Rating of the best cold and hot water meters for an apartment: a dozen models + nuances of choosing flow meters

Lists of the best

In addition to the previously discussed meter models, we want to offer you the best water meters in the following categories:

• best price;
• universal;
• for hot water.

Low price

The most high-quality and budget option was the universal ECO NOM-15-80 counter. The device works at t from +5 to +90 degrees. The calibration interval is six years for both cold water and hot water. The advantage of the water meter is its reliability, it copes with the pressure of the working medium in pipes up to 1.6 MPa. The internal parts are made of high quality plastic, thanks to which the IPU is resistant to external magnetic fields.

Approximate price: 480 rubles.

ECO counter NOM-15-80

Universal

The winner in the nomination is VALTEC VLF-15U-I. The counter was developed by an Italian company. The difference between the model is the ability to rotate the dial to the desired angle for easy reading. The build quality is at a fairly high level, all elements are carefully adjusted to each other. To prevent clogging of the device, it is equipped with a special filter installed on the intake side. The calibration interval is 6 years for cold water and 4 years for hot water.

You can buy such a model for about 800 rubles.

VALTEC VLF-15U-I

for hot water

VSG-15 is the best option in this category. It is for single-channel coupling IPU. It is installed on vertical and horizontal sections of pipes in rooms with t from +5 to +50 degrees. The advantage is the possibility of installation on small sections of the pipeline. To prevent contamination of the device, a magnetic or mesh filter is installed in front of it. The device is not affected by magnetic fields.

The cost of the presented model is in the range from 2500 to 3000 rubles.

VSG-15

Varieties of mechanical water meters

By type of reading mechanism

Vane meters are the most commonly used type in apartments and private houses. They are considered the easiest to use, durable and reliable. The main active structural element is the impeller. It passes through itself the entire flow of water that comes from the pipes to the faucet. The number of revolutions of the impeller depends on the total volume of liquid: the greater the consumption, the greater the number of revolutions. The last parameter is transmitted along the chain: magnetic clutch - reduction gear - display device showing a numerical value.

Advantages:

• Reliability and stability;
• Easy to use and mount;
• Give accurate readings
• Relatively low price;
• Can work in conditions of high humidity;
• Wear-resistant;
• Just get the information you need;
• Almost not subject to corrosion.

Flaws:

• Not suitable for large diameter pipes (more than 50 mm.);
• Sensitive to external magnetic field;
• Break quickly in dirty water.

There are two main types of vane meters:

• Single jet. In them, the impeller moves under the action of a single stream of water.
• Multi-jet. Before entering the impeller blade, the flow is divided into several thinner jets.

Valve counters. Their main feature and difference lies in the ability to block the flow of water using a special valve. According to the mechanism of operation, they are similar to vane counters.

Advantages:

• If necessary, they can be used to turn off the water;
• Easy to mount and install;
• Do not require expensive repairs;
• The process of taking readings is facilitated by the possibility of turning the indicator part in a circle.

Flaws:

Turbine meters are most often used in large industrial enterprises where it is necessary to record large water flows. Depending on the type of system for obtaining readings, these devices are divided into mechanical and induction. It is advisable to use turbine meters in large private houses and country cottages, where the total diameter of the pipeline is more than 50 mm.

Advantages:

• Capable of handling large volumes of water
• Suitable for large diameter pipes;
• Less susceptible to the negative effects of dirty water.

Flaws:

• Expensive;
• It does not make sense to use such devices in apartments and small private houses.

Combined counters combine the functions of vane and turbine meters. If the water consumption is small, then the impeller works, and if the flow increases sharply in size, the valve of the device automatically closes and water flows into the turbine apparatus.

Advantages:

• Copes with any amount of fluid consumed;
• Reliable and durable

Flaws:

Types of devices depending on the location of the counting mechanism

• "Wet" counter. In this case, the counting mechanism is not separated from the water flow in any way. Its main advantage is its low cost, and its disadvantage is the dependence of readings on the purity of the liquid; in a polluted environment, the result can be significantly distorted.
• The "dry" counter differs from the previous version by the presence of a special non-magnetic partition for the main mechanism, due to which it constantly remains dry. The main advantages are the accuracy of the readings and the durability of the service, and the disadvantage is the rather high price.

Depending on the temperature of the consumed water

• Counters for cold water;
• Meters for hot water.

These varieties do not differ from each other in anything, except for the material from which they are made. For hot water meters, they must be resistant to high temperatures. When choosing, it must be taken into account that the maximum temperature regime for cold water meters is 30 degrees Celsius, while for hot water meters this figure should reach 130 degrees. When installing these devices, it is better not to confuse them, as this will quickly lead to equipment failure.

Measuring instrument selection criteria

Which water meter is better to install in an apartment depends, first of all, on the quality of the supplied water and its composition. For water with large amounts of solid impurities and a high level of mineralization, it is better to choose a device that does not have mechanical rubbing parts. Despite this, it is important to choose the material of the working body, which is in direct contact with the working medium.

Material

The most common material is metal alloys:

Bronze and brass are strong and reliable alloys with a high impact strength, they are quite durable and resistant to aggressive components in water. Perhaps the formation of minor caverns or calcification of the ducts;

Stainless alloy steel - the mechanical performance of the material, as well as its cost, significantly exceeds alloys. In addition, the complexity of processing the final product makes such material less popular with a domestic manufacturer.

Silumin is an alloy of silicon and aluminum. Quite resistant to aggressive environments and very cheap, making it popular with Chinese manufacturers. However, it has very low strength, is fragile, and does not withstand even medium loads.It is strongly not recommended to purchase such a device.

Polymers. These are mainly polybutylene and extruded polyethylene. They are mainly used as components for cold water appliances. The maximum temperature they can withstand is 90°C (polybutylene). The scope of devices is limited.

Equipment

The kit may contain shackles, nozzles, gaskets and other fittings for connecting the device to the water supply. It is also necessary to check them for defects and compliance with the thread dimension.

In addition, imported water meters that can be selected in our stores must have a certificate of conformity with standards, which confirms that they are adapted for use in domestic networks.

Service

The main indicator is the calibration interval. What is the best water meter? - Naturally, the one with such an interval is longer. For cold water, it averages 6 years for hot water - about 4. However, for many modern models, these figures can differ significantly. Specific data can be found in the device passport. In this case, the countdown must be carried out not from the date of verification carried out at the factory, but from the moment of registration and sealing of the device at the installation site by the relevant representatives of the water utility.

Instrument location

Some obsolete models should only be mounted horizontally or vertically. It is better to choose a universal device. It can be checked by simply blowing into the inlet pipe in a horizontal and vertical position.The air should pass with the same pressure, and the numbers should change evenly, without jerking and braking.

Protection

The conditions for the security of the device are getting tougher all the time. How to choose a water meter so as not to change it after a year? It is advisable to purchase a device with a pulse output for remote control or reading of indicators.

In addition, if the device is located in an easily accessible place, it is advisable that it has a protective cover on the front panel.

Choosing a meter for an apartment

There are several types water meters, the selection of which must be carried out, taking into account the parameters of your premises.
Tachometric counters. Inside such a device are blades, they are attached to the wheel. The revolution of such a wheel corresponds to a certain volume of liquid. Such a device is compact, does not require complexity during installation or maintenance. It is used if household pipes are of small diameter, there is an impeller inside the meter. The more powerful the flow of water, the more accurate the readings of the device will be, but the error is minimal.

If you have a more accurate device in front of you, then instead of an impeller it will be equipped with a turbine. Such a counter is used for pipes with a diameter of 25 mm, it can also be used for thicker ones. In this case, the readings will be most correct with a powerful stream.
Combined models are especially distinguished: they are made in the form of a monoblock, which makes them more practical, but maintenance-free. These devices are usually placed on the highway, as they cope well with different pressures.
Water meters can be conditionally divided into dry and wet. They differ structurally.

Wet ones are equipped with either an impeller or a turbine that is in direct contact with water; when passing through the counter, the water flow rotates the impeller, each revolution of which corresponds to a certain volume of water. This is a fairly simple counter, equipped only with mechanical elements that make it as reliable and durable as possible. However, there is a minus - corrosion may appear on its internal parts. The devices are not afraid of an external magnetic field, they are inexpensive, therefore they are very popular among subscribers. However, such a meter requires that the water be clean, otherwise it may fail as a result of large particles entering it, which will interfere with proper functioning.

The dry version is not afraid of pollution, since its elements do not have direct contact with the liquid. The torque is created thanks to the magnets, so the device itself is electronic, the disadvantages include dependence on an external magnetic field, which can have a direct effect on it. The display of such a device is digital, it shows a more accurate flow rate, lasts longer, but costs several times more than a mechanical counterpart. Installation of the device is quite simple, often the models are protected by a special clutch, which allows you to get rid of the effects of an external magnetic field.

Rating of water meters - choose by quality

Please note that this rating of the best water meters is compiled for informational purposes only and does not carry advertising or incentives to action.The opinion is based on a sample of responses from master plumbers who specialize in installing and replacing individual hot and cold water meters, as well as feedback from ordinary people about using devices at home.

When analyzing all the tops and ratings of the best, it is important to understand that the reliability rating of water meters is one thing, and the efficiency rating is quite another

Yes, you can choose a water meter that will be reliable, but its cost is unjustified and too high.

When analyzing all the tops and ratings of the best, it is important to understand that the reliability rating of water meters is one thing, and the efficiency rating is quite another. Yes, you can choose a water meter that will be reliable, but its cost is unjustified and too high. Therefore, in the rating of the best, we have included water devices that are very popular among all segments of the population.

Therefore, in the rating of the best, we have included water devices that are very popular among all segments of the population.

1st place - Eco Nom

The leader of the rating of the best - 100% Russian goods. Of course, the brand has its branches abroad as well. Often there is research work, testing and refinement. However, assembly is always carried out on the territory of the Russian Federation. Thanks to quality monitoring, the Eco Nom brand has good wear resistance and a very low level of manufacturing defects.

• Low price.
• Nice design.
• Compact dimensions.
• High measurement accuracy.
• Branches of the company are represented only in large cities.

2nd place - Valtec

A well-known Italian company dealing with metrological equipment. There are no complaints about the work of their counters.

• Recognition.
• Reliability.
• Inflated price tag.
• There are fakes.

3rd place - Itelma

The second most famous (after Valtek) water meter. Also a regular guest of various ratings and tops of the best. But the problems are exactly the same. Yes, good and yes, by today's standards of roads. The increasing complaints about marriage also speak against Itelma.

• Recognition.
• Reliability.
• Inflated price tag.
• There are marriages and fakes.

4- Zenner

The eminent German manufacturer and the most expensive among the dozens. Despite the high price Zenner has its fans.

• Resistance to aggressive environment.
• Pressure surge protection.
• Overpriced.
• A small model range, which is not fully suitable for the Russian water supply system.

5 - Betar

A Russian manufacturer who decided to focus on colossal sustainability. Thanks to the materials, the manufacturer has achieved very good performance in all tests. However, due to the high consumption of brass for each IPU, the cost of the water device has increased significantly.

• Wear resistance.
• Reliability.
• A big cost.
• Serious dimensions.
• Big weight.

6 - Grand

Another firm that is constantly on the hearing.

• Recognition.
• Quick failure of the mechanism (in case of resource deviations from the norms).

7 - Meter

This ISP has both its pros and cons. Not recommended for installation if your water supply system experiences regular failures. Due to the design features, some users encounter problems. Instability to pressure drops drives him to the 7th place in the top.

• Water measurement accuracy.
• Lack of water hammer protection.

8 - Decast

What are the installation restrictions for water meters? But many Decast models will demonstrate that they are. For example, they cannot be placed on horizontal pipes.

• Stability.
• Installation inconvenience.
• Poor kit.

9 - Norma

An honestly working mechanism with its own peculiarity. Some owners note that when the water is turned on in an apartment or house, a strange sound is heard, which gradually disappears. It arises from a controversial design decision of the developers.

• Accuracy level.
• Whistling sounds when starting work.

10 – Pulsar

Previously extremely popular brand that could not withstand serious competition. He is mediocre in every way. Controversial design, average price tag on the market, marriage present in batches. But it is available everywhere and is on sale even in remote corners of our Motherland.

• Publicity.
• Having a marriage.

What are water meters, their pros and cons

Water meters are devices designed to measure the volume of water. They are installed on the supply water supply and allow you to control the flow rate of the passing water flow. The household water meter consists of a tachometric flow meter and a waterproofed counting mechanism. The presence of a water meter in the apartment allows you to pay for exactly the amount of water that was actually used.

Water meters are classified according to different criteria:

• body material;
• system type;
• what kind of water are oriented - for cold water or hot.

When choosing, it is important to consider the latter indicator. If you put a cold water meter on hot water (or vice versa), then the devices will quickly become unusable, since they are made using different technologies. Domestic manufacturers, in addition to the color of the case, make the marking of devices with the letters "G" and "X"

Domestic manufacturers, in addition to the color of the case, make the marking of devices with the letters "G" and "X".

Advantages of water meters:

• after the installation of meters, payments for water become at least 2-3 times less;
• there is an opportunity to pay for the actually consumed water, and not for a leak due to the fault of public utilities.

The installation of individual water meters becomes especially relevant for residents of apartment buildings, where there are in-house metering devices. In this case, homeowners without meters pay for draining water from risers, hydraulics, which is carried out to prepare heating systems for the heating period, leaks in the basement, etc.

Cons of water meters:

• equipment purchase and installation costs;
• necessary verification of cold water meters every 6 years and hot - once every 4 years;
• re-sealing of devices after repairing the water supply system or replacing the filter, non-return valve, stopcock, etc.;
• the need for timely transmission of testimony to the resource supply company;
• maintenance of plumbing in good condition, otherwise any leakage of faucets, toilet bowls will be counted by the water meter.

There are supposedly more cons, but they are all negligible compared to the monthly financial savings for paying for energy resources.

Operation and maintenance

Consider the procedure for using the device. The display is switched on by pressing the display button. After 30 seconds of inactivity, the display turns off.

For advanced mode, you must press the button and hold for more than 3 seconds. In this state, the water meter displays information for 1 minute, then it turns off when there is no action on the part of the user.

The extended display mode is usually not of interest to the consumer.It shows the factory parameters - the time of exposure to the magnetic field, blocking the change of adjustment parameters, the impulse coefficient and the version of the program code.

By further pressing the button in extended mode (if 1 minute has not passed), the display shows the volumes of consumed water in different temperature ranges.

Maintenance

Digital devices require periodic inspection and verification by the user.

Approximately 1 time per month:

• Check the body for integrity.
• Turn on the hot water supply and visually monitor the product in operation.
• Check tightness of connections.
• Check seals.
• Wipe the water meter from dust and dirt.

The product should be checked at the appropriate time with the help of a special organization licensed for this type of activity.

Varieties of flow meters

It would be a mistake to think that all devices are the same. They differ significantly in the principle of operation, connection conditions, accuracy, etc. Let's highlight the main points that will show which water meter to install in the apartment.

How the equipment works

Depending on the method of measuring the intensity of the water flow, the devices are divided into four types.

• Electromagnetic. Determine the speed of passage of the jet between the magnetic poles. The counting mechanism converts the data into a volume of liquid.
• Superstatic (vortex). A swirler is used through which the water flow is passed. His speed and travel time are measured. Based on this, the consumption is automatically calculated.
• Tachometric (vane). The jet rotates the impeller mechanism. It transmits rotation to the counter panel.
• Ultrasonic.Process information coming from sensors that feed ultrasonic waves into the water flow. Then they take them back.

A tachometric device is best suited for domestic needs. Provided that the operating rules are observed, such flow meters serve for a long time and do not break. The simplicity of the design provides them with high reliability. They have a large working resource and low price. Other varieties are not suitable for apartments, although they are sometimes used in everyday life. They require special operating conditions, more often they are installed in industrial conditions.

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According to the location of the counting mechanism

The counting device in tachometric flow meters can be located in different ways. Based on this, two types of devices are distinguished.

Dry (dry vehicles)

The counting unit is isolated from the water flow by a sealed partition. To transmit the rotational movement of the impeller, a magnetic coupling is used, which is installed in the housing. The magnetic field acts on the vane mechanism, which slightly reduces the measurement accuracy. She still remains tall. The readings are displayed on the dashboard.

It is possible to install a pulse output device for their remote transmission. Dryboats perform well in any environment, even water with a lot of impurities. They are allowed to be placed on pipelines with hot water. The mechanism isolated from the liquid does not corrode, it lasts longer. True, the price of dry vehicles is higher than that of "wet" counterparts.

Universal counter ECO NOM

Wet (wet shoes)

All elements of the device are in the water stream. The baffle and magnetic coupling are absent. The latter improves the measurement accuracy.Provided that a liquid purified from impurities is supplied to it. Otherwise, particles stick to the vane mechanism, which reduces the accuracy of its operation. The sensitivity threshold of wet shoes is higher.

The simplicity of the design makes them more reliable. If necessary, repairs are possible. Wet walkers can be installed in different positions: horizontally, vertically or at an angle. Options are listed on their case. The main disadvantage is the sensitivity to the quality of the measured liquid. Therefore, a filter must be installed before the wet water meter.

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The choice of which water meter is better to install in the apartment: dry-running or wet-running, it is right to do in favor of the first. They can work in any environment and last longer. The measurement accuracy is high and does not depend on the quality of the liquid.

Difference between DHW and cold water meters

Their operating principle is the same. The difference lies in the operating conditions. DHW equipment is designed to work with a liquid heated to high temperatures. Wear-resistant materials are chosen for its manufacture. It has more durable components and body. At the same time, the measurement error for such water meters is greater. Therefore, the verification period for them comes earlier than for devices for CHC.

The equipment is partially interchangeable. This can come in handy when choosing which cold water meter to install in an apartment. Here you can install any device. This will not affect the quality of measurements and the term of work. True, DHW water meters are more expensive and more often tested. It is allowed to mount only special flow meters on hot water supply. Incorrect installation of a cold water device will lead to leakage and measurement distortion.The case should have a red color marking and the letter "G". This must be taken into account when choosing which hot water meter to install.

Tachometric counters

This type of water meters is the most common. They operate on a simple principle.

Principle of operation and design

The main element of the counter is the impeller. It has a perpendicular orientation of its axis with respect to the direction of the water supply. The nominal diameter of this type of device does not exceed 50 mm.

Install tachometric meters to measure the flow of both cold and hot water, if we are talking about small volumes. These water meters are not designed for high flow rates.

When an avalanche of water passes through the impeller in transit, a circle is made. Each is accompanied by the overflow of a certain amount of liquid through the device. The more pressure the water creates, the faster the impeller spins.

A sensitive counting mechanism receives information about the number of revolutions through the gearbox, and all changes are shown on the dial.

Devices with an impeller are single-jet, multi-jet, combined. In the first, water is supplied to the input blades by one stream. A torsional impulse is sent to the indicator of the counting unit by a magnetic coupling. Experts advise mounting such meters on hot water pipelines with a cross section of 15 to 30 mm.

In multi-jet models, the flow is divided into parts on the way to the impeller. The measurement error is reduced, because. there is an impact on the blades of the same force. This completely eliminates the turbulence of the flow.

When the coverage of water use measurements needs to be extended, a combined type tachometric device is installed. It is understood that with a change in the flow rate, some one counter comes into operation. The transition takes place automatically.

The combined counter consists of the main and additional device. The first is activated by opening the valve when large volumes of water are consumed.

There is only one measuring unit, it has high accuracy, is sealed, so it works even in flooding conditions. For DN pipes more than 50 mm, a rotating impeller is placed in the design of the device instead of an impeller. The water meter in this case is installed along the axis of the line. The ideal place for its installation is at the entrance.

Such meters are mounted on pipelines of industrial enterprises with a cross section of up to 500 mm where significant volumes of water pass. The direction and angle of the flow is determined by a special fairing.

Pros and cons

Mechanical water meters are compact. They can be mounted in remote places, so they do not spoil the interior of the room. The simplicity of the design allows these devices to be set at an acceptable price for most consumers. The error in their readings is insignificant.

Tachometric counters are non-volatile devices. The main element in their design is the impeller placed in the water. According to the number of revolutions that it makes, consider the volume of water

The negatives include the following:

• blade wear;
• sensitivity to impurities present in water;
• dependence of water meter readings on the magnetic field;
• the inability to fix the instantaneous consumption;
• the presence of moving elements in the flow chamber.

Despite the presence of shortcomings, if you follow the verification schedule, the meter can last up to 12 years. The device does not require external power supply to operate.

Dry and wet devices

Based on the location of the counting device, then tachometric water meters are divided into dry and wet. In the first case, the liquid does not affect the counting mechanism in any way. The rotational movement from the impeller is communicated to it by means of a special magnetic coupling.

An impenetrable partition protects the mechanism from corrosion. The model has a rather high cost, but it can be used even where hot water is supplied, in which foreign impurities are present in large quantities.

In addition, the accuracy of the readings of such a device is very high. If there is a need for remote data acquisition, a pulse output device can be included in the system.

Mount the pulse output unit directly at the inlet of the pipeline. The information transformed into an impulse enters the recording device

The module that collects information can be located at any distance from the measurement node.

In a wet-flow instrument, the counting unit is in constant contact with dirty liquid. This negatively affects the duration of his service. To correct the situation, a filter is mounted in front of the counter.

Better water meters up to 1000 rubles

If you need to calculate which economy class water meter is better, use the ready-made rating of budget models with high technical characteristics.

Betar SHV 15

This device has a simple design, but at the same time it has an important distinguishing feature - it can be installed at any inclination or angle.The operating temperature of the device varies from +5°C to +40°C, pressure - up to 10 bar.

Betar SHV 15

The manufacturer gives a guarantee of up to 6 years. SHV 15 is used only for a cold water supply system, which is a disadvantage. And the advantages of the model are the ability to install in different positions, a large pressure range, a long service life and affordable cost - 700-800 rubles.

Operating instructions for Betar SHV 15

Meter SVU-15

This is a universal water meter that is able to work in combination with a cold and hot water supply system. When connected to hot water, the operating temperature range varies from +5°С to +100°С.

METER SVU-15 (with antimagnetic protection)

There is a system of protection against leaks, as well as from the effects of external magnetic fields. The vane counter costs 500-600 rubles. Due to the simple design, the model is easy to install. It is of high build quality and durability. There is only one drawback - the lack of decals. The user needs to independently mark the "cold" and "hot" variations.

Operating Instructions METER SVU-15

Itelma WFW20 D080

The German device is considered one of the most popular among consumers. This factor is justified not only by the good build quality, but also by the possibility of transmitting a signal about fluid consumption at a distance. To do this, you need to install additional impulse add-ons.

Itelma WFW20 D080

Pulse water meters are great for office buildings, administrative offices or government inspections. The set includes two paronite gaskets, as well as a seal. According to the reviews of the owners, such a model can serve more than 10 years.The price of a winged launcher is 710-750 rubles.

Itelma WFW20 D080 user manual

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. In order to facilitate the reading of information, they can have a pulse input. Most models are equipped with anti-magnetic protection, in which it is illegal to save on water consumption.

The choice of a specific counter from our rating may be dictated by the following features:

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 a vertical arrangement, VSG-15-02 110 mm and Betar SHV-15 Bet.X-15 are suitable;
In rooms with a very high level of humidity, Ecomera will be relevant.
In networks with strong pressure, Itelma WFK20.D080 will be useful.
Those who do not want to do verification often 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 consider the type of device, since one type is intended for domestic needs, and another for industrial needs.