Today, almost every apartment has meters for calculating the consumed volume of water. They allow home owners to significantly save on utilities and monitor their own water consumption. In order to choose a high-quality device, the editorial staff of "I found" prepared a detailed analysis of the features and types of water meters, formulated the main selection criteria and reviewed the description of the most popular models.
Content
The main types of counters
All counters are divided into two main types:
- Mechanical or tachometric meters measure the volume of water flowing through pipes in cubic meters. All of them are equipped with the simplest displays that resemble externally the dial of mechanical watches.
- Electronic and electromagnetic work due to the power supply from the electrical network.
- Ultrasonic.
Varieties of mechanical water meters
By type of reading mechanism
Vane counters are the most commonly used type in apartments and private houses. They are considered the easiest to operate, durable and reliable. The main operating structural element is the impeller. It passes through itself the entire stream of water that comes from the pipes to the water tap. The number of revolutions of the impeller depends on the total volume of liquid: the higher the consumption, the more the number of revolutions. The last parameter is transmitted along the chain: magnetic clutch - reduction gear - indicating device showing a numerical value.
Advantages:
- Reliability and stability;
- Easy to use and install;
- Give accurate readings;
- Relatively low price;
- They can work in high humidity conditions;
- Wear resistant;
- Just get the information you need;
- Almost unaffected by corrosion.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for large diameter pipes (more than 50 mm.);
- Sensitive to external magnetic fields;
- Break down 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 meters... Their main feature and difference is the ability to shut off the water flow using a special valve. The mechanism of work is similar to vane meters.
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.
Disadvantages:
- They break easily in dirty untreated water.
Turbine meters most often they are used in large industrial enterprises where large flows of water need to be recorded. Depending on the type of reading system, 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:
- Able to handle large volumes of water;
- Suitable for large diameter pipes;
- Less susceptible to the negative effects of dirty water.
Disadvantages:
- Expensive;
- It makes no sense to use such devices in apartments and small private houses.
Combined counters combine the functions of vane and turbine. If the water consumption is small, then the impeller works, and if the flow increases sharply in size, the device valve automatically closes and water flows into the turbine apparatus.
Advantages:
- Copes with any volume of fluid consumed;
- Reliable and durable
Disadvantages:
- High price.
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 the 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.
Classification of water meters depending on the type of installation:
- Horizontal;
- Vertical;
- Universal.
Depending on the temperature of the consumed water
- Cold water meters;
- Hot water meters.
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 is necessary to take 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. It is better not to confuse these devices during installation, as this will quickly lead to equipment breakdown.
How to choose the right water meter. Basic principles and criteria
- The quality of any product is confirmed by compliance with certain standards. For water meters, such an indicator is the presence of GOST 50193 and 50601. This is the very first and main criterion for choosing a water meter, which must be taken into account when buying.
- Guarantee period. The longer it is, the more likely it is to have the device repaired for free in case of a breakdown, and the more the manufacturer is confident in the quality of his product.
- Decide on the type of meter. Vane devices can be installed for pipes with a diameter not exceeding 40 mm, and turbine devices are suitable for large pipes. If the device needs to be installed in a regular apartment, a mechanical vane water meter is the best option.
- Understand in which position it is better to install the counter. For horizontal and vertical sections, it is best to select the appropriate units.
- Manufacturer. The best option for buying would be a counter made at a company specializing in the production of such equipment.
- Water flow temperature. This parameter must be taken into account in houses with a central water supply and a small pipe diameter (15-20 mm.). For large pipelines, in most cases, universal devices are used that can withstand high temperatures. Mechanical vane meters are produced separately for hot and cold water.
- Water consumption. One of the main criteria for choosing a mechanical water meter. This indicator is a calculated value and is indicated in the passport or other documents for the device.
- The nominal diameter depends simultaneously on the amount of consumed water and the diameter of the water supply system. For apartment buildings, devices with an indicator of 15 mm are suitable, and for a private house, you should pay attention to meters with a diameter of at least 20 mm.
- The need for remote readings. For these purposes, manufacturers have come up with devices and impulse output.
- Service support from the manufacturer. It is better to find out in advance whether there is a service center of the manufacturer in your city or in nearby settlements.
- The meter size must be taken into account when installing it.
- The duration of the intervals between checks. The most suitable option is counters that do not need to be checked constantly.
- Cost.
A prerequisite for buying a device is a technical passport, which lists all the main characteristics of the meter. It must be carefully examined and checked whether the number on the device corresponds to that indicated in the technical passport.
Before buying, you should consult with Vodokanal specialists. They will tell you what type of meter is best to buy in your case, the features of its operation and installation. After correct and professional installation of the device, it can be registered and registered.
Rating of the best water meters according to buyers' opinion
Betar SGV (SHV) 3/15
One of the most popular models of the device from a domestic manufacturer. It has two types, designed for hot and cold water (SGV - hot water meter, SHV - cold water meter), differing in color. The device is equipped with anti-magnetic protection, which prevents unauthorized change of readings. Average price: about 850 rubles.
Advantages:
- High quality from a reliable manufacturer;
- Easy to use
- The ability to change the position of the dial;
- Simple, nice design;
- Acceptable price;
- Compact, takes up a minimum of space;
- The kit includes everything you need, including rubber gaskets;
- Easy to set up and take readings;
- The warranty period is 2 years;
- A routine check of the device is carried out no more than once every 5 years;
- Withstands temperatures up to 90 degrees Celsius.
Disadvantages:
- Cannot withstand strong water pressure;
- If the device is not used for a long time, there is a risk of malfunction due to exposure to salts.
Main characteristics:
| Counter type | vane |
|---|---|
| Connection type | thread |
| Included | universal counter |
| Number of counters | 1 PC. |
| Accuracy class | B |
| Mounting length | 110 mm |
| Nominal diameter | 15 mm |
| Connection diameter | ¾" |
| Nominal flow | 1.5 m³ / hour |
| Maximum consumption | 3 m³ / hour |
| Minimum consumption | 0.03 m³ / hour |
| Possibility of vertical installation | Yes |
| Check interval | 6 years |
| Maximum working pressure | 10 bar |
| Dust and moisture resistance class | IP54 |
Pulse 15U - 110
A reliable and well-proven product. Suitable for apartments, small private houses and office spaces. The readings are transmitted to a special electronic device. The main operating mechanism comes in motion due to the coolant. Average price:
Advantages:
- High-quality assembly;
- Ease of operation;
- Large temperature range;
- 3 year warranty;
- The ability to install both horizontally and vertically;
- The main operating mechanism is protected from constant contact with water;
- The check is carried out once every six years;
- The set of the device includes all the parts necessary for installation;
- Withstands high enough water pressure;
- Easy to take readings from the dial;
- A light weight.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for use in dirty, untreated water.
Main characteristics:
| Counter type | vane |
|---|---|
| Connection type | thread |
| Included | universal counter |
| Number of counters | 1 PC. |
| Principle of operation | mechanical multi-jet |
| Mechanical counter type | dry |
| Mounting length | 110 mm |
| Nominal diameter | 15 mm |
| Connection diameter | ¾" |
| Nominal flow | 1.5 m³ / hour |
| Maximum consumption | 3 m³ / hour |
| Minimum consumption | 0.03 m³ / hour |
| Possibility of vertical installation | Yes |
| Check interval | 6 years |
| Maximum working pressure | 10 bar |
| Life time | 12 years old |
VSG-15-02 110 mm.
One of the most popular models among buyers, actively used in apartments, houses and small businesses. Pointer and roller gauges ensure correct operation. It is considered one of the most accurate instruments for measuring the volume of consumed water.
Advantages:
- High accuracy;
- Ease of use;
- Can be installed vertically and horizontally;
- Reliable and easy assembly;
- The package includes a special glass to protect against mechanical damage;
- Doesn't take up much space;
- It rarely breaks down and serves for a long time.
Disadvantages:
- It breaks down quickly in dirty water;
- Measurement errors are possible at high humidity;
- Suitable for installation only in heated rooms;
- Quite heavy weight.
Main characteristics:
| Counter type | vane |
|---|---|
| Connection type | thread |
| Included | hot water meter |
| Principle of operation | mechanical single jet |
| Number of counters | 1 PC. |
| Accuracy class | B, A |
| Mounting length | 110 mm |
| Nominal diameter | 15 mm |
| Connection diameter | ¾" |
| Nominal flow | 1.5 m³ / hour |
| Maximum consumption | 3 m³ / hour |
| Minimum consumption | 0.03 m³ / hour |
| Possibility of vertical installation | Yes |
| Check interval | 6 years |
| Maximum working pressure | 16 bar |
Itelma WFW20 D080
One of the highest quality and most durable devices, according to buyers. The meter from the German manufacturer is interesting, first of all, because it can be used not only to take readings of water consumption, but also to transfer them to other points. This process occurs due to the fact that special sensors record pulses at the output. This way of working can be especially relevant for industrial and office premises. Average price: 630-710 rubles.
Advantages:
- Reliable build;
- All structural parts are made of high quality materials;
- Durable, works much longer than the stated period;
- The main operating mechanism is protected from the effects of magnetic fields;
- The package includes special elements that protect the reader from water and high humidity;
- If desired, you can connect pulse sensors.
Disadvantages:
- Potentially large error in the operation of impulse sensors;
- Relatively high cost
Main characteristics:
| Counter type | vane |
|---|---|
| Connection type | thread |
| Included | hot / cold water meter |
| Number of counters | 1 PC. |
| Principle of operation | mechanical single jet |
| Mechanical counter type | dry |
| Mounting length | 110 mm |
| Nominal diameter | 15 mm |
| Connection diameter | ¾" |
| Nominal flow | 1.5 m³ / hour |
| Maximum consumption | 3 m³ / hour |
| Minimum consumption | 0.03 m³ / hour |
| Possibility of vertical installation | Yes |
| Check interval | 6 years |
| Maximum working pressure | 10 bar |
| Accuracy class | IN |
Zenner Etwi-N DN 15
One of the most reliable models from a well-known German brand. The main feature is that the device is suitable for both hot and cold water. Pulse sensors are highly accurate. Average price: 1500 rubles.
Advantages:
- Versatility, measures the volume of flow of both hot and cold water;
- Quality product from a time-tested manufacturer;
- The meter readings are highly accurate;
- Capable of withstanding large volumes of water;
- Pulse sensors have a small measurement error and fail in exceptional cases.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- It is not compact and takes up a lot of space.
Main characteristics:
| Counter type | vane |
|---|---|
| Connection type | thread |
| Included | cold / hot water meter |
| Number of counters | 1 PC. |
| Principle of operation | mechanical single jet |
| Mechanical counter type | dry |
| Mounting length | 110 mm |
| Nominal diameter | 15 mm |
| Connection diameter | ¾" |
| Nominal flow | 1.5 m³ / hour |
| Maximum consumption | 3 m³ / hour |
| Minimum consumption | 0.03 m³ / hour |
| Possibility of vertical installation | Yes |
| Check interval | 6 years |
| Maximum working pressure | 16 bar |
| Accuracy class | B, A |
In the article, we told the readers about the features of choosing meters for hot and cold water and presented a rating of the most high-quality and time-tested mechanical models. If you have experience using any of these devices, please share your opinion about them in the comments.
