Which electricity meter is better to put in an apartment: choose a device

This article will help you decide which electricity meter is best to install in your apartment. Here is a complete classification of existing devices by type of design and energy, number of phases, tariffication of these devices, as well as all the data on their selection and correct installation. The article discusses the most popular models and their current prices.

Which electricity meter is better to put in an apartment: classification of devices

When looking for where to buy an electricity meter, it is important not to forget that the choice and purchase of a device should be carried out taking into account all factors. The device cannot be returned and exchanged if there are reasons that prevent its installation, because the sale is accompanied by the introduction of appropriate marks in the passport. This document contains the serial number as well as a seal affixed by a government attorney.

Replacing the old electricity meter a new device is performed in the following cases:

• non-compliance of the device with the requirements set forth by the energy company;
• breakdown of the device;
• settling in a new living space.

Note! There is only one reason for the return of an electric energy meter - the presence of a factory defect.

Devices for calculating electrical energy are classified according to the following criteria:

1. Construction type (mechanical type or induction and electronic).
2. Number of phases (single and three phase).
3. Type of measured energy (devices for measuring reactive, active energy, as well as universal).
4. Tariff rate (single, double and multi-tariff).

Which electricity meter for an apartment is better: prices, advantages and disadvantages of devices

Nowadays, such a problem as the replacement of electric meters is especially urgent, at whose expense many citizens are worried about installing the device. From a theoretical point of view, metering devices are included in the area of ​​responsibility of the electricity supplier., nbut in fact, the solution to the issue falls on the shoulders of tenants living in an apartment or in a private house, whom the law obliges to have a device for metering consumed electricity, as well as to replace it in a timely manner if it does not meet the requirements or a serious breakdown.

There are more than 400 items of measuring equipment for electricity on the market. When the task consists in order to buy electricity meters for an apartment, the price in this case is of secondary importance.

Advantages and disadvantages of installing an electronic type electricity meter

Electronic designs are complex devices, the main task of which is to convert the incoming signal into a digital data format. The result is reflected by a mechanical dial or screen.

Design advantages:

• the error in the readings is very small;
• the functionality allows you to keep records within several tariffs;
• the percentage of theft of electrical energy is very small.

Note! Electronic designs have additional functionality that allows you to buy an electricity meter with a remote control, increased memory or built-in clock.

Disadvantages of electronic devices:

• high sensitivity to sudden voltage drops in the network;
• high price;
• structures are not particularly reliable in terms of operation;
• repairs are very expensive.

The average price of electricity meters in this category is in the range of 900-3100 rubles. The cost depends on the design features of the device and the availability of additional functions, as well as on the manufacturer. Before deciding to buy electric meters with a remote control, it is worth considering that the cost of devices with remote control is three times more than that of standard devices.

Rates for meters with remote control (remote control):

Device model	price, rub.
Mercury 231 AM 01 380 5 (60)	8500
3F.1T.Mercury-230AM-02 10-100A 380V	8500
3F.1T.Tse6803V (M, Sh) 5-60A 230V 4PR.M6 (M7) P32 DIN	8500
3F.1T.TSE6803V (M, Sh) 10-100A 230V 4PR.M6 (M7) P32 DIN	10000
3F.1T.TRIO U 1A4 DV 5-50A 220 / 380V G07 PL.KOR.LEMZ	10000
3F.1T. MERCURY-230AM-03 5-7.5A 380V 0.5S	12000
TRIO U 1A4 TV LEMZ	15000
Mercury 230 ART 01 WITH REMOTE	25000

Why is it profitable to buy an induction electricity meter: strengths and weaknesses

Electromechanical devices are still found in old buildings of the Soviet era. The new generation devices have been significantly modified, however, they use a similar operating principle. The design looks like a plastic box equipped with a viewing window. Through the glass, you can see the rotational movements of the disc and the accounting data on electricity consumption.

The meter is equipped with 2 coils that create electromagnetic fields due to the transmitted voltage. Thanks to these magnetic fluxes, an aluminum disc is set in motion, which affects the wheels that display the numbers. The rotational speed of the disk in old electricity meters, as well as in new ones, depends on the volume of electricity consumption. This is also reflected in the device indicators.

Note! Obsolete induction devices are gradually being phased out, although they are not without certain advantages.

Advantages of induction devices:

• reliability in terms of operation, low percentage of breakdowns;
• unlimited service life of electricity meters;
• sudden voltage drops in the electrical network do not adversely affect the device;
• affordable price.

This design option also has disadvantages:

• significant errors often occur in the readings;
• devices are absolutely not insured against theft of electricity;
• the device carries out an independent transmission of electricity readings (self-propelled accounting without the participation of consumers).

The cost of induction-type electric meters varies between 750-3300 rubles.

Induction metering equipment prices:

Device model	price, rub.
AGAT 1-1 SOE-52 / 50-11SH 39014	1350
Mercury 201.5 63289	865
CE 101 R5 145 M6 88963	1160
CE 101 S6 145 M6 88962	1145
TsE-6803V M7R32 147713	3260

 

Electricity meters: types of structures by the number of phases

On sale there are devices with one or three phases. It is necessary to buy a single-phase type electric meter if the apartment is powered by a single-phase network, consisting of 2 wires, with a voltage level of 220 V. In this case, the maximum permissible network load is 10 kW. This type of accounting equipment is most often used in private houses and city apartments.

Note! It is allowed to connect the device to a three-phase power network, however, this will require 3 devices - a single-phase electricity meter for each phase.

The price of single-phase electricity meters is on average 870-2700 rubles.

If the house is fed by a network with 3 phases and a voltage of 380 V, it would be more expedient to buy a three-phase type electric meter. The need for such powerful equipment is due to the high energy consumption.

Most often, these networks are powered by:

• apartment buildings;
• small industries and factories;
• workshops;
• panel board general purpose.

The average price of three-phase electricity meters is in the range of 2800-3300 rubles.

This type of equipment is also used in the private sector if devices with high energy consumption are used:

• three-phase electric motors;
• electric boilers for heating;
• welding machines and other specialized tools.

Price of three-phase electricity meters:

Device model	price, rub.
Mercury 230 AM-02 53469	2847
TsE-6803V M7R32 147713	3258
Mercury 231 AM-01 82412	3079
TsE 6803V M7P31 133281	3089
Mercury 230 AM-01 35789	2847
Mercury 230 AM-03 47189	2847

 

What are the best to put in the apartment electric meters according to the accuracy class

The operation of any accounting equipment is accompanied by some errors in terms of indications. The differences in its performance depend on which class the counter belongs to. A deviation of only a few percent from the actual consumption is allowed.

Household appliances for apartments have an average deviation of 2%. In practice, this manifests itself as follows: if the consumer has spent 100 kW of electricity, then the data displayed by the meter will be in the range of 98-102 kW.

Note! The lower the accuracy value (class) in the technical data sheet of the device, the less errors occur when metering electricity. Such meters are much more expensive than others.

If you determine which electricity meters are better, starting from the error indicator, you should give preference to the 2nd class of devices. There are several types of devices on sale with different percentages of error:

• 0,2-05%;
• 2,5%;
• 1-2%.

Features of the choice of instruments by accuracy class

Electricity consumer	Instrument accuracy class	Mains voltage class
Electricity producers	0.5 and higher (units equipped with the hourly metering function and the ability to store information for 3 months.)	No limits
Multi-apartment residential buildings	1.0 and up	No limits
Consumers with a power level over 670 kW	0.5 and higher (units equipped with the hourly metering function and the ability to store information for 3 months.)	No limits
Individuals	2.0 and up	No limits
Consumers with power level less than 670 kW	1.0 and up	Up to 35 kW
	0.5 and higher	More than 110 kW

Single-rate and multi-rate electricity meters: price and features

With the advent of electronic devices on the market, the system for recording data on consumed energy has changed significantly. Having completed the installation of the electric meter in the apartment, now you can carry out accounting within several tariffs. Modern devices are capable of supporting 2-3 tariffs, and some models even more.

How much do electricity meters cost: prices of four-tariff devices:

Device model	price, rub.
Energomera CE 102M R5 145 J 253295	2320
EKF Skat 105E / 1-5 (60) TOI4 10501	2775

 

The operation of a multi-tariff meter is based on the breakdown of accounting by time. For example, the calculation of energy consumption according to the daily rate starts at 7:00 and stops at 23:00. The countdown of the night tariffication regime starts at 23.00 and ends at 7.00.

Helpful advice! The cost of electricity consumed during the day is significantly higher than at night. All energy-intensive costs such as washing can be scheduled at night to save money.

The price of day / night electricity meters is much higher than conventional single tariff meters. But not all apartments have a significant difference between the cost of electricity during the day and at night, so the cost of purchasing multi-tariff equipment may not pay off. Before buying, it is worthwhile to calculate costs with a breakdown by day / night and compare them with the results at a single rate.

If the savings reach 35-50%, you can safely replace the electric meter in the apartment with a multi-tariff one, but if the difference is only 100-200 rubles, then such an acquisition will be inappropriate.

How much do electricity meters for an apartment cost: prices of single-tariff devices:

Device model	price, rub.
AGAT 1-1 SOE-52 / 50-11SH 39014	1350
Mercury 201.5 63289	865
Mercury 230 AM-02 53469	2845
CE 101 R5 145 M6 88963	1155
TsE-6803V M7R32 147713	3260

How to properly replace the electricity meter in an apartment

The devices of the modern generation are more perfect than the old models, because they process a fairly large amount of electrical energy, eliminating the appearance of serious problems:

• drops;
• crashes;
• short circuit and fire.

Requirements of decree 442 on the replacement of electricity meters

According to the updated Resolution No. 442, the rules for controlling the retail electricity market have been changed. The document prescribes that the transmission of readings from electricity meters used by citizens of the Russian Federation should be carried out using exclusively electrical devices, and the minimum permissible accuracy class of devices is 2.0.

Note! If the accuracy class of the device is less than the permissible value, you should replacement of the electricity meter... Such a device can be used during its declared service life or until it is seriously damaged.

After the decree # 442 was issued, the service life of the electric meters corresponds to the duration of the check interval - 6 years. This means that a non-conforming device can be used until the first inspection by the authorities, then it must be replaced. Today, the production of devices with an accuracy class below 2.0 stops. Also, no repairs are allowed.

On the one hand, the procedure for changing metering equipment is designed to increase the safety of electricity operation, on the other hand, the question arises at whose expense the electricity meters are replaced. Subject to Article 221, replacement payment is made by the owner of the dwelling.

There are circumstances in which payment is made by the municipal service.This applies to those contracts obtained during the installation of electricity meters in an apartment where there is a corresponding mark, otherwise the owner independently covers all costs.

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Terms of operation of the electric meter in the apartment

The operational life of any device is prescribed in the technical passport. During this period, provided that the settings are correct and there are no violations of operating rules, the device keeps track of the consumed energy as accurately as possible. Therefore, all data obtained during this period can be considered reliable.

To check the service life of the device, just look at the technical data sheet. There is a note showing the time of the first check of the meter carried out on the territory of the manufacturing plant. Most often, the equipment is considered to be good for 25-30 years, after which it is necessary to replace the device.

The timing of replacing electricity meters in apartments is set after a scheduled check of the device:

1. If there is a meter in the apartment with an accuracy class of 2.0 or 1.0, then the scheduled calibration of the electricity meters is performed every 16 years. In the process of control, errors and any violations can be detected. Then the metrological service will recommend to replace the equipment. The average service life of such devices is 32 years.
2. If there is a device with an accuracy class of 2.5, the home owner is obliged to replace the accounting equipment after the expiration of its service life according to the technical passport. Detection of errors in the operation of the device can also serve as a signal for replacement.

Note! A law passed in 2012 dictates that all Class 2.5 metering devices should be replaced with devices marked 2.0 or 1.0.

How much does it cost to replace electricity meters in apartments

All procedures for the installation of accounting equipment must be carried out by highly professional specialists. Working with electricity is extremely difficult and dangerous. The electrician must have the right to unseal and seal the meter. It is not prohibited to use the services of private companies, however, you should find out in advance if the master has the appropriate permission. Otherwise, such actions may be illegal.

The cost of single-phase multi-tariff electricity meters Mercury is 1280-1400 rubles. The price of similar single-tariff devices is in the range of 670-700 rubles. Added to this is the cost of service for dismantling the old device, installing new equipment and connecting it.

Installation of electricity meters in an apartment: service prices:

Name of service	price, rub.
Installation of single-phase, single-rate equipment	1500-2000
Installation of single-phase multi-tariff equipment	1500-2000
Dismantling the device	500
Installation of three-phase equipment with direct connection	2500-3000
Installation / replacement of equipment on a support / pole	5000-7000
Dismantling the device on a support / post	35000

How to change electricity meters in an apartment: features of the procedure

Replacement of accounting equipment, as well as its maintenance, is one of the responsibilities of the owner of the premises where the meter is located:

1. If the device is installed in a common corridor or in a common area, it acts as a public property. In this case, the shelf life of the electricity meter, as well as its timely replacement, is controlled by the Homeowners Association, the Management Company or the owner of the building, if it is the property of an organization or a municipality.
2. If the device is installed inside the premises of a store or apartment, all responsibility for its condition and replacement rests with the owner.

Note! If the agreement with the tenant of the apartment indicates that the responsibility for installing the metering equipment is assigned to the energy supply company, then the latter performs the procedure for a separate fee or allocates the amount from the funds already deposited (depending on the contract).

How to replace electricity meters in an apartment: a list of documentation

For residents of apartment buildings, a certain procedure for replacing electricity meters is provided:

1. Application submission.
2. Providing the required package of documents.
3. Drawing up an act.
4. Electricity meter verification procedure.
5. Sealing the device and issuing an act confirming this.

All documents are drawn up in accordance with the norms prescribed for them by law.

Information that is displayed in the application:

1. Document's name.
2. Date of compilation and place.
3. Applicant's name and details (telephone, email and postal addresses).
4. Location address of the facility where the equipment will be replaced.
5. Requirements for a new device.
6. Details assigned to the power supply contract.

To submit an application, you will need a standard package of documents provided for by the procedure:

1. The identity document of the owner of the property where the meter is installed and needs to be replaced.
2. Power of attorney, if the application is submitted by a representative of the property owner.
3. Citizen's passport with marks confirming registration.

Note! After considering the listed documents, the authorized bodies decide whether to replace the equipment. As a result, an act of replacement is signed between the contractor and the applicant.

Data recorded in the act:

1. Place of installation of a new metering device.
2. The address where the apartment building is located.
3. Technical data of the devices to be replaced (production date, device type, device number, required submit readings of electricity meters at the time of drawing up the act).
4. Technical data of new devices.
5. The date the new hardware was installed.
6. Legal entity name the person replacing the equipment.

The specialist fills in all the fields of the document in duplicate, one of which is given to the applicant.

Electricity meters Mercury: rates and reviews

The most popular manufacturer of metering equipment for electricity on the market is Incotex. Electricity meters Mercury 201 are the most popular and optimal single-phase devices. This category of devices is aimed at metering active energy.

The price of single-phase electricity meters Mercury 201 (single-tariff devices):

Device model	price, rub.
Mercury 201.5 63289	863
Mercury 201.6 83665	1577
Mercury 201.6 83665	1180
The price of single-phase electricity meters Mercury 200 (two-tariff devices)
Mercury 200.02 (R)	1394
Mercury 200.04 (M)	3089
Mercury 200.05	1771

Note! The prices for electric meters Mercury 201 and 200 indicated in the table may differ from the real data. The exact cost depends on the company that sells the accounting equipment.

Below are the reviews left by the buyers of the Mercury 201 electric meters reviews from the forums:

“I have a meter in the entrance. The device worked properly, did not cause problems until receipts with large amounts began to arrive. It turns out that the device needed to be replaced long ago.As I was told, the readings of obsolete equipment are calculated according to the standards for electricity consumption per person without a meter. Most of the neighbors had devices of the Incotex form, and I decided to stop at the Mercury counter. Upon closer examination, it turned out that the body is made entirely of plastic. This means that the device is completely safe. Numerical data on the dial is clearly visible. In general, I am pleased with my purchase, although the old counter was fine with me. "

Victoria Bendas, Moscow

“When it came time to change the meter, on the advice of experts I bought a single-phase - Mercury 201. The device is safe and reliable. For six months of operation, I have not identified any shortcomings. "

Evgeny Doroshenko, Yekaterinburg

Features of connecting a single-phase electricity meter

For most models of devices, the connection diagram for single-phase electricity meters is directly the same. Single-phase equipment is equipped with 4 terminals, which is typical for devices in this category. Electric cables are connected to them.

Installation rules for single-phase electricity meters:

1. Terminal # 1 is the input to which the phase wire is connected.
2. Terminal No. 2 - output for connecting el. wires leading to the apartment.
3. Terminal # 3 is an input for a neutral wire.
4. Terminal No. 4 is the output to which the neutral wire is connected.

If you study in detail the diagram explaining how to connect single-phase electricity meters, even the owner of the apartment can handle this procedure. Most often, device manufacturers place instructions on the inside of the box.

Note! When connecting by yourself, be sure to contact the energy company to remove the seal and install it on the new device. Unsealed devices are not allowed for operation, therefore, the installation of the seal should be carried out as soon as possible after the meter is checked and connected.

To securely fix the email. wires at the terminals of the device, it is recommended to use a screw fastening method. The terminals, which serve as outputs, carry current to the valves and protective elements. A general-purpose terminal for neutral conductor supplies "phase" to RCD (protective elements) and fuses. For this reason, it will be more rational to install all the devices used in one panel.

Special protective shields increase the reliability of fixing the device and additional devices. The optimum mounting level for the cover is 170 cm from the floor. To make the meter convenient to use, this indicator is calculated based on the growth of the apartment owner.

Recommendations for the installation of accounting equipment

To install electricity meters without problems, experts recommend using the appropriate tool:

• forceps;
• pliers;
• pliers for removing the insulating protective coating from wires.

Before carrying out work, you need to make sure that the lead-in wire is available. It must be turned off for the period when all work will be performed, so this operation should be safe and painless.

It is imperative to adhere to all safety rules, insulate all wire cross-sections with high quality and be extremely careful about performing each action. You also need to take care of obtaining the appropriate permission from the control authorities and have the necessary documents available.