Water is a substance that you cannot do without. The water that flows from home taps is a resource for the state, for which consumption is accounted for and paid for. In order to become independent from accidents and overpayments, it is beneficial for a person to install metering devices in his house or apartment. This will improve the management of part of your household budget. The article will help you better understand why water meters are needed - how to choose a water meter and what to pay attention to.
1. Saving the family budget.
Installing meters allows you to make housekeeping more efficient. Until recently, most apartments and houses connected to water supply networks paid for water consumption according to established standards. The norm was multiplied by the number of living (registered) people. This approach often significantly exceeded the actual picture of water consumption and did not encourage owners to save resources.
If an apartment building has a water consumption meter, but such devices are not installed in the apartments, then the residents find themselves in a situation of a general approach. If excessive water consumption is noticed, then payment for the excess is usually distributed among all residents.
2. The ability to manage your budget.
Any householder wants to save on utility bills. Before you think about water meters for hot and cold water - which model to choose, you should take some measures to make savings become a reality. This:
- Put the internal water supply networks in order.
- Replace pipes and appliances that are leaking.
- Replace taps with more efficient designs.
- Calculate which is more profitable: a shower or a bath. You can use an economical nozzle in the shower.
- When using water, become familiar with the culture of being a careful user. It implies that the tap should be open exactly as much as necessary. For example, to brush your teeth, it is better to use water collected in a glass, rather than spilling rivers from the tap.
3. Be a law-abiding citizen.
The law obliges all users of tap water to install meters for their consumption.
In order for the purchased metering unit to perfectly perform its task, you need to figure out which water meter is best to choose.
What types of water meters are there?
Devices are classified according to their intended purpose:
- household meters,
- industrial meters.
Water meters are also divided into:
According to the fundamental structure they differ:
Stores sell household water meters in a large assortment - how to choose the right option for an apartment that will satisfy a specific consumer - study the product features. For example, if the device has a pulse output, then they immediately go to the settlement center. This is possible in houses where there is an automated accounting system. These devices are new generation and have a higher cost.
There are also a number of devices that are more often used in industry or in special conditions.
- Ultrasonic meters– used when liquids have aggressive qualities.
- Volumetric instruments– can take into account very weak flow.
- Vortex counters– are able to influence the flow of the technological process through their participation.
Tip: Don’t think long about how to choose a water meter. In most cases, it is recommended to opt for a mechanical model, which, at its low price, has a long service life and high reliability.
What to look for when choosing
To determine which is better to buy a water meter, you need to understand for yourself:
- what degree of accuracy of readings is suitable for premises,
- does the manufacturer provide service support,
- what are the installation dimensions of water meters,
- You should also talk about the chosen meter model with a sales consultant, or better yet, with a Vodokanal employee.
When inspecting the device, experts advise blowing into the inlet pipe and seeing if fogging has appeared on the transparent lid that covers the counting mechanism. If it appears, it means that the device was depressurized during verification. This type of meter should not be purchased.
Tip: If possible, purchase a water meter with a pulse output (even if the house does not have an automated metering system) and with the ability to switch from one standard to another. This will prevent the need to change the meter when modernization comes to the house.
You must carefully select the device, distinguishing between the purpose for cold water and hot water. The presence of blue color on the front of the device indicates that it is intended for cold water. The presence of red color indicates purpose. What is the fundamental difference between them?
- The internal components of the device for cold water are not prepared for exposure to high temperatures (designed for temperatures up to +40 ° C).
- They have different verification regimes. For a cold water meter, verification is done after six years, for a hot one - after four years.
Universal devices for cold and hot water are available for sale.
Note: Pay attention to the verification date in the product passport. The next verification will be counted from this day, and not from the date of purchase. Although it is worth noting that, for example, in Moscow, since 2013, verification of water meters has been recognized only as the right of the owner, and not his responsibility.
Manufacturers use materials for meters: copper and brass. If the device has painted surfaces, this suggests that there may be an alloy that will release harmful substances when in contact with water.
Tip: When purchasing a water meter, you need to purchase a mesh mechanical filter designed to purify water in front of the meter. The finer the filter mesh, the greater its benefits. This will increase the durability of the device.
How to choose water meters - their prices can vary significantly. The most accurate instruments are more expensive. Mechanical meters do not have such high measurement accuracy and their price is much lower.
Popular manufacturers
The topic of manufacturers is connected to the question of how to choose a water meter for an apartment.
The device must have a passport, which indicates its serial number, and a certificate. There is a wide variety of water meters of domestic production and imported products. When studying which water meters are best, reviews often mention the companies listed below.
German manufacturers:
- the company Zenner-Vodopribor (Zenner) has been operating in the market for a long time, has enterprises in forty countries,
- Viterra,
- Wehrle.
Russian manufacturers:
- enterprises of Mytishchi Heating Network. They include factories that operate using imported parts or are representatives of foreign enterprises.
- Betar,
- Meter.
Which water meter is better to install in an apartment - imported or domestic - is a question of price and quality. Imported devices are more expensive, but are considered to be of slightly higher quality. Domestic manufacturers produce products that are more adapted to local conditions, and their prices are lower.
Those who want to save on the consumption of natural resources cannot do without a special device for metering their consumption. In apartments and houses, household models are installed that are used with cold and/or hot media, that is, there are also universal options. We looked at 20 good options and selected the best water meters from them, taking into account numerous parameters. You can buy them at low prices and the accuracy of the measurements is beyond doubt.
The rating includes 7 manufacturers, the most popular on the Russian market. They have good coverage, have a transparent pricing policy and value their reputation, so they put the high quality of their products first.
Here are the companies we are talking about:
- Betar– one of the leaders in the production of energy flow meters. Its product line includes both household and industrial models designed for heavy loads. They are distinguished by their compact size, neat shape, clear dial, and resistance to mechanical stress. They are also distinguished from their competitors by a wide range of operating temperatures and a normal response to high pressure in systems.
- Aqua-S– the company produces Pulse flow meters, which are distinguished by high accuracy of readings, versatility, ease of installation and use. They can be used both in apartments and in industrial settings. The products are made from durable materials that are resistant to high humidity. They have a low risk of corrosion, leaks and failures.
- Heat and water meter– the company produces water and heat flow meters with characteristics that meet the requirements of the legislation of the Russian Federation for accounting for the use of natural resources in housing and communal services. She has a wide selection of products with different diameters, functionality, sizes, and degrees of moisture protection. Their installation allows you to forget about verification for as long as 6 years. The company’s devices can be used both at industrial production sites and at private residential properties, depending on the model. One of the popular options in its range is VSG-15-02 110 mm.
- Ecomeasure– the main activity of this company is the production of control and measuring instruments for metering water consumption, with their help it is possible not to overpay for resources. The range includes wing models made of brass, resistant to moisture and high mechanical loads. The permissible error here is 5%. They are designed for use in temperatures from 5 to 40°C for cold water and from 5 to 90°C for hot media.
- Itelma– the company offers to buy good water meters that count the number of pulses at the media output. Its products have an optimal price-quality ratio. The products are supplied to the market with good packaging, which simplifies the installation of the products. The key difference between the company’s offerings is their ergonomic design, high accuracy and durability; their average trouble-free service life is 15 years. Each flowmeter comes with a warranty of up to 48 months.
- Valtec is a brand owned by the Radiant company. A special place in its catalog is occupied by water meters, which have proven themselves to be excellent in recording the consumed cold and hot water. They are easy to install, easy to use and last for years. All this is ensured by compact dimensions, high-quality assembly, reliable materials, and corrosion resistance.
- ECO NOM– a brand under which affordable water meters are produced. It belongs to the Dukes company, which focuses on accuracy of readings and ease of use. It has both ordinary models and offers with a pulse output for connecting to a single network and receiving information in current time mode. Flow meters monitor the consumption of natural resources at temperatures ranging from 5 to 90°C.
Rating of the best water meters
When compiling the rating, the main emphasis was on analyzing the characteristics of goods and comparing them taking into account these parameters. Before selecting the nominees, we studied their reviews and recommendations from experts, and also conducted our own experiments.
Here's what we paid attention to when preparing this TOP:
- Type of water flow metering device – for cold or hot, universal;
- Operating temperatures;
- Maximum possible pressure;
- Areas of use;
- Weight and dimensions;
- Shape and design;
- Manufacturing materials;
- Dial quality;
- Possibility of remote control;
- Corrosion resistance;
- Equipment.
We also took into account the accuracy of readings, affordability of the best water meters, ease of installation and use.
The best hot water meters
Such flow meters are made from special materials that can withstand high temperatures, on average up to 120 degrees. They can be used both in apartments with central hot water supply and in industrial environments. This category presents the 3 best meters in terms of accuracy and ease of use.
Betar SGV 3/15
The water flow measuring device “SGV 3/15” is recommended for use by housing and communal services services, as it is accurate and reliable in readings. However, during prolonged downtime due to exposure to salts, the turbine may stop rotating normally. This option has anti-magnetic protection, so even if you want to, you won’t be able to cut costs in this illegal way. The water meter is easy to maintain and operate, saving the family budget.
Advantages:
- Inspection is required every 5 years;
- Sold complete with everything necessary for installation;
- 2 year warranty;
- Wide temperature range of measured water – from 5 to 90°C;
- Clear accounting of natural resource consumption;
- Does not require special working conditions.
Flaws:
- The maximum possible water pressure is 1.0 MPa.
The SGV 3/15 device is compact, which allows it to be installed in niches of small rooms, where every meter is valuable.
There are no problems when taking readings using the Pulse 15U-110, the numbers are clearly visible, and it is very convenient that they are white and red on a dark background. Reviews note the high quality of the build, but just in case, a guarantee is given for as long as 3 years.
It can be used in water supply systems of apartments, offices, houses with data transfer to an electronic device, which simplifies its management. The device can withstand pressure up to 1.6 MPa. The water meter accurately counts the number of revolutions of the impeller rotating under the influence of the coolant in the pipeline.
Advantages:
- Shows flow at temperatures from 5 to 90°C;
- Both horizontal and vertical installation are allowed;
- The measuring mechanism does not contact the media;
- Certified;
- Availability of connecting elements included;
- The weight is not big - 0.3 kg.
Flaws:
- Suitable only for measuring high-quality tap water.
The VSG-15-02 water meter is recognized as the most popular apartment meter in the Moscow region. It is suitable for both domestic and industrial use, but the media in the systems must be clean. Otherwise, the impeller may be damaged, which could lead to poor measurement accuracy. When used correctly, it shows detailed data on water consumption, down to fractions. The device is triggered by pointer and roller sensors.
Advantages:
- Suitable for both vertical and horizontal installation on pipelines;
- Protected from mechanical impact by durable glass;
- Not affected by moisture;
- Easy to install in small areas;
- Simplicity of coupling assembly;
- Long service life.
Flaws:
- May fail at humidity levels above 80%;
- It weighs a lot.
Despite the fact that the VSG-15-02 110 mm hot water meter is good and made of high-quality materials, it can still only be installed in heated rooms where the temperature does not drop below +5 degrees.
The best cold water meters
These flow meters must be in every home, because with their help it is possible to control the consumption of cold water and save on its payment, for example, when leaving home. They are not designed to withstand high temperatures and are cheaper than devices for metering the consumption of hot media. This category describes the 3 best devices according to experts and buyers.
Betar SHV-15 Betar X-15
The device “Betar SHV-15 Bet.X-15” is designed exclusively to control the flow of cold water, and therefore the maximum temperature of the coolant here is 40 degrees. This model is not sensitive to pressure changes and can withstand high values. It is easy to install and can be installed at any angle. Due to its compactness, the product is especially suitable for small spaces. According to customer reviews, it does not leak due to durable materials and special protection.
Advantages:
- Acceptable price;
- Squeegees included;
- Interverification interval – 6 years;
- Neat sizes;
- The weight is not great;
- High quality build.
Flaws:
- Dull dial;
- Too much plastic in the case;
- No pulse output.
Compared to most models, Betar SHV-15 Betar X-15 has a dial located at the bottom, which may not be very convenient when placing the product in hard-to-reach places.
Ecomera cold EKO-32
The Ecomera device is designed to work with liquids at temperatures from +5 to +40°C; it is not suitable for recording hot media. It can be used in heating networks of housing and communal services. The device body is made of brass and can withstand significant mechanical stress. The water meter is available in three sizes – 1″; 1 1/4″; 1 1/2″; 2″. The design of this model is more complex than that of single-jet options, and therefore its price is several times higher, while the service life is on average 12 years.
Advantages:
- Diagonal, horizontal, vertical installation;
- The interval between verifications is 6 years;
- Withstands pressure up to 16 bar;
- Good performance;
- Clear numbers.
Flaws:
- No color highlights on the dial.
The Ecomera cold water meter is considered the best in terms of the accuracy of the results it shows down to the smallest values. However, the device has considerable dimensions and is larger than average in height, and therefore will not be the most convenient for small spaces.
...As our experience has shown, the weight of Itelm WFK20.D080 of 0.42 kg does not create a load on the pipes, and the length of 8 cm is convenient for installation in small rooms...
Expert opinion
The Itelma WFK20.D080 water meter deserves to be among the best because of its high sensitivity; it begins to record media consumption at a flow rate of about 10 l/hour. The device can withstand elevated temperatures up to 110°C, but is primarily designed to work with cold liquids.
The device calmly responds to pressure up to 25 atm. Its use is safe for humans and the environment, since nickel is not used in the production of the unit. Among the features of the product, it is worth noting the ease of installation in any position and reliable anti-magnetic protection.
Advantages:
- Reading the indication is visual;
- High quality of readings;
- Excellent build;
- Reliable protection against high humidity;
- Great design;
- Frequent verification is not required; it is enough to carry it out once every 6 years.
Flaws:
- No pulse output.
The best universal water meters
This is the most profitable option, since such a device can be purchased to control the consumption of both cold and hot water. That is why the cost of these flow meters is not low, although their choice on the market is quite wide. In our rating we are talking about the two most accurate models.
Valtec 3/4
The key advantage of this model is its focus on measuring the flow of both cold and hot water. This meter is installed mainly in apartments. It has compact dimensions and is suitable for installation in limited areas. It is characterized by an increased calibration interval of 6 years. The sensitivity threshold is 0.01 and 0.02 cubic meters. m/h for diameters 1/2 and 3/4″ respectively. Installation of Valtec ¾ does not create any particular difficulties, but the basic kit does not include transition pipes.
Advantages:
- Warranty period 36 months;
- Correct readings even when the pipes are heated;
- Not only suitable for drinking water;
- High quality connection with pipes;
- Durable materials and reliable assembly;
- Low chance of corrosion.
Flaws:
- Not a low price;
- The installation length is not large.
Valtec ¾ deserves to be called the best water meter for an apartment due to its resistance to high loads and due to its good throughput. Therefore, it can be considered as a suitable option for industrial applications.
The EKO NOM-15-80 water meter is a household one and is suitable for monitoring the flow of both cold and hot media. Non-magnetic alloys are used to manufacture the device, which makes the structure more durable and can withstand high levels of moisture. At the same time, such operating conditions have virtually no effect on the accuracy of readings.
The product has a rotating mechanism, so it can be mounted in two positions - horizontal and vertical. Its long service life is guaranteed by reinforced bearings and a new, multi-stage media quality control system.
Advantages:
- High quality manufacturing;
- Accuracy of measurements;
- Interverification interval – 6 years;
- 5 year warranty;
- Does not leak;
- Corrosion resistance.
Flaws:
- A set of mounting parts must be purchased separately;
- Length 80 mm.
The operating temperature of ECO NOM-15-80 is 5-90°C, and the maximum pressure is 1.6 MPa, which only confirms the status of a universal device.
Which water meter is better to install?
For installation in apartments and houses, it is recommended to choose one- or two-jet household appliances. At industrial facilities, turbine options are mainly used. To make it easier to read information, they can have a pulse input. Most models are equipped with anti-magnetic protection, which makes it impossible to illegally save on water consumption.
- If the device needs to be installed in a hard-to-reach place, then you should pay attention to Betar SGV 3/15 or Pulse 15U-110.
- For vertical placement, VSG-15-02 110 mm and Betar SHV-15 Bet.X-15 are suitable;
- In rooms with very high humidity levels, Ecomera will be relevant.
- In networks with strong pressure, Itelma WFK20.D080 will be useful.
- For those who do not want to do verification often, you can take a closer look at Valtec ¾ and ECO NOM-15-80.
First of all, it is recommended to choose a water meter with the best flow metering accuracy, and only then look at its ease of use and budget. You should also take into account the type of device, since one type is intended for domestic needs, and another for industrial needs.
All apartment owners have to decide which ones are best to install in their apartment as the verification period approaches. The following types exist:
- Tachometer or mechanical water meters - the maximum service life is 10-12 years. Operating principle: a miniature turbine and a turbine connected to a reading unit are placed in the flow of the substance. Among all types of flow meters, these have the simplest mechanism. They are affordable, compact, load-resistant and provide accurate measurements. It is believed that the best water meters for an apartment are vane mechanical measuring instruments.
- Electromagnetic meters are used in 84.3% of cases for industrial purposes. Operating principle: in an electromagnetic coil, the flow of a substance produces a current, the magnitude of which is proportional to the speed. The devices are characterized by high cost, complexity of maintenance and high performance. Therefore, it is beneficial to install this meter to calculate the consumption of municipal and industrial waters.
- Ultrasonic devices are recommended for water metering in enterprises, since these types of water belong to the full-range group of measuring instruments: powerful, productive and expensive. Operating principle: the time of passage of the ultrasonic beam along the flow of the substance and against the flow and the speed of movement of the liquid in the pipe are measured.
There are also vortex water meters, but they are not recommended for installation in apartments. The purpose of such devices is to control and regulate technical processes.
To determine which device to install in an apartment, you need to compare water meters both by type and by manufacturer. In addition, it is necessary to take into account the technical, operational and price characteristics of the measuring equipment. And they depend 70% on the manufacturer. The manufacturer will tell you which one is best to install a water meter in the apartment - the most reliable companies are the following:
- – Italian water meters, verification period from 4 to 6 years.
- "Rosich" - a Russian manufacturer produces flow meters with a service life of 2 to 6 years.
- Viterra is a Canadian manufacturer, some of whose devices have a service life of up to 10 years.
- "Elster Metronica" and (Germany) - meters are manufactured under license from the Russian Federation.
- - Russian water meters for domestic and industrial use, produced separately for hot and cold water (there are few universal models and their service life is no more than 4 years).
There are other manufacturers, but those listed above are among the top five. Tell us which water meters are better, consumer reviews or expert recommendations. It is more correct to contact a commercial organization that installs and verifies water meters to get expert advice or personally go to the housing complex service and ask there.
Those who have already used specific equipment under certain operating conditions will help determine which water meter is best to install. But still, you should not rely solely on the opinions of neighbors or acquaintances. It is better to approach the problem of which water meter is best to install in an apartment by familiarizing yourself with the types of metering devices and comparing them (cost, functions, installation features, calibration interval, manufacturer and protection).
We remember: when comparing water meters, determining which ones are better, reading reviews and listening to recommendations, do not forget that the measuring device you like must be certified (approved by law) in the territory of the Russian Federation. Otherwise, it will not be possible to register it with the EIRC.
Detailed description of water meters, or Which type to choose?
Before determining which water meters are better and which manufacturer to buy from, you need to understand the classes of flow meters. They are as follows:
- Mechanical devices - insignificant measurement error, small dimensions. We will look at the most popular vane water meters, which ones are better and customer reviews about them below. There is also a division into single- and multi-jet. Multi-jet water meters are the best because these meters have more accurate measurements.
- Pulse equipment is a dry-running water meter, since its functional components and mechanisms do not come into contact with the substance. They have one significant advantage - the transmission of readings can be performed remotely. When figuring out which water meter is best to buy by reading reviews about the devices, it is worth considering that these types of measuring equipment are advantageous to install in apartments and houses where there is no access to a bathroom for reading metering data.
- Electromagnetic options - are manufactured in most cases for industrial purposes. But they can also be used to measure smaller volumes of electrically conductive substance. When choosing which water meter is best to install, pay attention to the reliability of the equipment. Electromagnetic flowmeters are considered reliable and, with proper maintenance, can last for years.
We remember: there are also turbine models of devices, but they should not be taken into account when deciding which water meters are best installed in an apartment. They are not installed in apartment buildings, since they are designed for large pipelines (high performance).
- installation method - you can call a specialist from the residential complex service or our company, who will tell you which water meters are best to install in specific conditions;
- the diameter of the device (must correspond to the diameter of the water supply pipe in the apartment) is indicated in the technical data sheet of the device, therefore, when choosing which water meters are best to buy, do not be lazy to look at the technical data sheet;
- equipment throughput.
Remember: when deciding which water meter is best to install in your home, do not forget about choosing the company that will perform the installation. Each type of device has its own installation features. For example, multi-jet devices must be installed using the correct fittings, and if the apartment owner decides to buy a vane type water meter, then it will need to be embedded into the pipeline. You need a truly qualified specialist. Our company employs experienced professionals who can advise which water meter is best to choose for specific operating conditions. 
Existing types of water meters, or Which flow meter is suitable?
Devices are produced separately for hot and cold water. These water meters, which is better to choose based on manufacturer, calibration period and price, work on the same principle. They are distinguished only by the operating temperature range:
- for substances up to 400C you need a flow meter for cold water;
- for substances up to 1200C you need a hot water meter.
When reading reviews about water meters and deciding which one is better, we do not forget that volatile and non-volatile devices are produced. The first type of equipment requires additional installation of a power source. More often, when deciding which water meters are best to install in an apartment, owners choose a non-volatile type of flow meters. It does not stop working when there is a power outage.
The most popular water meters
Most often, apartment owners, faced with a dilemma about which water meter is better to buy, give preference to:
- Tachometer (mechanical) flow meters. If the cost of equipment is important, then these are the best water meters. Vane models are suitable for pipes with a diameter of 40 mm (inclusive), and turbine models - from 50 to 200 mm. Some manufacturers produce combined devices, but you will need to call a specialist to install them. When deciding which water meter is best to buy, keep in mind that tachometer models can have a service life of 12 years (the maximum calibration period, which is important). Also, when choosing between a “wet” and a “dry” device, keep in mind that in the first case the counting mechanism is located in the water. Therefore, the best pulse water meters are dry-running - the mechanism is not subject to the destructive effects of water.
- Electromagnetic devices. Slightly less popular devices due to their higher cost. When figuring out which water meter is best to install, remember that it is electromagnetic models that are considered highly accurate - they determine the speed and area of flow. The viscosity, degrees and density of the substance are not taken into account in the calculation. But there is one “but”. In many respects, electromagnetic devices are the best water meters, but customer reviews say that they fail faster. The reason is low water quality indicators (chemical and physical composition of the substance).
If you encounter any difficulties when deciding which water meters are best to install in an apartment or business, contact our company. We will help you make the right choice in accordance with the operating conditions of the equipment and your wishes.
Since their appearance on the market, water flow measuring sensors or simply meters have been in unprecedented demand among zealous owners. The devices are used both in public water supply and in industrial enterprises.
Such devices are used both to measure the level of water consumed and to calculate the volume of sewage or liquids used in technological processes. Some meter models are capable of measuring the volume of coolant: they record not only the level of passing water, but also its temperature.
The reform of public utilities in Russia has already made it mandatory to install water meters not only for the entire house, but also in each individual apartment.
Types of devices for calculating water flow
Water meter is a device that measures the volume of liquid passing through it. The most commonly used unit of volume is the cubic meter. At certain intervals (usually monthly), readings are taken from water meters, which determine the cost of paying for water consumed. Very important so that there are no problems with utilities.
The range of water metering devices also includes flow meters, which already perform a simple mathematical operation: divide the volume of flowing liquid by a unit of time and show the speed of passage of water. They are close analogues of ordinary car speedometers.
Areas of application of flow meters and water meters very large: from household measurement of water consumed in an apartment to calculation of consumption or water consumption in large industrial enterprises.
Types of water flow measuring instruments
The range of instruments for measuring water flow can be divided into groups according to the principle of their operation: tachometer, electromagnetic, ultrasonic and vortex.
1. Tachometer type counters
Tachometer type meters have a turbine or impeller in their design. Under the influence of the flowing stream of water, it rotates, changing the readings on the dial.
Meters of this type display water consumption in liters or cubic meters. This is the most common type of water metering device, widely used in everyday life. Tachometer type counters are quite compact, inexpensive and, nevertheless, have good measurement accuracy. They can last up to 12 years. All these characteristics have made tachometer-type devices popular for installation in apartment buildings.
Also, tachometer water flow meters can be divided into types according to their design. They can be:
- compact, executed in a single body;
- separate, having a separate remote sensor and information display device.
The design should be determined after choosing the location for installing the measuring device. If you can provide easy access to the meter installation site, then it makes sense to purchase a simpler, compact monoblock device. But if the installation location of the device is located outside the direct access zone, it is better to equip the system with a meter with a remote sensor and move the information display device to a place convenient for you.
Water flow meters, depending on the modification, can measure flow in one pipeline or in several, respectively, be multi-channel and single-channel. How to install , You can in our article.
The choice between devices of this type also depends on the characteristics of the water supply system in your home. If you have one input water supply pipeline, then you can get by with a single-channel meter. A multi-channel device can be installed if there are several water supply pipelines, for example from the main water supply and your own backup well. In this case, after some time you will be able to conduct a comparative analysis of the volume of water consumed.
1.1. Vane tachometer counters
For household devices, the most common design is with a wing mechanism for measuring water volume. Their internal cross-section usually does not exceed 4 centimeters, and the maximum throughput is no more than 15 cubic meters per hour. Thus, they almost perfectly meet the requirements for domestic water meters.
1.2. Tachometer counters with turbine mechanism
If you intend to measure large volumes, then you can pay attention to tachometer meters with a turbine mechanism. They have an internal cross-section of up to 10 centimeters and can measure large water flows.
When choosing a device of this type, you need to pay attention to the way they are installed. They can be designed for horizontal or vertical installation; in addition, there are devices on the market with a universal installation method.
Tachometer devices are also divided into “wet” and “dry” based on the method of manufacturing the measuring block.
In devices "wet" type the passing fluid flow acts directly on the impeller or turbine. Thus, such devices become very sensitive to the quality of flowing water. If there are foreign impurities in it, they will quickly damage the measuring mechanism.
Therefore, “wet” meters should not be installed to measure the volume of water lifted from a domestic well (Abyssinian well) or to measure coolant flow in heating systems. In such designs it is necessary to use a counter "dry" type, in which the measuring unit is isolated from the water flow.
"Dry" water meter
To increase the measurement accuracy inside the tachometer device, the water flow can be divided into several jets. As a result, the turbulence of the water in the flow is reduced. Such counters are called multi-jet; the complexity of their design determines their higher price compared to single-jet ones.
Where are tachometer type meters installed?
As a rule, the inlet pipeline in an ordinary Russian apartment has a cross-section of about 2 centimeters. As a result, to record water consumption in the apartment, you should install a conventional single-jet water meter. This will be the best choice in terms of price-quality ratio.
If you need to install a measuring device in a cottage or small building, it is better to use a multi-jet meter with an internal cross-section of up to 5 centimeters.
Larger models (meters with turbines with an internal cross-section of more than 5 centimeters) are installed in industrial enterprises and at water intake points. Such meters can be installed as common meters in apartment buildings.
A fairly promising product is tachometer type counters equipped with a pulse output. They have a measuring unit that can be installed directly at the entry point of the pipeline. The received information is converted into pulse form and transmitted via communication channels to recording equipment. The information collection unit can be located at almost any distance from the measuring unit, which makes it possible to create distributed information collection systems that do not require the physical presence of a controller near the meter.
2. Electromagnetic type meters
Electromagnetic type meters are commonly used in industrial installations. When a liquid flow passes through an artificially created magnetic field, its indicators change, which is recorded by sensors and displayed on the display. The complexity of the design causes the increased price of devices of this type. Typically, such equipment is used in food processing plants, breweries, pharmaceutical factories, and for measuring waste flows in sewer systems.
3. Ultrasonic type meters
Ultrasonic meters measure liquid flow by exposing it to ultrasonic vibrations. The resulting acoustic effect is analyzed by the sensor and displayed on the display. Such flow meters can be used not only to measure water flow, but also to calculate the volume of gases, steam or reagents.
Such meters can be placed either directly in the pipe or on its surface. The surface installation method allows you to quickly change the location of the measuring device. Thus, a surface ultrasonic meter can be used to perform temporary monitoring or calibration of readings from other devices.
Typically, ultrasonic meters are used on industrial equipment and for measuring the volume of wastewater.
4. Vortex counters
Vortex type meters have in their design a body with a special shape, which causes the appearance of vortices in the fluid flow. The resulting result is analyzed and displayed. These devices are used to regulate technological operations and their use for domestic purposes is irrational.
5. Meters for measuring the volume of hot water
A separate type should include measuring devices designed to estimate the volume of hot water. First of all, it should be noted that they have a higher error, which can reach up to 6 percent, while the error of tachometer-type cold water meters does not exceed 5 percent. Thus, meters should be used strictly for their intended purpose and installed exclusively on hot water supply pipelines. Also, measuring devices for hot water must be of the “dry” type - hot water carries many impurities.
For a more objective measurement of the volume of hot water supplied, devices with a temperature sensor are used, which not only measure the volume of passing liquid, but also determine its temperature.
Basic designations
In order to understand what a particular number in the characteristics of water meters means, you should know the basic symbols used.
- Qmax– the maximum volume of liquid that the meter can pass in one hour.
- Qn– nominal volume of liquid. Typically half the maximum volume. This indicator is a design indicator - when passing such a volume, the meter will operate normally throughout its entire service life.
- Qmin– the minimum volume of liquid through which the meter will operate within the indicated error.
- Qt— transition volume, the passage of which changes the measurement error of the meter.
All of these characteristics are usually measured in cubic meters.
Selection and
When choosing a location for placing a device for measuring water volume, provide a straight entrance section of at least five diameters in length.
in the apartment
If your system has large fluctuations in water flow, it is advisable to install a combined water meter. It consists of a device with a vane measuring unit for measuring small volumes and an additional turbine measuring unit, which is activated when the volume of liquid being moved increases. The change in flow direction is controlled by a pressure valve.
When purchasing a meter, pay attention to its class. It is designated by the Latin letters A-D. As the class increases, the cost of the device increases, so consult your water supply organization about which class of meter is sufficient for installation in your house or apartment.
Which counter should I choose?
Ultimately, the choice of a water consumption meter depends on the purpose of installing the measuring device.
- For installation in an apartment, in order to measure the volume of cold water consumed, the simplest meter is suitable - a tachometer type, with a “wet” design scheme, with a measurement class agreed upon with the management company.
- To measure the volume of supplied hot water, it is better to also choose a tachometer meter, but one with a “dry” design that protects the measuring unit from the destructive effects of impurities.
- If you are installing a meter on a water supply pipeline in a system with sudden changes in consumption flow (for example, at a car wash), then it is wiser to choose a combined meter.
- When choosing a common meter for an apartment building or one installed in a hard-to-reach place, you can choose a meter with a remote sensor.
Prices for water meters
water meter
To learn more about the range of water meters, watch the training video.
Video - Which water meters are better?
The classification of meters is mainly based on the design of the mechanism for metering consumed water.
- Tachometer. The design of the device uses an impeller or turbine installed in a chamber within which a flow of water moves.
- Electromagnetic. The operating principle is based on the interaction of a magnetic field and moving water, in which charged particles are always present.
- Vortex. A streamlined body (usually two, equidistant from each other) is placed inside the chamber through which the water flow moves. The fluid pressure before this body is always greater than after it. Measuring the pressure difference and changing its frequency is proportional to the water flow.
- Ultrasonic. The fluid flow passes through ultrasonic waves. By analyzing acoustic vibrations, the meter shows the flow rate.
The simplest way to work is the tachometer class. It is the meters of this group that are installed in apartments and private houses. Their design feature is a part that is located inside the fluid passage chamber. This is either an impeller connected to the counting mechanism by a vertical axis, or a turbine, the axis of which is horizontal.
Both subgroups include devices with and without pulse output. If the meter is installed on a pipe, the approach to which is free, that is, readings can be taken visually, then there is no need for a pulse output. Both turbine and vane versions are divided into “wet” and “dry” types of action. In the first case, the entire mechanism for calculating water flow, together with the impeller or turbine, is located in the water, that is, in a chamber through which liquid is passed.
In the second case, both units are located in different chambers: the impeller (turbine) in the water, the counting mechanism in the dry compartment. They are connected by an axis hermetically installed in the partition between the chambers. It should be noted that the partition is made of non-magnetic material. This makes it possible to avoid salt deposits, which extends the life of the device.
Water meters with an impeller are divided into two groups: single-jet and multi-jet. In the design of the latter, longitudinal partitions are installed in front of the chamber where the impeller is mounted, which divide the water flow into several small streams. Thus, a reduction in the turbulence error of the moving mass of water is achieved. Hence the accuracy of the device readings.
Single-jet water meters are compact devices that can pass a small volume of water through them. Therefore, they are installed inside apartments and small cottages. Multi-jet meters are larger metering devices, so they can be installed either in the water supply of a large private house, or as a common household device in apartment buildings. “Dry” and multi-jet water meters are more expensive, but their readings are more accurate. This relates to the question of which water meter is best to install in an apartment.
As for turbine devices, this group is mainly divided according to the method of recording the volume of flowing water. This is a mechanical method and induction.
More recently, both types were also divided according to the installation method: vertical or horizontal. Currently, manufacturers offer universal metering devices that can be installed in both positions. And at the same time they accurately show the volume of water consumed.