the water meter from a top portion of the water meter pit enclosure. The lifting apparatus including a linear actuator. In one example, the linear actuator has a first length corresponding to a first depth of the water meter and a second length corresponding to a second depth of the water meter. In a variation thereof, the lifting apparatus includes a lifting arm supporting the water meter support, the lifting arm being coupled to the linear actuator and moveable therewith such that when the linear actuator has the first length the lifting arm supports the water meter at the first depth and when the linear actuator has the second length the lifting arm supports the water meter at the second depth. In a further variation, the lifting apparatus includes an engagement member operatively coupled to the linear actuator and which is engageable by a tool introduced through an opening proximate a top of the water meter pit enclosure, the tool being able to adjust the length of the linear actuator. In yet another example, the water meter support is spaced apart from the water flowing from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line.

In yet still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line. is provided. The apparatus comprising a water meter pit enclosure; a lid supported by the water meter pit enclosure and having an opening therein; a water meter pit insert positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure and supporting the water meter; and a handle apparatus coupled to the water meter pit insert, the handle apparatus extending above the water meter. In one example, the water meter is positioned at a service position proximate to the opening in the lid and a second position lower than the service position. In a variation thereof, the service position is up to about 16 inches from the opening in the lid. In another variation thereof, the service position is about 14 inches from the opening in the lid. In another example, the handle apparatus is used to move the water meter from the second position to the service position. In a variation thereof, the handle apparatus extends through the opening in the lid when the water meter is in the service position. In a further variation thereof, the handle apparatus includes at least one support member which is supported by the lid when the water meter is in the service position. In another variation thereof, the handle apparatus may serve as a brace when the water meter in the second position. In still another variation thereof, an end of the handle apparatus contacts the lid when the water meter is in the second position. In another example, the water meter pit insert being spaced apart from the water flowing from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line.

In yet still a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line. The apparatus comprising a water meter pit enclosure; and a water meter pit insert positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure. The water meter pit insert having an interior, at least a first opening in fluid communication with the interior of the water meter pit insert proximate a lower portion of the water meter pit enclosure and a second opening in fluid communication with the interior of the water meter pit insert proximate the water meter, wherein airs flows from the at least a first opening through the interior of the water meter pit insert and out of the second opening. In one example, the water meter pit insert has a variable length to adjust a depth of the water meter in the water meter pit enclosure.

In a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a water meter pit enclosure is provided. The water meter pit comprising an enclosure body having an interior for receiving a water meter; and at least one moveable marker coupled to the enclosure body. The moveable marker being moveable from a first position wherein a top portion of the at least one moveable marker is extended a first distance above the enclosure body to a second position wherein the top portion of the at least one moveable marker is closer to a top edge of the enclosure body.

In still a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a marking assembly for use with a water meter pit enclosure is disclosed. The marking assembly comprising a support; a plurality of markers coupled to the support and positionable about a top portion of the water meter pit enclosure; and a flag extending between the plurality of markers.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The detailed description of the drawings particularly refers to the accompanying figures in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a water meter pit assembly including a water meter pit enclosure and a water meter pit insert;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2A illustrates a template to provide opening locations in the water meter pit enclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates an end view of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 illustrates a bottom view of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the water meter pit insert of FIG. 1 with a water meter coupled thereto;

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternate top portion of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 6 including a yoke bar to support the water meter;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of another water meter pit assembly including a water meter pit enclosure and a water meter pit insert;

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 illustrates an end view of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 illustrates a bottom view of the water meter pit assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 illustrates a top view of the water meter pit insert of FIG. 11 with a spacer removed to illustrate a location of an opening in the water meter pit insert for air flow;

FIG. 14 illustrates a representative view of a water meter pit enclosure and a water meter pit insert having a variable length support which supports a water meter and allows a depth of the water meter to be changed;

FIG. 15 illustrates a representative view of a water meter pit enclosure and a water meter pit insert having a pneumatic support which supports a water meter and allows a depth of the water meter to be changed;

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of a water meter pit enclosure having a portion removed to illustrate a water meter pit insert having a variable length support which supports a water meter and allows a depth of the water meter to be changed;

FIG. 17 illustrates the water meter pit enclosure and the water meter pit insert of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 illustrates an exploded view of the water meter pit insert of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 illustrates a depth indicator provided on an interior of the water meter pit enclosure of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 illustrates a flexible water line which may be coupled to the water meter pit insert of FIG. 16 in a relaxed state;

FIG. 21 illustrates the water meter pit insert in a first orientation and a second orientation in phantom;

FIG. 22 illustrates the water meter pit insert of FIG. 16 at a first length placing the water meter at a first depth;

FIG. 23 illustrates the water meter pit of FIG. 16 at a second length shorter than the first length of FIG. 22 and placing the water meter at a second, deeper depth;

FIG. 24 is a representative view of the water meter pit insert of FIG. 16 to illustrate air flow through the interior of the water meter pit insert;

FIG. 25 is a representative view of the water meter pit insert of FIG. 16 to illustrate air flow through the interior of the water meter pit insert;

FIG. 26 illustrates a side view of an alternate lower support of the water meter pit insert of FIG. 16;

FIG. 27 illustrates an alternate upper support of the water meter pit insert of FIG. 16 supporting more than one water meter;

FIG. 28 illustrates a representative view of a water meter pit enclosure and a water meter pit insert having a support which supports a water meter and a lifting apparatus coupled to the support to change a depth of the water meter;

FIG. 29 illustrates a water meter pit enclosure having a portion removed to illustrate a water meter pit insert having a variable length support which supports a water meter and allows a depth of the water meter to be changed and a handle apparatus;

FIG. 30 illustrates the coupling of the handle apparatus to the water meter pit insert;

FIG. 31 illustrates a positioning of an upper portion of the handle apparatus of FIG. 29 when the water meter pit insert is in a lowered position;

FIG. 32 illustrates a portion of the water meter pit insert of FIG. 29;

FIG. 33 illustrates the handle apparatus of FIG. 29 passing through an opening in a lid of the water meter pit enclosure of FIG. 29;

FIG. 34 illustrates the handle apparatus of FIG. 29 being supported by the lid of the water meter pit enclosure when the water meter is in a raised position;

FIG. 35 illustrates the handle apparatus rotated from the position of FIG. 34 to a side of the opening of the lid of the water meter pit enclosure;

FIG. 36 is a side view of the assembly of FIG. 29 with the handle apparatus in the position shown in FIG. 35 positioning the water meter in a service position;

FIG. 37 illustrates a water meter pit enclosure having markers attached to an exterior of the water meter pit enclosure, the markers being moveable relative to the water meter pit enclosure;

FIG. 38 illustrates the water meter pit enclosure of FIG. 37 with the markers in a raised position and with a flag coupled to the markers;

FIG. 39 illustrates the water meter pit enclosure of FIG. 38 placed in a hole in the ground and the markers placed in a raised position;

FIG. 40 illustrates a water meter pit enclosure having a fluid conduit in fluid communication with two portions of the water meter enclosure;

FIG. 41 illustrates the system of FIG. 40 wherein the fluid conduit terminates proximate a water meter within the water meter enclosure;

FIGS. 42-44 illustrate a water meter pit enclosure and a removable marker apparatus.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Unless stated otherwise the drawings are proportional.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the invention described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Rather, the embodiments selected for description have been chosen to enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. Although the disclosure is described as in the context of water meter placement, it should be understood that the concepts presented may be used in various applications and should not be limited to use in connection with water meter placement.

Referring to FIG. 1, an exemplary water meter pit enclosure 100 is shown. Water pit enclosure 100 includes a first lower opening 102 to receive an inlet water line 104 (which when installed is coupled to a water source 306 such as a municipality water line (see FIG. 14)) and a second lower opening 106 to receive an outlet water line 108 (which when installed is coupled to a water user 308 such as a building (see FIG. 14)). Water pit enclosure 100 is located in the ground such that an upper portion 110 is generally at ground level and openings 102 and 106 are below ground level. Upper portion 110 includes a recess 112 to receive a cover (not shown). The cover may be removable and/or may include an access door. Additional details regarding water pit enclosure 100 may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,747,687 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,164,131, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein. Water pit enclosure 100 is an exemplary water meter pit. The water pit insert 120 illustrated in FIG. 4 may be used with other sizes and shapes of water meter pits.

Referring to FIG. 4, a water meter pit insert 120 is received in an interior 116 of water pit enclosure 100. Referring to FIG. 6, water pit insert 120 provides a support for a water meter 122. Exemplary water meters 122 are available from Master Meter, Inc., located at 101 Regency Parkway, Mansfield, Tex. 76063. Additional details regarding an exemplary meter are provided U.S. Pat. No. 6,819,292, the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference.

Water pit insert 120 includes a lower member 124 and an upper member 126. Lower member 124 and upper member 126 are coupled together through an upstanding member 128. As illustrated, lower member 124 includes two sections of PVC pipe coupled to a T-fitting and upper member 126 includes two sections of PVC pipe connected to a T-fitting. The two T-fittings are coupled to upstanding member 128. Although, water pit insert 120 is shown as being made of PVC sections and T-fittings coupled together water pit insert 120 may be made of a single component, such as an injection molded component. In one embodiment, water pit insert 120 is made of a non-corrosive material which will not degrade when in contact with water. Exemplary materials include polymer based materials.

Lower member 124 includes opening 130 and opening 132. Inlet water line 104 passes through an open end of lower member 124 and through opening 130. Outlet water line 108 passes through an open end of lower member 124 and through opening 132. In one embodiment, inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108 do not pass through the interior of lower member 124. Each of inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108 pass through openings in upper member 126 and are coupled to coupler 134 and coupler 136, respectively.

Couplers 134 and 136 couple to water meter 122. Couplers 134 and 136 are coupled to upper member 126 to minimize the movement of water meter 122 relative to water pit insert 120. Coupler 134 includes a valve to shutoff the flow of water from inlet water line 104 to water meter 122. An upper portion 135 of coupler 134 is rotatably to actuate the valve and permit flow of water to water meter 122 or to prevent the flow of water to water meter 122. The valve may be locked in the closed position by passing a padlock through the openings provided in coupler 134 and illustrated in FIG. 4.

Lower member 124 includes an opening 138 and an opening 140 which receive support 142 and support 144, respectively (see FIG. 5). Referring to FIG. 5, support 142 and support 144 span the interior 116 of water pit enclosure 100 and are held in place by caps 146. As shown in FIG. 5, caps 146 are positioned on the exterior of water pit enclosure 100. As such, support 142 and support 144 pass through openings in the sides of water pit enclosure 100.

Water pit insert 120 provides a stable support for water meter 122 and maintains the location of water meter 122 relative to water pit enclosure 100. Referring to FIG. 4, a spacer 150 is shown in the location of water meter 122. As represented by the location of the spacer 150, water meter 122 would be located generally in the center of the interior 116 of water pit enclosure 100. In one embodiment, the location of water meter 122 may be offset to one side or one end of water pit enclosure 100. By having at least two supports (support 142 and support 144) to couple water pit insert 120 to water pit enclosure 100, water pit insert 120 is generally fixed in space relative to water pit enclosure 100. In one embodiment, more than two supports couple water pit insert 120 to water pit enclosure 100. In one embodiment, water pit insert 120 is configured to couple to water pit enclosure 100 by other means than support 142 and support 144. In one embodiment, water pit insert 120 may be received in a channel or other feature formed on water pit enclosure 100 and/or water pit insert 120 and water pit enclosure 100 include cooperating features to couple water pit insert 120 to water pit enclosure 100.

In one embodiment, water pit insert 120 is assembled in the following manner. Upper member 126 and lower member 124 are assembled. Openings 139 and 141 (see FIG. 7) in upper member 126 and lower member 124 are made for inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108. Openings 138 and 140 are made for support 142 and support 144 respectively. In one embodiment, the openings in lower member 124 and upper member 126 are made with a template. Lower member 124 and upper member 126 are assembled to upstanding member 128. The various components of lower member 124, upper member 126, and upstanding member 128 may be coupled together with an adhesive. Exemplary adhesives include PVC cement or other suitable adhesives.

Fittings are coupled to the ends of inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108. These fittings are coupled to coupler 134 and coupler 136. In one embodiment, these fittings are threaded and interact with threads of coupler 134 and coupler 136. In one embodiment, these fittings are integrally formed with couplers 134 and 136.

Spacer 150 is coupled to coupler 134 and coupler 136. In one embodiment, coupler 134, coupler 136 and spacer 150 each include threads and are coupled together thereby. The assembly of spacer 150, coupler 134, coupler 136, inlet water line 104, and outlet water line 108 is assembled to water pit insert 120. In one embodiment, inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108 are feed through the respective openings in upper member 126 and lower member 124 until the fittings of inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108 contact upper member 126. The assembly of water pit insert 120 and spacer 150, coupler 134, coupler 136, inlet water line 104, and outlet water line 108 may be provided to a customer which assembles the assembly to water pit enclosure 100 or the same entity may assemble the assembly to water pit enclosure 100.

Referring to FIG. 2A, a template 152 may be provided to locate the openings 156 in water pit enclosure 100 to receive support 142 an support 144. As represented in FIG. 2A, template 152 cooperates with recess 112 to register template 152 relative to water pit enclosure 100. In one embodiment, template 152 has a width which corresponds to the length of recess 112 such that openings 154 in template 152 are located correctly along the side of water pit enclosure 100. Openings 154 provide the locations for openings 156 on both sides of water pit enclosure 100. Openings 156 are drilled in water pit enclosure 100 based on the location of openings 154. In one embodiment, openings 156 are formed in water pit enclosure 100. Caps 146 are placed on one end of each of support 142 and support 144. Support 142 and support 144 are passed through openings 156 on a first side of water pit enclosure 100 and are then passed through the corresponding openings 138 and 140 in lower member 124. Finally, support 142 and support 144 are passed through openings 156 on the second side of water pit enclosure 100 and capped with caps 146. In one embodiment, caps 146 are coupled to support 142 and support 144 with an adhesive. Support 142 and support 144 are made of a generally rigid plastic, but provide some flexure to assist in the assembly of water meter pit insert 120 to water pit enclosure 100.

Spacer 150 may be replaced with an water meter 122. The completed assembly may then be shipped to the installation site or customer for installation. Exemplary customers include homeowners, builders, excavation contractors, hardware stores, plumbing supply stores, and other suitable users or sellers. In one embodiment, the completed assembly is provided to the customer with spacer 150 instead of with a specific water meter 122 to permit the customer to select the desired water meter 122.

Referring to FIG. 7, in one embodiment, upper member 126 supports a yoke bar 160 which in turn supports water meter 122. An exemplary yoke bar is available from Mueller located at 500 W. Eldorado Street, Decatur, Ill. 62522.

Referring to FIGS. 8-13 another exemplary water pit enclosure 200 and water pit insert 220 are shown. Referring to FIG. 8, water pit enclosure 200 is shown. Water pit enclosure 200 includes a first lower opening 202 to receive inlet water line 104 and a second lower opening 206 to receive outlet water line 108. Water pit enclosure 200 is located in the ground such that an upper portion 210 is generally at ground level and openings 202 and 206 are below ground level. Upper portion 210 includes a recess 212 to receive a cover (not shown). The cover may be removable and/or may includes a access door. Additional details regarding water pit enclosure 200 may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,747,687 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,164,131, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein. The water pit insert 220 illustrated in FIGS. 11-13 may be used with other sizes and shapes of water meter pits.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, water pit insert 220 is received in an interior 216 of water pit enclosure 200. Water pit insert 220, like water pit insert 120, provides a support for a water meter 122.

Water pit insert 220 includes an upper member 226 like upper member 126 of water pit insert 120. Upper member 226 is coupled to an upstanding member 228. Upper member 226 and upstanding member 228 are structurally similar to upper member 126 and upstanding member 128. Upstanding member 228 is longer than upstanding member 128 due to the increased height of water pit enclosure 200 relative to water pit enclosure 100. Further, upstanding member 228 includes an opening 224 which is positioned directly below the location of water meter 122. Warm air at the bottom of water pit enclosure 200 may travel up through the interior 229 (see FIG. 12) of upstanding member 228 and through opening 224 to warm a lower side of water meter 122. Like upper member 126 and upstanding member 128, upper member 226 and upstanding member 228 are made of a non-corrosive material which will not degrade when in contact with water. Exemplary materials include polymer based materials.

Each of inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108 pass through openings in upper member 226 and are coupled to coupler 134 and coupler 136, respectively. Couplers 134 and 136 couple to water meter 122. Couplers 134 and 136 are coupled to upper member 226 to minimize the movement of water meter 122 relative to water pit insert 220.

Upper member 226 and upstanding member 228 each include one or more openings to receive support 240, support 242, and support 244, respectively. Referring to FIG. 11, support 240, support 242, and support 244 span interior 216 of water pit enclosure 200 and are held in place by caps 146. As shown in FIG. 8, caps 146 are positioned on the exterior of water pit enclosure 200. As such, support 240, support 242, and support 244 pass through openings in the sides of water pit enclosure 200. The location of the openings in water pit enclosure 200 for support 240, support 242, and support 244 may be located with a template in a similar fashion as to how template 152 locates openings 156 in water pit enclosure 100.

Water pit insert 220 provides a stable support for water meter 122 and maintains the location of water meter 122 relative to water pit enclosure 200. Referring to FIG. 11, spacer 150 is shown in the location of water meter 122. As represented by the location of the spacer 150, water meter 122 would be located generally in the center of interior 216 of water pit enclosure 200. In one embodiment, the location of water meter 122 may be offset to one side or one end of water pit enclosure 200. By having at least two supports (at least two of support 240, support 242, and support 244) to couple water pit insert 220 to water pit enclosure 200, water pit insert 220 is generally fixed in space relative to water pit enclosure 200. In one embodiment, more than three supports couple water pit insert 220 to water pit enclosure 200. In one embodiment, water pit insert 220 is configured to couple to water pit enclosure 200 by means other than support 240, support 242, and support 244. In one embodiment, water pit insert 220 may be received in a channel or other feature formed on water pit enclosure 200 and/or water pit insert 220 and water pit enclosure 200 include cooperating features to couple water pit insert 220 to water pit enclosure 200.

In one embodiment, water pit insert 220 is assembled in the following manner. Upper member 226 is assembled. Openings corresponding to openings 139 and 141 in water pit enclosure 100 (see FIG. 7) are made in upper member 226. Further, opening 224 is made in upper member 226. In one embodiment, the openings in upper member 226 are made with a template. Upper member 226 is assembled to upstanding member 228. The various components of upper member 226 and upstanding member 228 may be coupled together with an adhesive.

Coupler 134 and coupler 136 are coupled to the ends of inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108. Spacer 150 is coupled to coupler 134 and coupler 136. In one embodiment, coupler 134, coupler 136 and spacer 150 each include threads and are coupled together thereby. The assembly of spacer 150, coupler 134, coupler 136, inlet water line 104, and outlet water line 108 is assembled to water pit insert 220. In one embodiment, inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108 are feed through the respective openings in upper member 126 and lower member 124. The assembly of water pit insert 220 and spacer 150, coupler 134, coupler 136, inlet water line 104, and outlet water line 108 may be provided to a customer which assembles the assembly to water pit enclosure 200 or the same entity may assemble the assembly to water pit enclosure 200.

Caps 146 are placed on one end of each of support 240, support 242, and support 244. Support 240, support 242, and support 244 are passed through the openings of water pit enclosure 200 on a first side of water pit enclosure 200 and are then passed through the corresponding openings in upper member 226 and upstanding member 228. Finally, support 240, support 242, and support 244 are passed through the openings on a second side of water pit enclosure 200 and capped with caps 146. In one embodiment, caps 146 are coupled to support 240, support 242, and support 244 with an adhesive.

Spacer 150 may be replaced with a water meter 122. The completed assembly may then be shipped to the installation site or customer for installation. Exemplary customers include homeowners, builders, excavation contractors, hardware stores, plumbing supply stores, and other suitable users or sellers. In one embodiment, the completed assembly is provided to the customer with spacer 150 instead of with a specific water meter 122 to permit the customer to select the desired water meter 122.

Similar to upper member 126, in one embodiment, upper member 226 supports a yoke bar 160 which in turn supports water meter 122.

Both water pit insert 120 and water pit insert 220 represent inserts whereby the position of water meter 122 is fixed relative to the respective water pit enclosure 100 and water pit enclosure 200. In one embodiment, an insert may be provided that has a variable length to permit the changing of the depth of water meter 122; the vertical location of water meter 122 relative to the water pit enclosure.

Referring to FIG. 14, an exemplary water meter pit enclosure 300 is represented. Water meter pit enclosure 300 is a cylindrical enclosure capped by a lid 302 having a removable cover 304. A water meter pit insert 320 is represented. Water meter pit insert 320 includes a meter support 322 and a variable length support 324. Support 322 provides a support for coupler 134, coupler 136, and water meter 122. In one embodiment, support 322 is upper member 226.

Variable length support 324 supports support 322 and may be coupled to pit enclosure 300 or free standing relative to pit enclosure 300. In one embodiment, variable length support 324 rests on the ground 305 at the bottom of pit enclosure 300 when installed. The length of variable length support 324 or a portion variable length support 324 may be altered to change the depth “d” of water meter 122 below ground level. Once pit enclosure 300 is installed in the ground, it is desired to keep water meter 122 at a lower level in pit enclosure 300 to prevent the water in water meter 122 from freezing and damaging water meter 122 and wasting water. In one embodiment, the depth of water meter 122 should be at least 16 inches below grade, at least 24 inches below grade, at least 33 inches below grade, or at least 34 inches below grade. However, having water meter 122 at that lower depth makes it hard to service water meter 122 or read water meter 122 through removable cover 304. Variable length support 324 may be used to raise water meter 122 and/or support water meter in a raised position to assist in the servicing and/or reading of water meter 122 through removable cover 304.

Referring to FIG. 15, in one embodiment, variable length support 324 is a pneumatic support 330. Pneumatic support 330 includes a base portion 332 which provides stability for the remainder of variable length support 324. Variable length support 324 also includes a housing 334 which contains a moveable piston 336. Piston 336 is moveable in direction 342 and direction 344. Piston 336 supports a support member 340 which in turn supports meter support 322. An air chamber 338 below piston 336 is in fluid communication with an air line 346. Air line 346 may be coupled to a source of pressurized air by a technician who wants to raise water meter 122 in direction 342. By providing air to air chamber 338, piston 336 is forced in direction 342 causing water meter 122 to move in direction 342. Once the source of air is disconnected from air line 346 and/or a bleed valve in fluid communication with air line 346 is opened, the pressurized air in air chamber 338 escapes causing piston 336 to move in direction 344 due in part to the weight of water meter 122. This lowers water meter 122 in direction 344. In one embodiment, air line 346 may be tethered to the side of pit enclosure 300 when not in use.

Referring to FIG. 16, another embodiment of a variable length support 324 is shown. Also, a corrugated water meter pit enclosure 348 is shown. In one embodiment, water meter pit enclosure 348 is about 50 inches tall. Referring to FIG. 18, a base support 352 is coupled to a first upstanding support 354. As illustrated, base support 352 includes two sections of PVC pipe coupled to a T-fitting and upstanding support member 354 includes a section of PVC pipe connected to the same T-fitting. Support 322 is illustrated as upper member 226 which is coupled to an upstanding support member 356. As illustrated, upper member 226 includes two sections of PVC pipe coupled to a T-fitting and upstanding support member 356 includes a section of PVC pipe connected to the same T-fitting. In one embodiment, variable length support 324 is made of a non-corrosive material which will not degrade when in contact with water. Exemplary materials include polymer based materials. Although, the embodiment of variable length support 324 in FIG. 18 is shown as being made of PVC sections and fittings coupled together each of support 322 and variable length support 324 may be made of a single component, such as an injection molded component.

Upstanding support member 354 receives upstanding support member 356 as shown in FIG. 16. Returning to FIG. 18, upstanding support member 354 includes a longitudinal slot 360 and a plurality of slots 362 (illustratively nine slots 362A-I). Upstanding support member 356 includes a locator 366 extending from upstanding support member 356. In one embodiment, locator 366 is a pin which extends beyond the exterior of upstanding support member 356. Locator 366 is received in longitudinal slot 360 and may travel up and down longitudinal slot 360 in directions 342 and 344. Locator 366 may also pass into slots 362. When in one of slots 362 the vertical position of upstanding support member 356 relative to upstanding support member 354 is fixed and thus a height of water meter 122 is fixed. As illustrated there are nine slots 362 to provide nine discrete heights of water meter 122. In one embodiment, there are five slots 362 at about two inch intervals to provide about 10 inches of adjustment to the height of water meter 122. Any number of slots 362 may be included and the spacing of slots 362 may be selected based on the desired granularity of adjustment. In one embodiment, the spacing of slots 362 is uniform. In one embodiment, the spacing of slots 362 is non-uniform. In one embodiment, water meter pit enclosure 348 is about 50 inches tall and there are five slots 362 at about two inch intervals to provide about 10 inches of adjustment.

Referring to FIG. 21, support 322 is shown in its normal orientation. In this orientation, locator 366 is located in one of the plurality of slots 362. Support 322 generally stays in this orientation due to the biasing of inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108 which resist the rotating of support 322 in direction 370. When support 322 is rotated in direction 370, locator 366 is aligned with longitudinal slot 360 and support 322 may be moved in direction 342 and direction 344.

In order to rotate support 322, a technician removes removable cover 304 and reaches through the opening 303 in lid 302. The technician grasps either water meter 122 or support 322 and rotates it in direction 370. Once locator 366 is aligned with longitudinal slot 360 (when support 322 is located as shown in phantom in FIG. 21), the technician may raise water meter 122 in direction 342 or lower water meter 122 in direction 344. Once water meter 122 is at the desired vertical position, support 322 may be rotated in direction 372 (assuming the desired height corresponds to locator 366 aligning with one of plurality of slots 362). This causes locator 366 to enter the corresponding one of the plurality of slots 362 and maintain the height of water meter 122 once the technician releases water meter 122 or support 322.

As shown in FIG. 19, an interior wall 380 of pit enclosure 348 may include a depth indicator 382. In one embodiment, depth indicator 382 corresponds to a desired depth for water meter 122, As such, a technician when lowering water meter 122 in direction 344 knows that when support 322 reaches depth indicator 382 then water meter 122 is at the appropriate depth below ground level.

Referring to FIG. 20, in one embodiment, inlet water line 104 is formed in a generally S-shape to facilitate the bending of inlet water line 104 without kinking and without excessive resistance to the movement of water meter 122 in direction 344. This is illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23.

In general, inlet water line 104 is flexible. However, by shaping inlet water line 104 so that in its relaxed state it has a generally S-shape the movement of water meter 122 is easier. Inlet water line may be shaped by placing the water line on a template having the shape of FIG. 20 and then heating the water line to set the relaxed stated (when cooled) of the water line to the shape of FIG. 20. In one embodiment, inlet water line 104 is a polymer based water line. In one embodiment, inlet water line 104 is a polyethylene water line. In one embodiment, inlet water line 104 is a Model No. PE 3408 based BLUE ICE brand water line available from Charter Plastics located at 221 South Perry Street in Titusville, Pa. 16354. In one embodiment, outlet water line 108 is made of the same material and same shape as inlet water line 104.

Referring to FIG. 26, in one embodiment, first upstanding support 354 includes plurality of slots 362 on both sides of longitudinal slot 360. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of slots 362 are aligned on each side of longitudinal slot 360. In one embodiment, the left side plurality of slots 362 are offset vertically relative to the right side plurality of slots 362; thereby providing a finer granularity to the increments of height adjustment.

In the discussions so far, a single water meter 122 is supported. However, each of the water meter pit inserts disclosed herein may be used to support multiple water meters 122. Referring to FIG. 27, an exemplary support 390 for two water meters 122 is shown.

Returning to FIG. 18, In addition to providing support for water meter 122, the variable length support as shown in FIG. 18 also provides heat to water meter 122. As shown in FIG. 18, base support 350 includes openings 392 through which warm air enters an interior of base support 350. Referring to FIG. 22, this warm air will travel through the interior 396 of first upstanding support 354 and the interior 396 of upstanding support member 356. This warm air exits opening 224 in upper member 226 and provides heat to the lower side of water meter 122. The warm air may also contact inlet water line 104 and outlet water line 108 within upper member 226. In one embodiment, the ends of upper member 226 are capped with end caps to prevent the warm air from exiting the ends of upper member 226. This flow of air is represented in FIGS. 24 and 25.

An exemplary embodiment of the system described in connection with FIG. 18 is illustrated in FIGS. 29-33 of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/127,324, filed May 12, 2008, titled METER PIT APPARATUS, docket TZ-P0002, the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 29-33 of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/127,324 provides up to 10 inches of adjustment of the height of water meter 122.

Referring to FIG. 28, another embodiment of a variable length support 324 is shown. Base support 350 and upstanding support member 354 are provided. Upstanding support member 354, in this embodiment, includes longitudinal slot 360, but does not include slots 362. Upstanding support member 356 and upper member 226 are provided. Upper member 226 supports a water meter 122 as explained herein.

Locator 366 has been replaced with a lifting arm 400 which is coupled to a lifting apparatus 402. In the illustrated embodiment, lifting apparatus 402 is a type of linear actuator which acts upon lifting arm 400. Other suitable types of lifting apparatus 402 may be used. In one embodiment, a pneumatic lifting apparatus may be used.

Lifting apparatus 402 is coupled to pit enclosure 348 through a pair of anchors 404 and 406. Lifting apparatus 402 includes a housing 408. In one embodiment, housing 408 is a metal pipe. Exemplary metal pipes include steel pipes. In the case of a metal pipe, anchors 404 and 406 may be welded to housing 408. Housing 408 is capped at one end with a cap 410 and includes a cover 412 at the other end. Cover 412 includes an opening through which a rod 414 extends.

Lifting arm 400 is coupled to rod 414 outside of housing 408. In the illustrated embodiment, lifting arm 400 is positioned between a first flange 416 and a second flange 418 of rod 414. In one embodiment, first flange 416 and second flange 418 are washers welded to rod 414. Rod 414 is rotatable relative to lifting arm 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the portion of rod 414 from first flange 416 to the upper end of rod 414 is generally smooth while the portion of rod 414 below first flange 416 is threaded. The threads of rod 414 engage a threaded member 420 positioned within housing 408 and fixed relative to housing 408. In one embodiment, a nut is coupled to the interior of housing 408 and serves as threaded member 420. In one embodiment, cover 412 is the threaded member 420.

The upper end of rod 414 includes an engagement member 430 which is engaged with a tool 434 to rotate rod 414 relative to threaded member 420. In one embodiment, engagement member 430 is a hexagonal nut welded to rod 414 which may be engaged by a socket. in the illustrated embodiment, tool 434 is a drill 436 having a socket 438 coupled to the end thereof. An exemplary drill is a battery operated drill.

By rotating rod 414 relative to threaded member 420 rod 414 is either advanced in direction 342 or in direction 344 depending upon the direction of rotation of rod 414. By advancing rod 414 in direction 342, rod 414 is translated in direction 342 which in turn moves lifting arm 400 in direction 342 due to the capture of lifting arm 400 between first flange 416 and second flange 418. The movement of lifting arm 400 in direction 342 causes the movement of water meter 122 in direction 342 due to the connection of lifting arm 400 to upstanding support member 356. As such, water meter 122 may be raised by the actuation of lifting apparatus 402. In the same manner, water meter 122 may be lowered in direction 344 by the rotation of rod 414 in the opposite direction. The interior of housing 408, in one embodiment, is filled with a lubricant to facilitate the movement of rod 414 relative to threaded member 420. In the illustrated embodiment, a guide member 421 is coupled to a lower end of rod 414. guide member 421 keeps rod 414 centered in housing 408 and provides a limit to the advancement of rod 414 in direction 342 when guide member 421 contacts threaded member 420.

Referring to FIG. 29, another embodiment 500 of variable length support 324 is shown in a water meter pit enclosure 501. Referring to FIG. 32, base support 350 is provided. Base support 350 is coupled to an upstanding support 502. Upstanding support 502 has the same configuration as upstanding support member 354 except that upstanding support 502 only includes longitudinal slot 360, not slots 362. Support 356 is provided and is coupled to upper member 226. Upstanding support member 356 is moveably coupled to upstanding support member 502. A locator 366 is coupled to upstanding support member 356 and moves within longitudinal slot 360.

Referring to FIG. 30, a handle apparatus 510 is coupled to upper member 226. Handle apparatus 510 includes a rotatable member 512 which passes through an opening through the T-fitting of upper member 226. Rotatable member 512 is coupled to a first elongated handle member 514 and a second elongated handle member 516. Rotatable member 512 is rotatable relative to upper member 226. Rotatable member 512 is centered in upper member 226 such that handle apparatus 510 lifts water meter 122 directly below water meter 122 to provide a balanced weight.

Returning to FIG. 29, water meter pit enclosure 501 is capped by a lid 520 which has an access opening 522 therein (see FIG. 3 1). Access opening may be covered with a removable cover. Referring to FIG. 31, in the lowered position first elongated handle member 514 and second elongated handle member 516 rest against the underside of lid 520. In one embodiment, first elongated handle member 514 and second elongated handle member 516 serve as a brace to prevent water meter 122 from moving in direction 342 when first elongated handle member 514 and second elongated handle member 516 rest against the underside of lid 520.

First elongated handle member 514 and second elongated handle member 516 also serve as a handle for a technician to raise water meter 122 to service water meter 122 and/or read water meter 122. A technician would remove the removable cover from lid 520 and reach through access opening 522 to grab first elongated handle member 514 and second elongated handle member 516. As shown in FIG. 33, the technician brings the ends of first elongated handle member 514 and second elongated handle member 516 through access opening 522 to raise water meter 122. As shown in FIG. 33, first elongated handle member 514 and second elongated handle member 516 may be bowed by the technician to permit support member 532 and support member 534 to pass through access opening 522. Support member 532 is coupled to first elongated handle member 514 and support member 534 is coupled to second elongated handle member 516. As shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, support member 532 and support member 534 rest against an upper lip 528 of lid 520 to hold water meter 122 in a raised position. Spacer 150 is shown in the place of water meter 122.

The embodiment 500 shown in FIGS. 29-36 provides up to about 19 inches of adjustment of the height of water meter 122 and raises water meter 122 to a depth of only about 14 inches when support members 532 and 534 are resting against lip 528. In one embodiment, water meter 122 is at a depth of up to 14 inches when in a raised service position and a depth of at least about 33 inches when in a lowered position. In one embodiment, water meter pit enclosure 501 is about 67.5 inches tall. In one embodiment, the height of the water meter 12 may be adjusted through about 28% of the height of the water meter pit enclosure 501.

As shown in FIG. 32, a stop 515 is provided to limit the movement of upstanding support member 356 in direction 342. Stop 515 prevents upstanding support member 356 from being accidentally removed from upstanding support 502.

Referring to FIGS. 37 and 38, a water meter pit enclosure 600 is shown. Water meter pit enclosure 600 is shown as a cylindrical enclosure, but any shape may be implemented. Water meter pit enclosure 600 includes a pair of markers 602 which are coupled to an exterior of water meter pit enclosure 600 through straps 604. In one embodiment, straps 604 are screwed to water meter pit enclosure 600. When water meter pit enclosure 600 is placed in the ground (see FIG. 39) markers 602 are raised to indicate the location of water meter pit enclosure 600. As shown in FIGS. 38 and 39, in the raised position markers 602 have a flag 610 spanning between them. An exemplary flag 610 is caution tape. In one embodiment, a lower portion of markers 602 includes a stop feature to prevent markers 602 from being removed from straps 604. In one embodiment, markers 602 are removed from water meter pit enclosure 600 at a later time, such as the completion of construction. In one embodiment, straps 604 are coupled to an interior wall of water meter pit enclosure 600 and markers 602 are placed on the interior of water meter pit enclosure 600.

FIG. 40, illustrates an exemplary water meter pit enclosure 700. Water meter pit enclosure 700 has placed therein a water meter 122 which is supported by a support 702. Support 702 may be any type of suitable support. In one embodiment, one of the supports discussed herein may be implemented. Water meter pit enclosure 700 includes at least one external fluid conduit 704. Fluid conduit 704 is in fluid communication with a lower portion of water meter pit enclosure 700 through a first opening 706 and with a higher portion of water meter pit enclosure 700 through a second opening 708. Fluid conduit 704 provides warm air from the lower portion of water meter pit enclosure 700 to the higher portion 708 of water meter pit enclosure 700 proximate to water meter 122. The air is further warmed by the contact of fluid conduit 704 with the ground external to water meter pit enclosure 700. FIG. 41 illustrates the arrangement of FIG. 40 with fluid conduit 704 extending further into the interior of water meter pit enclosure 700 to be in closer proximity of water meter 122. In one embodiment, water meter 122 is supported by upper member 226 and fluid conduit 704 is in fluid communication with the interior of upper member 226.

Referring to FIGS. 42-44, illustrates a marker apparatus 650 for use with water meter pit enclosure 600. Marker apparatus 650 includes a plurality of markers 652 which are coupled to a support 654. Marker apparatus 650 is placed over a top portion 601 of water meter pit enclosure 600. Support is sized to position markers 652 around an exterior of water meter pit enclosure 600. As shown in FIG. 44, each of markers 652 include a slot 656 such that a lower portion of each marker 652 is positioned along a side of water meter pit enclosure 600 and a stop surface 658 of each marker rests on top portion 601 of water meter pit enclosure 600.

As shown in FIG. 43, one of markers 652 houses a flag which may be removed from the marker 652 and placed around markers 652 as shown in FIG. 44. An exemplary flag 660 is caution tape.

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the spirit and scope of the invention as described and defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line, the apparatus comprising:

a water meter pit enclosure;

a water meter pit insert positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure, the water meter pit insert supporting the water meter, the water meter pit insert being spaced apart from the water flowing from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line;

a first flexible water line coupler supported by the water meter pit insert and adapted to be coupled to the water meter and the first water line;

a second flexible water line coupler supported by the water meter pit insert and adapted to be coupled to the water meter and the second water line; and

at least one coupler coupling the water meter pit insert to the water meter pit enclosure.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the water meter pit insert is supported by the water meter pit enclosure.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the water meter pit insert is spaced apart from a bottom of the water meter pit enclosure.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the water meter pit insert generally centers the water meter in an interior of the water meter pit enclosure.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the water meter pit insert supports the first water line and supports the second water line.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the water meter pit insert has an interior and the first water line and the second water line each pass through an interior of at least the portion of the water meter pit insert.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the water meter pit insert provides a rigid support to hold the water meter in a first position relative to water meter pit enclosure.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the first position is generally centered side-to-side and end-to-end in the water meter pit enclosure.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one coupler is coupled to an upstanding wall of the water meter pit enclosure at a first location and at a second location generally opposite from the first location.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the water meter pit enclosure includes a first side wall and a second side wall opposite the first side wall, the first location being within the first side wall and the second location being within the second side wall.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the at least one coupler includes at least two supports which span from the first location to the second location and pass through the water meter pit insert between the first location and the second location.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the water meter pit insert includes an interior having a first opening located proximate a lower portion of the water meter pit insert and a second opening located proximate a location of the water meter, wherein airs flows from the first opening through the interior of the water meter pit insert and out of the second opening.

13. An apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line, the apparatus comprising:

a water meter pit enclosure;

a lid supported by the water meter pit enclosure and having an opening therein;

a water meter pit insert positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure and supporting the water meter; and

a handle apparatus coupled to the water meter pit insert, the handle apparatus extending above the water meter.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the water meter is positioned at a service position proximate to the opening in the lid and a second position lower than the service position.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the service position is up to about 16 inches from the opening in the lid.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the service position is about 14 inches from the opening in the lid.

17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the handle apparatus is used to move the water meter from the second position to the service position.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the handle apparatus extends through the opening in the lid when the water meter is in the service position.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the handle apparatus includes at least one support member which is supported by the lid when the water meter is in the service position.

20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the handle apparatus may serve as a brace when the water meter in the second position.

21. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein an end of the handle apparatus contacts the lid when the water meter is in the second position.

22. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the water meter pit insert being spaced apart from the water flowing from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line.

23. An apparatus for housing a water meter which is connected to a first water line and a second water line such that water flows from the first water line through the water meter and to the second water line, the apparatus comprising:

a water meter pit enclosure; and

a water meter pit insert positioned within an interior of the water meter pit enclosure, the water meter pit insert having an interior, at least a first opening in fluid communication with the interior of the water meter pit insert proximate a lower portion of the water meter pit enclosure and a second opening in fluid communication with the interior of the water meter pit insert proximate the water meter, wherein airs flows from the at least a first opening through the interior of the water meter pit insert and out of the second opening.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the water meter pit insert has a variable length to adjust a depth of the water meter in the water meter pit enclosure.