Types of water meters: an overview of the different types + recommendations for buyers

Manufacturing companies - reliability rating

The choice of the manufacturer is the key. The duration of operation of the device depends on which water meter of which company you buy.

The devices of foreign manufacturers are in the greatest demand:

• Elster Metronica - manufactured under license in many CIS countries;
• Sensus - Germany;
• Zenner - Germany, Russia under license;
• Viterra - Canada;
• Actaris - France;
• Valtec - Italy;
• Metron - Poland.

When purchasing an imported device, it is necessary to remember not only its compatibility with domestic communication networks for transmitting information, but also the sensitivity of internal mechanisms to water quality. In addition, if a breakdown occurs, the repair of the device can be significantly delayed due to the lack of components. Before purchasing an imported counter, you need to ask the seller if there are certified warranty repair centers and where they are located.

From domestic manufacturers it is worth highlighting:

• Staroruspribor;
• gaselectronics;
• Teplopriborkomplekt;

Devices of domestic manufacturers have much less functionality than imported ones. How much does a domestic water meter cost? On average, the price of equipment comparable in functionality manufactured in Russia is 1.5-2 times less. However, the cost of some Chinese devices with the declared wide capabilities can be much lower, which gives reason to think about their quality.

Instrument design

The design of the vane water meter differs little from the first water meter, invented in 1851. The simplest tachometric meter consists of:

• corps;
• impellers;
• reducer;
• counting mechanism (indicator).

The body of the device is divided into two parts. An impeller is located in the base, equipped with two pipes for connecting to the water supply.

The second part of the case is hermetically isolated from the base by a sealing ring made of non-magnetic material. In addition to the information windows, the front panel has a small (accurate) dial and an asterisk, by the intensity of rotation of which, one can judge the performance of the device and the power of the water flow.

The numbers on the black drums inform about whole cubic meters. The red sector shows the shares.

To increase the service life and prevent corrosion, the body and main elements of the meter are made of brass. The part of the housing not in contact with H2O can be made of plastic.

Classification of water meters

The modern market of meter models is characterized by a huge number of different types and characteristics. Therefore, for the right choice, we need to find out the differences between water meters. So, according to the features of the action, water metering devices are:

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• Tachometric;
• Vortex;
• electromagnetic;
• Ultrasonic.

Now let's consider in more detail the principle of operation and design features of each type.

Features of the tachometric counter

This type of water meter is based on the work of counting the rotations of the impeller, which gives indications for counting. Today it is considered one of the most popular water metering devices. This counter has a number of pluses and minuses in productivity. To improve the selection, we need to get to know them. So, this type is characterized by such advantages:

• The compact size of the device;
• Ease of installation work;
• Budget price;
• Slight reading error.

Tachometric water meters have a branch of subtypes, which are divided according to various criteria. So, by the number of connected streams, there are such varieties:

• Single-jet metering devices for cold and hot water. The principle of the mechanism is to pass one stream through the impeller, while creating an impulse of movement.Their number is fixed by a counter. Based on a large number of photo circuits, you can stand out plus in the possibility of connecting an impulse sensor, which allows remote control.
• Multi-jet types. The main feature of the mechanism is the number of threads that create the movement of the blades. This feature increases the accuracy of the displayed flow data and affects the life cycle of the cold or hot water meter.

There is a division of tachometric water meters and for such a criterion as the diameter of the pipes. For this indicator, they are as follows:

• Impeller devices. They are characterized by a pipeline diameter of up to 20 cm.
• Turbine mechanisms - no more than 4 cm.

Features of electromagnetic devices

The principle of operation of this type of device is based on the interaction of water flow and a magnet. Its field is capable of calculating the flow rate. There is a very high demand for these meters, as they give a high level of accuracy in flow readings. The method of calculating data depends on the speed and volume, and not on the work of individual rotational parts.

To all of the above, you can add the following advantages of a water flow meter:

• The highest level of accuracy of water consumption readings;
• Extensive coverage of calculations;
• Lack of water resistance and moving structural elements;
• Long service life;
• Speed ​​of calculation;
• The presence of an archive;
• Not the ability of a dirty stream to affect the accuracy of the readings.

But, with all its advantages, there are also such disadvantages in its functioning:

• The formed precipitate may collect on the inner surface of the sensor;
• Due to the electronic mechanism, failures in the system can occur faster than other counters;
• A clean environment can reduce device performance;
• Dependence on electricity;
• The complexity of the installation work;
• High level of sensitivity from turbulence;
• Ability to clog with metal debris.

Features of ultrasonic water meter

The main mechanism of operation is to calculate the difference in the passage of sound in terms of time. Thus, the received data is sent to the calculator, which determines the flow of cold and hot water. It should be noted that the received information is archived. Having studied various photo schemes, one can distinguish the standard components of these types of devices. These are the details:

• Flow measurement segment;
• Calculator;
• Pulse transmitter.

These types of counters with an ultrasonic mechanism of operation have a number of such advantages:

• High accuracy of cold and hot water consumption data;
• Ability to measure for a wide volume of flow;
• Lack of moving elements;
• Instantaneous expense calculation;
• The functioning of the archival system;
• Long service life.
• Ultrasonic meters have the following advantages:

In the production of these meters, only two minuses can be distinguished, namely:

• Functioning exclusively with autonomous power supply;
• When exposed to air bubbles, flow rates may be inaccurate.

Which water meter is better to choose?

Water meters allow you to accurately record the consumed cubic meters of water. Thus, payment for water will be carried out not according to average standards, but according to real consumption.It remains only to determine which one is still better to install a water meter, and then choose a company that provides installation services for the water metering system.

If you want to install a really high-quality counter, it is important to understand how they work. It is necessary to understand the basic schemes of the operation of counters

They are:

• mechanical;
• electromagnetic;
• impulse;
• turbine.

Mechanical water meters are characterized by extremely low error, as well as small dimensions. Such devices can be divided into vane and turbine ones, they differ in the position of the blade of the rotating mechanism in relation to the water flow. Mechanical type water meters can also be divided into single-jet and multi-jet, the latter are considered more accurate.

Electromagnetic meters are used in light and heavy industries, they are excellent for measuring any volume of electrically conductive liquid. They are distinguished by a wide measurement range and the absence of moving parts, and therefore are reliable and, with timely maintenance, can carry out trouble-free operation for many years.

Pulse meters are often called dry-running meters, since their moving mechanism does not come into contact with water. The competitive advantage of this solution is the ability to transmit information to the management company remotely using impulses.

It is better to install such water meters in rental houses and apartments where there is no permanent access to the bathroom to take readings on the spent cubic meters of water.

We are least of all interested in turbine water metering systems, since they are used for pipelines of really large diameters.

Want to install a water meter? Be sure to take into account the diameter of the water meter and the method of its possible installation, throughput, as well as the diameter of the pipe. Vane meters are installed strictly in the cut of the pipeline, the work must be carried out by really qualified plumbers, since welding is required

Vane meters are installed strictly in the pipeline section, the work must be carried out by really qualified plumbers, since welding is required.

Multi-jet products are installed in apartments and offices, as the installation is carried out using fittings that are already supplied with the water meter. Do not require the use of a welding machine and valve meters, which are installed in place of the stopcock.

What water meters are better to install for an ordinary residential apartment? In the plumbing fixtures market, you can find a large number of manufacturers, including those from China. Do not choose Chinese water meters - their mechanics are too fragile, products will hardly last more than 2-3 years.

The difference between such devices lies mainly in the materials of bearings and impellers. If you are in doubt about which water meter to purchase, then you need to contact the experts.

Is it possible to install the counter yourself?

In legislative acts and regulations there is no direct prohibition on self-installation of a water meter

So, if you are absolutely confident in your skills and abilities, go ahead! It is important to consider the following points:

• the water meter must be purchased from an organization with the appropriate license, it must be accompanied by a passport with technical characteristics that comply with metrological standards;
• during installation, the water must be shut off throughout the riser, and this is unlikely to be done without the help of the housing office staff;
• if, after self-assembly, a pipe break occurs, then the elimination of the problem and the consequences of the accident will lie solely on your conscience and on your wallet.

If you still think that it is better to mount the meter yourself, then Decree No. 630 of the Cabinet of Ministers strongly recommends resorting to the help of specialists in this matter. The rules approved by this resolution state that the installation of water meters in apartments should be carried out by special companies or suppliers at the expense of the owner of the premises.

What else to consider when choosing?

When deciding to install a meter, you want to be sure that you will stay with the maximum benefit for yourself

This is possible if the water meter accurately counts the entire volume of water consumed and will work for a long time without breakdowns, therefore, when choosing a water meter, pay attention to the following parameters:

allowable water flow is the maximum volume of water per unit of time that the meter can pass through itself, while ensuring sufficient metering accuracy. For pipes with a diameter of 15 mm, meters are produced with a nominal flow rate of 1.5 m3 /hour and maximum flow 3 m3/hour, which is more than enough;

sensitivity limit - the flow rate at which the impeller or turbine begins to rotate. The standard is considered a parameter of 15 l / h, but you can find meters with a sensitivity of 1 l / h;

measurement accuracy is marked with letters from A to D. Meters with accuracy B are suitable for domestic conditions, but there are also more accurate devices of class C;

installation length - this is the distance from one meter thread to another, this parameter determines the possibility of installing the device in the right place

Most devices have an installation length of 110 mm, but there are models with a length of 130, 190 and even 260 mm;
it is also important to consider what pipe diameter the meter is designed for. In apartments, pipes with a diameter of 15-20 mm are usually used, in private houses - 25-32 mm

pressure loss

If suddenly there is a leak in the meter, then the water pressure in the water supply system will decrease. Most water meters will reduce the pressure by 0.6 bar. If this figure is higher, then we recommend that you refuse to purchase;

the name of the manufacturer is also important in the matter of choosing a counter. Devices from Zenner, Actaris, Sensus, Sensus, Elster Metronica, Valtec and Viterra have proven themselves well. Domestic-made meters Meter, Pulse, Betar, Economy, Staroruspribor, TPK will cost less;

frame. Counters in brass and bronze cases, as well as those made of stainless steel, have proven themselves best. Devices in a polymer case behave well, but it is better to refuse to buy a water meter in a silumin case - it quickly corrodes;
the counter must have badges confirming the presence of state registration. Also on the dial you can find the serial number of the device and the operating conditions for which it is designed (water temperature, pressure, nominal water flow, accuracy class, pipe diameter);
the check valve will become an additional protection of the system against water hammer, so if there are problems with pressure surges in the local water supply, then this option will be useful.

It is also not superfluous to clarify with the organization that supplies water whether all meters can be installed in apartments. Perhaps they will recommend models that have proven themselves best in these conditions and advise which counters are best not to take. It is necessary to buy a meter at a water supply organization or at a service trade organization - a purchase on a spontaneous market is fraught with problems with the water utility.

Do not forget that periodically the counter needs to be verified or replaced with a verified sample. These are additional costs, but they will never be equal to the amounts that you would overpay for unused water “according to the norms”.

Water meter: how to choose the right device?

It would be a mistake to assume that there is only one type of water meter. In fact, you can find many variations of such metering devices, differing in the principle of operation, cost and other indicators.

Installing a water meter will pay off quickly enough and will help to significantly save on utility bills.

Before buying a device, it is important to understand their diversity. First of all, you need to understand that meters are available for hot and cold water.

The principle of operation of the devices is similar, the difference is in the materials used for their production.

Devices working with hot liquid can withstand temperatures up to 150C, while devices for cold water can operate at temperatures not exceeding 40C.

So-called universal meters are produced, which can be placed on any pipe. A special case marking helps to distinguish between devices, blue for cold and red for hot water.

In addition, a distinction is made between volatile and non-volatile devices. For the operation of the first, electricity is needed, so they are connected to the network. The second ones work without additional power sources.

It is important to classify devices according to the principle of their operation. On this basis, all metering devices can be divided into four large groups:

Vortex counters

The frequency of the vortices occurring on the body placed in the water flow is recorded. Fluid flowing around an obstacle causes pressure changes on its surface.

The frequency of such pressure drops directly depends on the flow rate and on the water flow. Vortex counters capture these readings and convert them into an analog or digital signal. The advantage of such metering devices can be considered low contamination in water of any quality, ease of verification and high measurement accuracy.

The disadvantages include a short service life, which is about 8-12 years, and rapid wear of the bluff body if abrasive particles are present in the water.

Vortex meters for water are highly accurate, but their service life is relatively short: only 8-12 years, after which the equipment fails

Ultrasonic devices

Use the difference in time intervals that occur during the passage of ultrasound along and against the measured flow. Not only pure water, but also wastewater, as well as dirty liquids with the presence of abrasive substances can act as a medium to be measured.

The main advantages of the devices are the ability to conduct accurate measurements in any medium in terms of physical and chemical properties, ease of verification, long service life, which is about 25 years, ultra-precise operation even without filters, autonomous power supply.

The disadvantages include the probability of stopping the operation of the device when a critical amount of precipitation falls.

Tachometric device

A simple mechanical device, which is a counting device, which is associated with a specially shaped impeller or impeller placed in a stream of water. The water flow rotates the impeller, the number of revolutions of which determines the meter reading.

The advantages of such a meter include low cost, ease of maintenance, the ability to install in any room and energy independence.

A significant "minus" of the device is the need to install a coarse filter in front of the device, a low measurement range, a short service life and measurement errors.

Ultrasonic water meters are volatile devices of high complexity. They are almost never used for installation in houses and apartments.

Electromagnetic counter

The devices keep records of the electromagnetic field induced in the computing unit of the device in proportion to the water flow rate.

The advantage of electromagnetic meters is the absence of protruding elements and mechanical parts that prevent water flow, high measurement accuracy and long service life. In addition, the device is universal and can be installed on hot or cold water.

The disadvantages of an electromagnetic meter include volatility, since the device cannot function without an external power source, increased requirements for the room and the quality of installation.

Another "minus" is the possibility of contamination of the flow path with impurities present in the water.

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.

Features of the selection, installation and operation of a water meter

How to choose the most suitable counter from the variety of offers available on the market? German-made flow meters are especially popular. However, the distinction between domestic and imported devices is sometimes very conditional. Most domestic products are assembled from imported components and under license from foreign manufacturers.

The main technical characteristics that should be taken into account are the water pressure in the system, the maximum operating temperature and the digit capacity of the indicator. It is also necessary to take into account the decrease in water pressure, restrictions on accounting and operation. Attempts to save money and purchase a cheaper device from hands or through friends often only lead to the purchase of a substandard or non-certified device and, as a result, to additional costs. If you still decide to purchase a water meter from a private trader, then make sure that it was not unpacked , the presence of a passport, a guarantee mark and check the number on the device with what is indicated in the technical passport

But even so, you are at risk, since water meters are sensitive even to small mechanical stress, so you should find out if the manufacturer has a representative office in your region, or whether it has contracts with local service and repair centers.Only in this case you can count on warranty and post-warranty service and repair

Attempts to save money and purchase a cheaper device from hands or through friends often only lead to the purchase of a substandard or non-certified device and, as a result, to additional costs. If you still decide to purchase a water meter from a private trader, then make sure that it was not unpacked , the presence of a passport, a guarantee mark and check the number on the device with what is indicated in the technical passport. But even so, you are at risk, since water meters are sensitive even to small mechanical stress, so you should find out if the manufacturer has a representative office in your region, or whether it has contracts with local service and repair centers. Only in this case you can count on warranty and post-warranty maintenance and repair.

It has its own characteristics and choosing a contractor to install the flow meter. First of all, check the availability of a license or other documents confirming the right to perform this type of work. The contract must stipulate the responsibility of the contractor for all work performed by him. Warranty maintenance and repairs must be carried out at the expense of the contractor. It is necessary to find out the possibility of checking or replacing the old water meter with a new one. If during the first control verification it turns out that the installed flow meter is faulty, then a conscientious contractor will always issue a defective report. On the basis of a defective act, it is possible to replace a faulty meter.In the contract for the performance of work on the installation of a water meter, the contractor must indicate its details, including data on the license and other permits. And after the installation is completed and the operability of the water meter is checked, issue an act on the performance of work. These documents are the basis for the registration of a water meter and service.