Water meter: which device is recommended for installation in an apartment

In the modern world, the installation of water measuring equipment is not uncommon. Many families use meters to reduce the financial costs of utility bills. To choose a water meter, you need to understand the principle of operation of such a device, and you should also study the main types of water meters and their parameters.

Most families use meters to reduce their financial costs for utility bills.

Water meter: is there any point in installing a water meter

Utilities set tariffs in such a way that the likelihood of losing their own benefits is minimized. There are many situations when a user overpays for a service that is not of the best quality. In this case, the installation of special measuring equipment will help solve the problem. There are different types of water meters, so certain difficulties may arise when choosing such a device.

Installation of a water meter allows you to further reduce the cost of water disposal

It is impossible to deduce the exact figure that the installation of this equipment can save. This is due to the fact that the level of savings depends on many factors, such as the location of the apartment, its layout, the number of residents registered and living in fact. However, in most cases, installation of a flow meter helps to save the family budget.

Today, state documentation contains all the necessary information about the norms of water per person (without a meter). These figures, as noted by many consumers of services, are overstated.The installation of a water measuring device allows the user to get rid of unreasonable overpayment.

Note! Installation of water measuring equipment allows you to solve another auxiliary problem - to reduce the cost of water disposal. The prices for this service are often too high.

For owners of private houses, connecting water meters is especially beneficial. This is due to the fact that the rates of water consumption in this case are much higher, since they are added to the costs of watering, as well as the maintenance of the car (if there is a garage on the site).

For residents of private houses, installing a water meter is very beneficial

How to view the readings of water meters? Observation of data can be done in the usual way or remotely. The second option takes into account the use of special sensors, transmitting data on liquid consumption on computer. There are special programs to simplify the calculation of the cost of the service, which is very convenient.

Water meter: design features of flow meters

All modern water measuring devices are conditionally subdivided into two blocks, independent from each other. The main part of the flowmeter is the body. For the manufacture of the case, a metal that is resistant to corrosion is most often used. The most common option is bronze. The technical characteristics of this material are ideal for the operating conditions of the meters.

The body of the flow meter has an external thread, which is necessary for inserting the device into the communication. The thread is located on two nozzles, which are fixed to the pipes using special connecting elements. The materials used to make the meter must be of good quality and comply with government regulations. The water meter includes an impeller which is part of the housing.

The second block of the flow meter (upper) is represented by a counting drum. From the name it becomes clear that this element is necessary to calculate the exact flow rate of the fluid in the system. The block has a dial with an arrow. When the arrow overcomes one circle, the number 1 appears on the drum, which corresponds to the number of liters of water consumed.

All modern water meters consist of two blocks: a body and a counting drum

Both units have one thing in common: they are completely sealed. Payment for water on the meter is made in accordance with the amount of media consumed. The drum displays all the necessary information, which can be easily removed.

Helpful information! Each water measuring device is subject to a mandatory check for accuracy. For this, a special pouring stand is used. 200 liters of water is pumped through each meter, after which the accuracy of the data recorded by the device is checked. If during the check the device was found not to be accurate enough, then it is sent for reconfiguration.

The principle of operation of a water meter: how is data recording

It should be noted right away that not every device is suitable for home use. Some water meters are manufactured exclusively for installation in manufacturing plants. The operational accessory of a water measuring product is one of its most important characteristics.

Which water meters are better for indoor use? For home use, simple devices are most often purchased. Tachometric flowmeters are the most acceptable option. They are distinguished by their democratic cost, ease of execution and are resistant to the conditions prevailing in domestic water supply systems.

The principle of operation of water meters is quite simple, the data is read using a rotating impeller

The principle of operation of tachometric devices is quite simple.Data reading takes place using a rotating impeller or turbine. Both of these elements set in motion the natural flow of the carrier in the system. The reader itself can be mechanical or electronically powered.

Each complete revolution of the shaft connected to the impeller corresponds to a certain volume of water. This is how most devices installed on the cold water supply network, as well as hot water meters, work. The price for water consumption can be reduced when using a multi-tariff device.

Tachometric models are characterized by a small error when taking into account data. It should be said that today you can buy combined models of flow meters. They are more complex and contain special valves. They are used to switch media streams.

In addition to tachometric, ultrasonic models are considered quite common. Their principle of operation is based on the measurement of ultrasonic waves passing through the carrier stream. Comparison of the data obtained by this method allows you to determine the volume of water consumed per month by the user.

Most often, simple mechanical devices are installed at home.

Types of water meters: mechanical and electromagnetic devices

All water measuring devices are differentiated into mechanical and electromagnetic. Classification in this case is made according to the device of the metering mechanism, as well as based on what energy is used to operate the device.

Mechanical models do not have electronic components and function due to the movement of the carrier in the pipeline. Water in the communication passes through the structural elements of the device, thereby causing them to rotate. The number of turns of the water meter impeller is recorded on a special display.

Water meters of this type have many advantages. The main advantage of these models is their low cost. They are self-contained and reliable and efficient. The service life of such devices can reach 10-12 years.

Mechanical instruments used to record water flow readings can be single-jet or double-jet. In the second case, the water inside the water meter is divided into two streams. This measure improves the accuracy of the readings. Water metering is carried out once a month.

Mechanical water meters can be single-jet and double-jet

As for mechanical models, they have other positive qualities. For example, most devices of this type are highly maintainable. Therefore, when such a device fails, it is not difficult to call a specialist who will repair it.

Helpful information! Mechanical devices have compact dimensions, which greatly simplifies the choice of a place for their installation.

Like any other device, a mechanical water meter has some negative sides. The measurement accuracy of such a device primarily depends on the quality of the carrier in the pipeline. Thus, if there are many foreign inclusions in the water, then the efficiency of the water meter will decrease. It is also worth noting that such products are highly sensitive to electromagnetic fields.

Cold water and hot water meters of electromagnetic type: features

Electromagnetic devices, in contrast to mechanical ones, allow obtaining the most accurate readings of water consumption, that is, when installing this equipment, the level of savings reaches its maximum. Such devices are classified as volatile.

Electromagnetic water meters provide more accurate readings

Electromagnetic water measuring devices also have one more advantage: when conducting verification of such a meter there is no need to completely dismantle it.The housing of mechanical devices is completely dismantled in such a situation. The accuracy of the readings of an electromagnetic product depends on two factors:

• the purity of the media;
• water temperature.

The price of a meter for this type of water is its main disadvantage. Among other things, it is more difficult to purchase such a device, since electromagnetic devices are not always available in some stores. In order to carry out the installation of such a device, you must submit an application to a specialized company that has a license to carry out installation work.

How much does this type of water meter cost? The price of devices belonging to the electromagnetic group is higher than the cost of mechanical analogs. It varies from 1000 to 3000 rubles. These flowmeters are resistant to electromagnetic fields, which is also a plus and affects the increase in data accuracy.

Most often, such water measuring devices are classified as multi-tariff. This allows you to make appropriate adjustments by dividing the payment grid into several items (depending on the water temperature). Photos of water meters of this type help to visually assess their advantages and disadvantages.

Electromagnetic water meters are most often multi-tariff

Electromagnetic water meters are easy to install. They can be installed both horizontally and vertically. When choosing such a device, it is recommended to pay attention to the quality of the case, since there are often low-quality fakes on sale, the operational life of which is much shorter.

Types of meters: ultrasonic and vortex devices

In addition to mechanical and electromagnetic, there are two more types of flow meters on sale. The first of these are ultrasonic. They are also classified as volatile and therefore require electrical energy to operate.

In this case, work and data recording is performed using ultrasound. Moving in the direction of movement of the carrier, as well as against it, ultrasound allows you to obtain the data necessary for comparison. A water meter of this type has one significant disadvantage - high cost.

Note! On the positive side, it is necessary to mention the long operational life of ultrasonic devices (15 years).

In addition to mechanical and electromagnetic meters, there are also ultrasonic devices

In turn, the vortex models determine the amount of water that has passed through them using a special electronic device. The design of such models implies the presence of a special barrier that forms a swirl of water. The rate at which such a track is formed is a key indicator. The electronic device reads this parameter and, based on the received data, determines the media consumption.

Cold water meters, as well as devices used in the hot water supply network, work efficiently only if the water does not have contaminants. The operational life of the vortex devices is approximately 8 years.

Related article:

DIY water meter installation: installation and registration of the device

Types of water meters. Drawing up an installation diagram. Installation of cold and hot water meters. Sealing and commissioning. Verification.

Thus, in conditions that correspond to the operation of domestic pipes, only mechanical models - tachometric ones - work relatively well. Therefore, it is mechanical devices that occupy a leading position in sales.

Meters for hot and cold water: classification by temperature and principle of operation

All water measuring devices are divided into two large groups. The first includes models that are used to record data on the flow of cold water. The second ones are installed on DHW communications.Before purchasing this or that variety, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the permissible temperature conditions for meters.

All meters are divided into two groups - for cold and hot water

Cold water meters can be operated at a maximum temperature of +30 ° C. Exceeding this indicator will lead to malfunctions in the operation of the device. Water measuring devices for DHW networks are allowed to be used if the medium temperature does not exceed +130 ° C.

The price of hot water meters is higher than the cost of their cold counterparts. In addition, such devices have a shorter interval between checks. The high cost of metering devices for hot water supply networks is due to the fact that they are made of more expensive materials that are resistant to high temperatures.

Note! Today it is possible to purchase universal models that can function both in hot water supply networks and in cold communications.

How to distinguish a cold water meter from devices that cut into hot water supply networks? To eliminate possible problems when buying a particular device, they are usually painted in different colors. The housing of the meter designed for cold water communication has a blue color. Water meters for hot water are produced in red. Universal devices also have a unique orange color.

Hot water meters are more expensive than cold water meters

All devices used to record data in water supply networks are differentiated according to one more criterion - according to the principle of operation. Depending on this factor, the following devices are distinguished:

• single-jet;
• multi-jet.

In the first case, the device is designed in such a way that water moves along it in one stream. During the operation of the meter, it hits the impeller, which adversely affects the accuracy of the recorded data. Such models are available for indoor use. Meters for hot water and for cold water supply networks of this type are recommended to be purchased only in reliable places. It is also not worth saving on the purchase of measuring equipment.

Multi-jet models are mounted on pipes with a diameter exceeding 40 mm. They have higher measurement accuracy, but are not used at home.

"Wet" and "dry" meters of cold and hot water: what is the difference

All water meters are classified into "wet" and "dry" devices depending on the place of their connection. The first ones are installed directly into the pipeline structure. During operation, such devices come into contact with water, which adversely affects their condition.

Meters that are installed directly into the pipeline structure are called "wet"

The channels of even the best water meters of this type will quickly become clogged if the necessary protective measures are not taken. The installation of a special filter element allows to solve the problem of rapid wear of "wet" devices. It traps large foreign particles, reducing the negative impact on the meter. It is important to remember that the filter is installed in front of the water meter.

"Dry" models do not come into direct contact with the media in the pipeline, so the service life of such devices is longer. They are protected from the flow of water by a special partition, which is non-magnetic.

Such counters register more accurate readings, which is their undoubted advantage. Models that belong to the "wet" group are much cheaper. The price of a meter for cold water of this type most often does not exceed 1000 rubles. Experts strongly recommend installing coarse filters in front of them in order to extend their service life.

It is worth considering an important characteristic of "wet" and "dry" devices, namely their sensitivity to magnetic fields.Most modern meters are designed to withstand magnetic fields.

"Dry" meters do not come into direct contact with water in the pipeline, therefore they have a longer service life

The use of anti-magnetic water meters increases the accuracy of the data. This is due to the fact that such devices are resistant to electromagnetic fields. In apartments of new buildings, these water meters are installed in advance, which is very convenient.

Helpful information! Anti-magnetic water meters belonging to the first group are not sensitive to external magnetic fields. In turn, dry models cannot boast of the same.

Criteria for choosing a water meter: price and technical characteristics

When choosing a flow meter, it is necessary to study the basic criteria that allow you to purchase a reliable and efficient device. The modern market is overflowing with a variety of flow meter models. Some of them are unsuitable for the conditions of domestic water supply structures.

Most often, the water entering the apartment contains a fairly large amount of harmful impurities. Foreign particles act on the rubbing parts of the meters, which leads to rapid wear of the devices. When choosing a flow meter, it is recommended to pay attention to this point. The best water meters have a design that excludes such an arrangement of parts.

Each device, regardless of the manufacturer, must have a technical passport.

Another important point is the material from which the device body is made. It must be resistant to corrosion, and it is also necessary that it be strong enough to resist mechanical stress (shock). The most suitable option for this are alloys of various metals such as bronze, brass, etc. On sale you can also find products made of stainless steel. However, they are not very common, since this material is more difficult to process.

Chinese companies that produce such products use a silicon-aluminum alloy. Unlike the above materials, meters of this type do not differ in a long service life. However, they do a pretty good job of dealing with contaminated water.

To answer the question of which water meters are better, you must also pay attention to the calibration interval of the device. This indicator determines the time interval between verifications, which are carried out by public service specialists. The longer this interval, the more reliable the device is. As a rule, for cold water meters, it is 6 years. The average interval between checks for DHW flow meters is 4 years.

Note! Each device, regardless of the manufacturer, must be accompanied by a technical data sheet. The purchase of a flow meter without this document is strictly prohibited, since its presence is a necessary requirement for authorizing the installation and commissioning of the meter.

The cost is affected by the equipment of the device, the set must contain all the necessary fittings, squeegees and seals

In addition, the equipment of the device is important. The set with it must contain all the necessary connecting fittings, squeegees, as well as special seals made of rubber.

Which counter to choose: additional capabilities of water measuring devices

In addition to basic characteristics, flowmeters can have many additional functions, depending on what type they are. Some of these options are incredibly useful. Let's consider various modifications of such equipment.

Some models do not require continuous readings. This process can be automated using special overlays. The signal will be transmitted via a radio channel.It should be noted that such specialized devices are not compatible with all types of water measuring devices. Most often they are implemented together with a specific water meter.

Multi-tariff devices are popular among users. Determination of the water tariff by the meter in this case provides maximum savings. The device registers the temperature of the water and distributes the cost depending on this parameter. Thus, the user pays for the actual temperature of the water in the pipes.

In addition to the main characteristics, counters can have additional functions.

The multi-rate water meters are equipped with a compact processor and low memory capacity. Most often, for the operation of such devices, a rechargeable battery is required, the service life of which can be up to 7 years.

Review of popular flow meters: Valtec water meter

This company is one of the most common water measuring devices on the market. Its products are reliable and versatile. Devices from the Italian brand are not differentiated by temperature, therefore they can be mounted both on hot water supply networks and on cold water pipelines.

What are the best water meters? The most popular models produced by this manufacturer are VLF-15U-I and VLF-15U-IL. There is a pulse output in the design of such water meters, so they can be monitored from a distance. The length of such devices is 8 cm. This indicator is calculated without taking into account the union nuts.

In addition, there are other devices from this brand that are in demand among modern buyers. One of them is the VLF-15U, which is slightly longer (11 cm). Another device that is great for home installations is the VLF-15U-L.

The most popular models from Valtec are VLF-15U-I and VLF-15U-IL

Note! The VLF-15U-L series device is sold without union nuts, so they will have to be purchased separately.

The most expensive model of the Valtec water meter is the VLF-20U. The water consumption of such a device is 2.5 cubic meters / h. The cost of such devices varies from 700 to 1600 rubles. Valtek flowmeters are not the most budgetary, but their price is fully consistent with the quality. The cost of hot water meters produced by this company is higher than the cost of cold water meters.

Valtek devices are reliable in operation and have high data recording accuracy. The calibration interval for such water meters is 6 years. And also it is necessary to pay attention to one more advantage of such models, namely: they are all equipped with anti-magnetic protection.

Betar water meter: a reliable device of a domestic manufacturer

Betar water measuring devices are used for hot water and cold water systems. This manufacturer is engaged in the manufacture and sale of models SGV-15 and SKHV-15. The first of them are mounted on pipelines transporting hot water, as well as on cold communications. Thus, they are versatile. The second models are installed exclusively on the cold water supply network.

Betar meters are used for cold and hot water

These meters have many advantages and are excellent for use in domestic conditions. One of the most important advantages of such models is that they can be mounted both horizontally and vertically.

Betar hot water meters (SGV-15) have a longer interval between checks - 6 years. For cold devices, this figure is 4 years. The service life of the models produced by this company can reach 15 years under normal conditions, which is also a plus.

Some models include special electronic transmitters that allow remote water flow readings.Betar water meters are designed for installation in systems with water temperatures ranging from 5 to 90 ° C.

Betar company is engaged in the production of not only universal models with a wide temperature range. If desired, you can purchase a cold water meter with a temperature limit of + 40 ° C. The cost of such a model is lower, so purchasing it will save money. Such equipment has other advantages:

• simplicity of design;
• high-quality body materials;
• uncomplicated installation.

The Betar hot water appliance has a longer calibration interval

Betar DHW and cold water meters are an excellent solution. On specialized forums, such counters have the overwhelming majority of positive reviews.

Water measuring devices Norm: advantages and disadvantages

Finding an answer to the question of which water meter is best to put in an apartment requires a careful study of the market for these devices. The Norma company is one of the most popular manufacturers of water measuring equipment today.

Helpful information! A wide range of counters manufactured by Norma allows expanding the operational scope of these devices. The minimum cost of such devices is 450 rubles. The price of hot water meters for the Norm apartment is slightly higher.

SVK-15 has several design options. Depending on the type of meter, the appropriate symbols are added to the name (X, G, etc.). If desired, the client can choose a universal model that can be used for both hot water supply and cold water supply. The name of such a device indicates the letter U.

The minimum cost of meters for water Norm is 450 rubles

The cheapest are cold water meters. How much do Norma devices cost? The cost of flow meters depends on the nominal diameter. So, the SVK-15 model is the most budgetary, and products with a cross section of 40 mm are sold for 5 thousand rubles. and more.

Universal flow meters Norma can be equipped with a pulse output. The owners note the following positive qualities of such water measuring devices: a durable case, low price, and the presence of anti-magnetic protection.

Norma flow meters are sold complete with union nuts and special rubber seals, so they do not need to be purchased separately. If the meter of this company fails, you can contact the service center, since the warranty for these devices is from 2 to 3 years.

Beregun water meters: accurate and reliable water meters

Beregun flow meters are used in apartment buildings and allow measuring and accounting of consumed liquid. This company is engaged in the production of water measuring devices for domestic hot and cold water supply networks.

Beregun devices are used in systems where the pressure does not exceed 0.1 MPa

Beregun flow meters are used in systems with a certain pressure level. It should not exceed 0.1 MPa. Before purchasing a device of this type, you need to pay attention to which installation class it belongs to. Beregun water measuring devices can be of two types:

• class A - installed vertically;
• class B - horizontal installation.

Which water meter is better to choose? Devices from this manufacturer are classified according to the nominal diameter. The most popular are models with a cross-sectional index of 15 mm.

The type of installation is determined taking into account the individual characteristics of the plumbing structure. Horizontal models have become more widespread. The advantages of such meters are their compactness and low weight. These qualities simplify the selection of the required installation site for the device.

Reliable and durable materials are used to manufacture the body of such flowmeters. The high quality of the components affects the accuracy of the data obtained, which guarantees savings when paying for hot water by the meter, as well as cold water. The cost of the cheapest product from this manufacturer is 550 rubles. The operational life of Beregun water measuring devices can reach 12 years.

Beregun company is engaged in the production of water measuring devices for cold and hot water supply

How much do water meters cost: purchase and installation price

All water measuring devices are classified according to their design, based on which the principle of their operation is determined. Today, anyone can choose a device that is suitable for specific operating conditions.

The most common in the domestic market are mechanical devices of the tachometric type. They are highly suitable for use in adverse conditions in water supply networks. Tachometric flow meters are used to measure volumes of cold and hot water. Their price is the most attractive. It varies from 450 to 1500 rubles.

Note! Installing a meter saves a significant amount of money. Water standards per person without a meter, as a rule, exceed 2 times the real flow rate.

The most expensive models of flow meters are those of the electromagnetic type. Their cost can be 15 thousand rubles. and higher. For home use, the purchase of such a counter is impractical. Most often they are installed in various manufacturing plants.

Mechanical tachometric meters are very popular in the domestic market.

Ultrasonic water meters are also not cheap. In this case, the measurement of liquid flow occurs using ultrasonic waves, which compare the flow of water passing through the device. The price of cold water meters of this type is on average 11 thousand rubles. The cost of models mounted on a hot water supply network can reach 12-15 thousand rubles.

Vortex devices are another type of flow meters. Such devices are used to organize control over various technical processes. For domestic purposes, the use of such devices is not recommended, but possible. The minimum cost of vortex type meters is 5 thousand rubles.

Low-cost tachometers are ideal for home use. Which water meter is best for an apartment is extremely difficult to determine with one hundred percent probability, but such models are suitable in most cases.

How much does it cost to install a water meter? The installation price of such devices depends on many factors. When calculating this figure, the individual characteristics of the pipeline are taken into account. For example, a tie-in into a metal communication is more expensive, since it takes more time and effort. The total cost may differ depending on the region of residence. It varies from 500 to 5000 rubles.

For use in apartments and private houses, tachometers are excellent.

We should also mention the cost of periodic checks. This procedure will be the cheapest if it is carried out by specialists representing the local management organization. Such a check will cost the client approximately 500-1000 rubles. Services of private firms are more expensive and can reach 2-2.5 thousand rubles.

How to seal a water meter: recommendations

After purchasing and installing the water measuring device, it is sealed. If the previous steps could be done by hand, then such work requires professional skills and knowledge.The installation of the seal is carried out by authorized specialists who represent the managing organization performing the service.

It is worth mentioning right away that the utility company may refuse to provide a master to the user. In such a situation, you need to contact private organizations, which will install a seal on the water meter for a certain cost. You will need to pay more for the work of a private specialist. The advantage of this method is the speed of sealing.

Note! A private entity must be licensed to engage in such activities.

The water meter is sealed immediately after its installation

After the sealing has been completed, the user is issued an act certifying the performance of the corresponding operation. The master must indicate all the necessary points in this document and put his signature.

How much does it cost to seal a water meter? The minimum cost of such a service for private companies is 500 rubles. The best option is to install two flow meters in an apartment at once. In this case, the sealing company can provide the client with a small discount.

What is required to seal the water meter? This procedure is performed after inserting the device into the plumbing structure. In some cases, it becomes necessary to re-insert the seal. For example, this may be required after a water supply accident.

How to properly seal a water meter: documentation

To carry out this procedure, you will need to prepare the necessary documents. The user is obliged to provide a technical passport corresponding to a specific device, as well as an installation certificate that was drawn up earlier.

The consumer must provide a technical passport corresponding to the device to be sealed

It is important to remember that domestic legislation contains information that each user is obliged to install the filter. Only in this case can the meter be put into operation.

How to seal a water meter? After preparing all the necessary documentation, you need to submit an application to the managing organization. The application is submitted in writing. The application is required to indicate the following data:

• FULL NAME;
• the exact address of the user;
• passport details;
• telephone (mobile or home);
• flow meter type;
• serial number of the device;
• installation act;
• the planned date of putting the device into operation;
• primary indications;
• verification interval.

The above list is suitable for individuals. Legal entities, among other things, will need to provide data regarding the location of the company, as well as other mandatory information.

Sealing of water meters is made with different types of seals

How to seal water meter correctly? After submitting the application, you must wait a few days. After this period, an employee of the management company must come to the user and inspect the flow meter. Next, the seal is installed. Upon completion of this process, the master is obliged to provide the client with an act of completion of the sealing. A copy of this document remains with the company. Both copies must contain signatures of the master and the client.

Flowmeters used in cold and hot water supply networks differ in design and principle of operation. Experts recommend purchasing equipment only if the company has a license to sell it. When buying a meter, it is worth considering many important points, among which the date of manufacture of the device, the material of the case, the correspondence of the serial number on the device and in the documentation, etc. should be highlighted. It is recommended to entrust the installation and sealing of the flow meter to professionals.