Reliability and quality rating: which water meter is best to choose for your apartment?

ECO NOM

The EKO NOM brand belongs to a dynamically developing Russian company, founded in 2013. Its enterprises are located not only in our country, but in the Eastern European and Asian regions. Modern production lines are equipped with German equipment. In addition to the domestic market, products are also supplied to the Central Asian and Transcaucasian republics.

Produced meters. The company specializes in the production of control and measuring instruments for water, gas, heat and shut-off and control valves. The bulk of products are produced with a brass or cast iron body, designed for 12 years of operation with a 5-year warranty. The company carries out a full production cycle from design to mass production. Among our own developments there are devices with remote data transmission. "ECO NOM" is a regular participant in the prestigious exhibition of municipal equipment "Aquatherm" in Moscow.

Pros of ECO NOM

1. Good price/quality ratio.
2. High equipment reliability.
3. Accuracy of readings.
4. Long warranty period.

Cons of ECO NOM

1. Limited production volumes with increased demand.

Comparison of models

To make it more convenient to choose a brand of water meters, we have combined their main characteristics into a summary table.

Betar

Located in Tatarstan, it is the largest domestic manufacturer of water, gas, heat and electricity meters. It was founded in 1996. Its sales offices are located in 85 regions of our country and neighboring countries.

The workshops of the enterprise are equipped with modern equipment. The implemented quality management system complies with the international standard ISO 9001. All products are certified by the Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology. The brand has received more than 50 awards at specialized domestic and international exhibitions.

Produced meters. Today there are more than 40 types of original products from this brand, including its own automated Smart Home system. In 2021, 65 million water meters were produced. All devices are equipped with antimagnetic protection. There are models with remote transmission of readings.

Pros of Betar

1. Reliable design with a large margin of safety.
2. Ease of installation.
3. A universal range of models with a wide range of flow and pressure.

Cons of Betar

1. High price.
2. Aggressive advertising.

Which water meter is better to install?

For installation in apartments and houses, it is recommended to choose one- or two-jet household appliances. At industrial facilities, turbine options are mainly used. To make it easier to read information, they can have a pulse input. Most models are equipped with anti-magnetic protection, which makes it impossible to illegally save on water consumption.

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

• If the device needs to be installed in a hard-to-reach place, then you should pay attention to Betar SGV 3/15 or Pulse 15U-110.
• For vertical placement, VSG-15-02 110 mm and Betar SHV-15 Bet.X-15 are suitable;
• In rooms with very high humidity levels, Ecomera will be relevant.
• In networks with strong pressure, Itelma WFK20.D080 will be useful.
• For those who do not want to do verification often, you can take a closer look at Valtec ¾ and ECO NOM-15-80.

First of all, it is recommended to choose a water meter with the best flow metering accuracy, and only then look at its ease of use and budget. You should also take into account the type of device, since one type is intended for domestic needs, and another for industrial needs.

Valtec

The VALTEC trademark appeared in 2002 as a result of cooperation between Russian and Italian specialists. Initially, production facilities were located in Italy. Later, products of this brand began to be produced in Spain, Germany, Turkey, China and Russia. All products entering the domestic market comply with our standards, therefore they are easily adapted to systems of any complexity.

Produced meters. The company specializes in the production of materials and equipment for water supply, heating and plumbing. Most products have a warranty period of 10-15 years. The uniqueness of our own developments is confirmed by dozens of patents. The company produces universal water meters with protection against magnetic influence. Among them there are models equipped with a check valve, wired and wireless data transmission devices.

Pros of Valtec

1. High build quality.
2. Versatility.
3. Excellent sensitivity.
4. Large selection of models.

Cons

1. Same design.
2. High price.
3. There are cheap counterfeits of products from this brand.

Decast Metronic VSKM 90-15 DG

This is a universal counter with a vane single-jet type of action. The device is manufactured in Russia. Its lowest flow rate is 0.03 cubic meters per hour, nominal - 1.5, and maximum - 3. The sensitivity threshold does not exceed 0.01 cubic meters per hour. The operating temperature is between +5 °C and +90 °C, and the pressure reaches 1.6 MPa.

The installation length is 11 cm. The connection diameter is 1/2 inch. The device is made of bronze and weighs 0.6 kg. The body is made of brass. The VSKM 90-15 DG meter has a convenient indication of the volume of water used. It is easy to install and remains operational for a long time. The interval between verifications is 6 years. However, its package does not include sealing gaskets and adapters - they must be purchased. The product warranty period is 4 years.

Itelma

ITELMA Building Systems LLC began producing household water meters back in 2003, quickly gaining a leading position in the domestic market. Production is organized according to German standards and equipped with modern European equipment. The company implements 8-stage product quality control from the receipt of raw materials to final testing and monitoring of its devices under real operating conditions.

Produced meters. The Itelma brand produces vane meters for cold and hot water with local metering or remote data transmission. There are models with a radio module and protection from external influences of dust and moisture. All products have a durable brass body and effectively prevent attempts to correct readings using a magnetic field.

Pros of Itelma

1. Famous brand.
2. German technologies.
3. Resistant to pressure and temperature surges.
4. The calibration interval for hot and cold water appliances is 6 years.

Cons of Itelma

1. The price is higher than the market average.
2. In recent years, cases of manufacturing defects have appeared.

The best universal water meters

This is the most profitable option, since such a device can be purchased to control the consumption of both cold and hot water. That is why the cost of these flow meters is not low, although their choice on the market is quite wide. In our rating we are talking about the two most accurate models.

Valtec 3/4

The key advantage of this model is its focus on measuring the flow of both cold and hot water. This meter is installed mainly in apartments. It has compact dimensions and is suitable for installation in limited areas. It is characterized by an increased calibration interval of 6 years. The sensitivity threshold is 0.01 and 0.02 cubic meters. m/h for diameters 1/2 and 3/4″ respectively. Installation of Valtec ¾ does not create any particular difficulties, but the basic kit does not include transition fittings.

Advantages

• Warranty period 36 months;
• Correct readings even when the pipes are heated;
• Not only suitable for drinking water;
• High quality connection with pipes;
• Durable materials and reliable assembly;
• Low chance of corrosion.

Flaws

• Not a low price;
• The installation length is not large.

Valtec ¾ deserves to be called the best water meter for an apartment due to its resistance to high loads and due to its good throughput. Therefore, it can be considered as a suitable option for industrial applications.

ECO NOM-15-80

The EKO NOM-15-80 water meter is a household one and is suitable for monitoring the flow of both cold and hot media. Non-magnetic alloys are used to manufacture the device, which makes the structure more durable and can withstand high levels of moisture. At the same time, such operating conditions have virtually no effect on the accuracy of readings.

The product has a rotating mechanism, so it can be mounted in two positions - horizontal and vertical. Its long service life is guaranteed by reinforced bearings and a new, multi-stage media quality control system.

Advantages

• High quality manufacturing;
• Accuracy of measurements;
• Interverification interval – 6 years;
• 5 year warranty;
• Does not leak;
• Corrosion resistance.

Flaws

• A set of mounting parts must be purchased separately;
• Length 80 mm.

The operating temperature of ECO NOM-15-80 is 5-90°C, and the maximum pressure is 1.6 MPa, which only confirms the status of a universal device.

Zenner

The products of the German company Zenner, produced since 1994 by its subsidiary Zenner-Vodopribor LLC, are well known on the Russian market. The company has implemented a European quality management system, ensuring the production of products with impeccable consumer properties. All devices are included in the State Register of Measuring Instruments and have certificates issued by Gosstandart.

Produced meters. Apartment and communal water meters "Zenner" are equipped with a third-generation impeller, a precise counting mechanism and a pulse wire for remote data transmission. There are models adapted to Wi-Fi. They can be installed in horizontal and vertical positions. The front panel rotates 360 degrees for user convenience.

Pros of Zenner

1. Reliable materials.
2. Resistant to pressure changes.
3. High quality build.
4. High accuracy.

Cons of Zenner

1. Overcharge.
2. Interverification interval is 4 years.
3. Focus on remote data transfer, which is not in demand by the mass consumer.

Criterias of choice

Before choosing water meters for an apartment or house, you need to determine the quality of the liquid entering the home. If it has a high content of solid particles, water meters with rubbing parts are definitely not suitable.

The material of the metering device body in contact with the measured medium is also important:

• Bronze and brass are strong and durable materials that are highly reliable. Tolerate the effects of substances suspended in water.
• Alloy stainless steel is difficult to machine. The material is practically not used.
• Aluminum-silicon alloy, or silumin, is often used by Chinese factories. The material withstands the effects of aggressive substances and reduces the cost of the device. Negative quality - fragility, fragility, inability to withstand even average loads.
• Polymer materials are used only for individual parts of cold water meters. Not designed for hot environments.

Before purchasing, it would be a good idea to determine the composition of the kit. It should include:

• sealing elements;
• fitting;
• sweeps;
• nozzles

You only need to buy a certified water meter that is adapted to local operating conditions. According to the law, the calibration interval for cold water appliances is 6 years, hot – 4 years. It is better to install water meters in the apartment that can last at least this period without repair or replacement.

Experienced users, answering the question of which water meter is best to choose, say that universal models mounted in any spatial position are preferable.

It is better to choose a device with a pulse sensor that transmits data remotely. When placed in a potentially hazardous location, the front panel of the water meter must be covered with a protective cover.

Meter

The domestic company METER was founded in St. Petersburg in 2003 and has its branches in Moscow, Yekaterinburg and Novosibirsk. It specializes in the production of a variety of control and measuring equipment. Modern production equipment allows us to respond to market demands in a timely manner. The product range is updated annually. All models of this brand are certified by the State Standard of the Russian Federation and registered in the State Register of Measuring Instruments.

Produced meters. The company produces universal apartment meters in the mid-price range. In the manufacture of product bodies, only durable brass is used. There are devices with visual readings and remote data transmission. Interverification interval is 6 years.

Pros of Meter

1. Versatility.
2. Affordable price.
3. Reliable design.

Cons of Meter

1. Insufficient accuracy when reducing pressure in the system.
2. There are defective copies.

The best hot water meters

Such flow meters are made from special materials that can withstand high temperatures, on average up to 120 degrees. They can be used both in apartments with central hot water supply and in industrial environments. This category presents the 3 best meters in terms of accuracy and ease of use.

Betar SGV 3/15

The water flow measuring device “SGV 3/15” is recommended for use by housing and communal services services, as it is accurate and reliable in readings. However, during prolonged downtime due to exposure to salts, the turbine may stop rotating normally. This option has anti-magnetic protection, so even if you want to, you won’t be able to cut costs in this illegal way. The water meter is easy to maintain and operate, saving the family budget.

Advantages

• Inspection is required every 5 years;
• Sold complete with everything necessary for installation;
• 2 year warranty;
• Wide temperature range of measured water – from 5 to 90°C;
• Clear accounting of natural resource consumption;
• Does not require special working conditions.

Flaws

• The maximum possible water pressure is 1.0 MPa.

The SGV 3/15 device is compact, which allows it to be installed in niches of small rooms, where every meter is valuable.

Pulse 15U-110

There are no problems when taking readings using the Pulse 15U-110, the numbers are clearly visible, and it is very convenient that they are white and red on a dark background. Reviews note the high quality of the build, but just in case, a guarantee is given for as long as 3 years.

It can be used in water supply systems of apartments, offices, houses with data transfer to an electronic device, which simplifies its management. The device can withstand pressure up to 1.6 MPa. The water meter accurately counts the number of revolutions of the impeller rotating under the influence of the coolant in the pipeline.

Advantages

• Shows flow at temperatures from 5 to 90°C;
• Both horizontal and vertical installation are allowed;
• The measuring mechanism does not contact the media;
• Interverification interval – 6 years;
• Certified;
• Availability of connecting elements included;
• The weight is not big - 0.3 kg.

Flaws

• Suitable only for measuring high-quality tap water.

VSG-15-02 110 mm

The VSG-15-02 water meter is recognized as the most popular apartment meter in the Moscow region. It is suitable for both domestic and industrial use, but the media in the systems must be clean. Otherwise, the impeller may be damaged, which could lead to poor measurement accuracy. When used correctly, it shows detailed data on water consumption, down to fractions. The device is triggered by pointer and roller sensors.

Advantages

• Suitable for both vertical and horizontal installation on pipelines;
• Protected from mechanical impact by durable glass;
• Not affected by moisture;
• Easy to install in small areas;
• Simplicity of coupling assembly;
• Long service life.

Flaws

• May fail at humidity levels above 80%;
• It weighs a lot.

Despite the fact that the VSG-15-02 110 mm hot water meter is good and made of high-quality materials, it can still only be installed in heated rooms where the temperature does not drop below +5 degrees.

Decast

appeared back in 1994 under the name “PC Pribor LLC”. From the very beginning, it specialized in the production of control and measuring equipment. The workshops of the enterprise are equipped with modern technological lines. Product quality is controlled by an automatic verification unit. The company's product range includes a variety of water, heat, electricity meters and auxiliary products for them.

Produced meters. Under the Decast brand, household hot and cold water meters of metrological classes A, B, C are manufactured, designed for different consumers and a wide range of requirements for measurement accuracy. Among them there are single-jet and multi-jet models, devices for rooms with high humidity, sensors with an electronic display and remote transmission of information. All products are equipped with a brass body.

Pros of Decast

1. There are models in different price ranges.
2. Good reliability and long service life.

Cons of Decast

1. The interval between verifications is 4 years.
2. Some products have special installation requirements.

VALTEC 1/2

The package includes:

• counter;
• screw;
• union.

The device is used in hot and cold water supply systems at pressures up to 16 bar. Mainly used in apartments. Like most devices of its kind, it is used to determine passable water with temperatures from +5 °C to +90 °C. The device weighs 640 g. Its dimensions are relatively small - 110x70x20 mm. The length with mounting parts is 190 mm. The connecting pipes have a 3/4″ thread.

Water is consumed at a rate of 1.5 m³/h, with a maximum rate of 3.0 m³/h and a sensitivity threshold of 000.1 m³/h. The nominal diameter (DN) is 15 millimeters, and the nominal diameter is 1/2″. Before and after the device attachment point there must be straight sections of 30 mm in length each; this parameter is provided by the mounting elements. The VALTEC 1/2 water meter operates in accordance with SanPiN 2.1.4.2496-09 and GOST R 51232-98. The verification period is 4 years, the warranty period is 24 months.

Pulse

The Pulse brand belongs to the Moscow company, which has been successfully competing in the domestic market with leading manufacturers of water and heat metering devices for more than 10 years. She also has interesting developments in the field of dispatching utilities and automated accounting. All products are manufactured at our own facilities, equipped with modern technological equipment.

Produced meters. The company offers inexpensive cold and hot water meters. There are also universal models with a 6-year interval between verifications. The consumer can choose products in pulseless or pulsed versions. Household meters are designed for a service life of more than 12 years with a maximum system pressure of 1.6 MPa.

Pros Pulse

1. Affordable price.
2. Wide sales network.

Cons Pulse

1. Sensitivity to pollution and poor water quality.
2. Average workmanship.

Which company's water meter is better to choose?

The rating includes 7 manufacturers, the most popular on the Russian market. They have good coverage, have a transparent pricing policy and value their reputation, so they put the high quality of their products first.

Here are the companies we are talking about:

• Betar is one of the leaders in the production of energy flow meters. Its product line includes both household and industrial models designed for heavy loads. They are distinguished by their compact size, neat shape, clear dial, and resistance to mechanical stress. They are also distinguished from their competitors by a wide range of operating temperatures and a normal response to high pressure in systems.
• Aqua-S - the company produces Pulse flow meters, which are distinguished by high accuracy of readings, versatility, ease of installation and use. They can be used both in apartments and in industrial settings. The products are made from durable materials that are resistant to high humidity. They have a low risk of corrosion, leaks and failures.
• Heat and water meter - the company produces water and heat flow meters with characteristics that meet the requirements of the legislation of the Russian Federation for accounting for the use of natural resources in housing and communal services. She has a wide selection of products with different diameters, functionality, sizes, and degrees of moisture protection. Their installation allows you to forget about verification for as long as 6 years. The company’s devices can be used both at industrial production sites and at private residential properties, depending on the model. One of the popular options in its range is VSG-15-02 110 mm.
• Ecomera - the main activity of this company is the production of control and measuring instruments for metering water consumption, with their help it is possible not to overpay for resources. The range includes wing models made of brass, resistant to moisture and high mechanical loads. The permissible error here is 5%. They are designed for use in temperatures from 5 to 40°C for cold water and from 5 to 90°C for hot media.
• Itelma - the company offers to buy good water meters that count the number of pulses at the media output. Its products have an optimal price-quality ratio. The products are supplied to the market with good packaging, which simplifies the installation of the products. The key difference between the company’s offerings is their ergonomic design, high accuracy and durability; their average trouble-free service life is 15 years. Each flowmeter comes with a warranty of up to 48 months.
• Valtec is a brand owned by . A special place in its catalog is occupied by water meters, which have proven themselves to be excellent in recording the consumed cold and hot water. They are easy to install, easy to use and last for years. All this is ensured by compact dimensions, high-quality assembly, reliable materials, and corrosion resistance.
• ECO NOM is a brand under which affordable water meters are produced. It belongs to, which focuses on accuracy of readings and ease of use. It has both ordinary models and offers with a pulse output for connecting to a single network and receiving information in current time mode. Flow meters monitor the consumption of natural resources at temperatures ranging from 5 to 90°C.

The best descalers

Norm

Since 2011, Domestic has been developing and producing metering devices for household needs. Its products can be found in all regions of the country. The workshop equipment allows the production of any brass products using casting, hot stamping and machining methods.

Produced meters. The company produces meters from chrome-plated brass, cast iron and aluminum alloy with silicon for cold and hot water or universal devices of standard and shortened length with a nominal passage diameter from 15 to 50 mm. There are standard models with local readings and pulsed devices for transmitting data over a distance.

Pros Norma

1. Design proven over years of use.
2. Easy installation.
3. Rotating scoreboard.

Cons Normal

1. Not the most reliable counter mechanism.
2. A characteristic sound when water begins to move.

Zenner DN20 (without bends)

There is an option for cold (ETK) and hot water (ETW). In the first case, the maximum temperature is limited to +30 °C, and in the second - +90 °C. However, special materials allow the devices not to lose their quality at short-term temperatures of +50 °C (for ETK) and +100 °C (for ETW). The counting mechanism consists of 8 rollers.

For remote control, “-IN” modifications are used. They allow pulse transmission of the device state. Thus, they can be connected to electronic radio modules at any time. The device can operate continuously at a water flow rate of 2.5 m³/h. The highest permissible rate of its consumption reaches 5 m³/h.

It is permissible to operate the meter in this mode for approximately 1 hour per day. It is recommended to use no more than 24 m³ of water per day. The lowest flow rate is 0.1 m³/h for vertical installation and 0.05 m³/h for horizontal installation. More accurate measurement results are achieved in a horizontal position.

Gerrida

Kazanskaya has been producing household and industrial water meters of various classes, nominal diameters and throughputs for more than 15 years. There are devices for cold or hot water and universal models. A ruler with a pulse output for remote reading has been developed.

Produced meters. Features of the company's products are double magnetic protection, stone supports for the impeller axis, and increased resistance to hydraulic shocks. Household appliances have minimal weight and compact dimensions, which simplifies installation in any room.

Pros of Gerrida

1. Rotating front panel.
2. Large numbers on the scoreboard.
3. Easy installation.
4. Hull strength margin.
5. Low sensitivity threshold.

Cons of Gerrida

1. There are breakdowns of the counting mechanism.

Rating of the best water meters

When compiling the rating, the main emphasis was on analyzing the characteristics of goods and comparing them taking into account these parameters. Before selecting the nominees, we studied their reviews and recommendations from experts, and also conducted our own experiments.

Here's what we paid attention to when preparing this TOP:

• Type of water flow metering device – for cold or hot, universal;
• Operating temperatures;
• Maximum possible pressure;
• Areas of use;
• Weight and dimensions;
• Shape and design;
• Manufacturing materials;
• Dial quality;
• Possibility of remote control;
• Corrosion resistance;
• Equipment.

We also took into account the accuracy of readings, affordability of the best water meters, ease of installation and use.

What technical features should you pay attention to when choosing a water meter?

The correct payment of utilities depends on the metering devices, so the choice of water meters for an apartment or house is approached with the utmost responsibility. When purchasing, legal standards, requirements of the water supply organization, water quality indicators, operating principles and technical characteristics of the products are taken into account.

The most popular models are usually non-volatile, but there are also devices that require a power source. It is important for you, as the future owner, to be confident in their reliability, know the frequency of verification and the estimated service life.

How to decide on the type of meter for an apartment or house

Well-known manufacturers produce water meters of various operating principles.

Tachometer counters

Tachometer meters have a simple mechanism based on the rotation of an impeller with an impeller, which moves faster the greater the liquid flow rate. An electronic or mechanical counting device records the number of revolutions of the turbine, automatically converting them into the number of cubic meters of water passing through the device.

The device of a tachometer water meter.

The advantages of such products:

• reliable design;
• low cost;
• acceptable accuracy.

Their main disadvantages are considered to be inertia and sensitivity to the quality of the liquid used. Impurities and salt deposits can affect the condition of the impeller. Typically, meters of this type have a design life equal to two runs before scheduled checks of 4-6 years.

Tachometer meter mounted in the water supply network.

This type of counter is divided into two types:

• with wet running;
• with dry running.

In dry-running meters, the entire mechanism is protected from water in a special compartment using a membrane. In wet-running meters, the entire mechanism comes into contact with water, which reduces the life of the device compared to dry-running devices.

It is the tachometer type of counters that is most often used in apartments and houses.

Vortex water meters

Meters of this type have a special bluff body along the path of water movement, behind which a vortex street is formed. The frequency of flux density fluctuations in it is directly related to the speed of fluid movement. By determining it using piezometric pressure sensors, flow can be accurately measured.

Such devices do not have any moving parts and therefore have a long service life. A significant drawback that limits their use in city apartments is the requirement to install the product on a straight section of a pipeline of considerable length.

Vortex water meter.

Electromagnetic water meters

The operation of meters of this type is based on the ability of water to pass electric current through itself. They create an electromagnetic field that causes a response proportional to the speed of the fluid.

Cross-section of an electromagnetic water meter.

Such devices are characterized by high accuracy, but require connection to a power source and are quite expensive.

Electromagnetic water meter.

Ultrasonic water meters

The operating principle of such devices is to measure the travel time of ultrasound in a flow of moving liquid. They provide high measurement accuracy and have pulse outputs that allow data to be archived or transmitted over long distances.

These meters are the most convenient for the consumer, but they take a long time to pay for themselves.

Ultrasonic water meter.

Counter material

The durability of water measuring instruments is largely determined by the material used to manufacture its main elements in contact with the working environment. It must be durable, resistant to corrosion and prevent mechanical deposits from sticking to surfaces. Of great importance is the material of manufacture, ease of casting and machining, which is important for mass production of similar products.

Silumin

This relatively inexpensive aluminum-silicon alloy withstands the water pressure typical of household networks. The service life of such meters is usually determined by the time silumin resists oxygen corrosion.

Brass and bronze

Copper-based alloys practically do not oxidize in an aqueous environment. Due to their high mechanical strength, devices made from them are reliable and can last for decades. Such products are usually more expensive than analogues.

Tachometer counter made of bronze.

The best cold water meters

These flow meters must be in every home, because with their help it is possible to control the consumption of cold water and save on its payment, for example, when leaving home. They are not designed to withstand high temperatures and are cheaper than devices for metering the consumption of hot media. This category describes the 3 best devices according to experts and buyers.

Betar SHV-15 Betar X-15

The device “Betar SHV-15 Bet.X-15” is designed exclusively to control the flow of cold water, and therefore the maximum temperature of the coolant here is 40 degrees. This model is not sensitive to pressure changes and can withstand high values. It is easy to install and can be installed at any angle. Due to its compactness, the product is especially suitable for small spaces. According to customer reviews, it does not leak due to durable materials and special protection.

Advantages

• Acceptable price;
• Squeegees included;
• Interverification interval – 6 years;
• Neat sizes;
• The weight is not great;
• High quality build.

Flaws

• Dull dial;
• Too much plastic in the case;
• No pulse output.

Compared to most models, Betar SHV-15 Betar X-15 has a dial located at the bottom, which may not be very convenient when placing the product in hard-to-reach places.

Ecomera cold ECO-32

The Ecomera device is designed to work with liquids at temperatures from +5 to +40°C; it is not suitable for recording hot media. It can be used in heating networks of housing and communal services. The device body is made of brass and can withstand significant mechanical stress. The water meter is available in three sizes – 1″; 1 1/4″; 1 1/2″; 2″. The design of this model is more complex than that of single-jet options, and therefore its price is several times higher, while the service life is on average 12 years.

Advantages

• Diagonal, horizontal, vertical installation;
• The interval between verifications is 6 years;
• Withstands pressure up to 16 bar;
• Good performance;
• Clear numbers.

Flaws

• No color highlights on the dial.

The Ecomera cold water meter is considered the best in terms of the accuracy of the results it shows down to the smallest values. However, the device has considerable dimensions and is larger than average in height, and therefore will not be the most convenient for small spaces.

Itelma WFK20.D080

...As our experience has shown, the weight of Itelm WFK20.D080 of 0.42 kg does not create a load on the pipes, and the length of 8 cm is convenient for installation in small rooms...

Expert opinion

The Itelma WFK20.D080 water meter deserves to be among the best because of its high sensitivity; it begins to record media consumption at a flow rate of about 10 l/hour. The device can withstand elevated temperatures up to 110°C, but is primarily designed to work with cold liquids.

The device calmly responds to pressure up to 25 atm. Its use is safe for humans and the environment, since nickel is not used in the production of the unit. Among the features of the product, it is worth noting the ease of installation in any position and reliable anti-magnetic protection.

Advantages

• Reading the indication is visual;
• High quality of readings;
• Excellent build;
• Reliable protection against high humidity;
• Great design;
• Frequent verification is not required; it is enough to carry it out once every 6 years.

Flaws

• No pulse output.

Meter SVU-15

Another single-jet dry-running meter is Meter SVU-15. Designed to determine the amount of flowing water at pressures up to 1 MPa. The devices can be equipped with a sensor for transmitting low frequency pulses with a coefficient of 10 l/imp. There is built-in magnetic protection and a connection that does not require sealing.

The design features of the water meter eliminate the possibility of leakage. The minimum and maximum operating water temperatures are +5 and + 90 °C, respectively. Its volume is calculated in cubic meters: with 5 decimal places and 3 after. The body is made of LS-59 brass; the kit also includes a set of connecting fittings.

Class A devices are used for vertical installation, class B devices are used for horizontal installation. The first type has a sensitivity threshold of 0.015 m³/h, and the second - 0.03 m³/h. Water consumption is at the following levels:

1. Minimum - 0.03 and 0.06 m³/h (classes A, B).
2. Transitional - 0.12 and 0.15 m³/h (classes A, B).
3. Nominal - 1.5 m³/h.
4. Maximum - 3 m³/h.

Ecomera ECO-80F

The EKO-80F universal turbine water meter is intended for measuring the amount of water passing in the pipelines of water utilities and heating networks in enterprises and housing and communal services. The measurement is based on counting the number of revolutions of the turbine, which rotates under the influence of water. The nominal bore diameter of the EKO-80F model is 80 mm, which corresponds to its name. The impulse price is 1 cubic meter. m/imp.

Like other Ecomer meters, this model complies with UHL 3 GOST 15150-69. The device consists of an indicator device, a counter and a flow element with a turbine inside. With dimensions of 220×275×300 mm, Ecomera ECO-80F weighs up to 15.2 kg. The maximum operating pressure is 1.6 MPa. The meter should be operated at a temperature of +5...+50 °C, atmospheric pressure of 84-106.7 kPa and relative humidity of 95% at a temperature of +35 °C.

Consumption indicators:

1. Minimum - 1.2 m³/h (class B), 3.2 m³/h (class A).
2. Transitional - 8 m³/h (class B), 12 m³/h (class A).
3. Nominal - 40 m³/h.
4. Maximum - 80 m³/h.

Betar SHV-15

This is a tachometer single-jet meter (dry speed). The model is designed to measure the amount of cold water passing through a pipe at a temperature of +5...+40 °C and a pressure within 1 MPa. Upon request, the water meter is equipped with a shut-off valve that prevents the flow of water in the opposite direction. The water meter Betar SHV-15 is registered in the state register under No. 16078-13.

The diameter of its nominal bore is 15 mm. The nominal water flow rate of the water metering device is 1.5 m³/h, and the sensitivity threshold is 0.015 m³/h. The weight without mounting elements is relatively small - only half a kilogram. The thickness of the unit is 7.5 cm, and the length together with the fittings is 17.2 cm. The connecting size of the latter is G ½, and that of the counter is G ¾. There are two installation methods: vertical and horizontal.

Betar SHV-15 is equipped with a standard counting device with counting up to 99999 m³.

In addition to the passport and packaging, the kit includes:

• gaskets - 2 pcs;
• nut - 2 pcs;
• fitting - 2 pcs.

Varieties

There are the following types of water control meters:

• Tachometer.

The simplest, most affordable and most commonly used type of water meter in everyday life. The operating principle is based on the interaction of the flow with a paddle wheel, the rotation speed of which determines the dial indicators. Based on the design of the working elements, the devices are divided into several subcategories:

1. With impeller.
2. Turbine.
3. Jet.
4. Combined.
5. No contact with water.
6. Digital.
7. With the possibility of hot water metering - depending on the set temperature.

• Ultrasonic.

They are based on the passage of sound pulses generated by a piezoelectric module through a stream and received back by it. A fairly accurate device. Versions for domestic use are produced, but due to their high cost they are not in great demand. Among the main advantages is the non-volatile storage of collected data.

• Electromagnetic.

It is based on an inductive coil that produces a corresponding magnetic field. Based on the nature of its change as it passes through the stream, the water flow parameters are assessed. They are distinguished by the most accurate measurements. However, they are very expensive and therefore are used only for installation on large objects.

Operation diagram of an electromagnetic water meter Source ytimg.com

See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in water supply, sewerage and related work

• Superstatic or vortex.

The device operates on the principle of dividing the flow into three parts using a special swirler and counting the frequency of transitions in individual channels. In private practice, such models are usually not used.

Advice! Popular brands of water meters offer the average consumer almost the same as not very well-known manufacturers. Therefore, when choosing a device, it is necessary to proceed, to a greater extent, not from the popularity of the brand, but from the cost, practicality and benefits of its use in specific conditions.

Installation diagram of a water meter in a private house

In a private house, the installation scheme for a water meter is almost no different from installation in some other place. During installation, you must comply with some conditions:

1. The water meter is installed so that it is convenient to take readings.
2. The place must be accessible for sealing and checking the integrity of the seals.
3. When installed outdoors in a well, the meter must be insulated for use in winter.
4. The floor of the well should be concrete and preferably with a drainage system.

Install yourself or through a company

The water meter can be installed either independently or through a company. If the consumer has experience in installing plumbing fixtures, then it is better to install it yourself. This is, firstly, cheaper, and secondly, it is not known how well the company’s specialists will perform the installation. The main thing is to ensure that everything is installed in the correct order and without leaks.

How to choose specialists and what they should do

If specialists are invited to install a water meter in a private house, then you need to know the following:

1. The installer company’s employees are the most ordinary people, they just have more experience and knowledge in plumbing work. At the same time, no one is immune from errors in work or from negligent attitude towards work.
2. It is better to choose a proven company, for example, on the advice of friends or if you have already worked with them.
3. Do not think that a high price for services will ensure high quality work. Sometimes a company charges a lot of money for a simple installation of a water meter. At the same time, most of the money goes to maintaining the company itself, and workers receive pennies for installation. There are times when a whole team arrives, spends two days doing something unclear, and all this is at the expense of the customer. At the same time, services for the delivery of workers and excavator services can be included in the estimate.
4. It is best to hire a small company or just a master plumber for such work. It will be both cheaper and better. Only the price is discussed in advance.

Basic requirements that people pay attention to when installing a meter in a private home:

1. No leaks. This is perhaps the main requirement during installation. All leaks and holes must be eliminated before sealing, otherwise it will be very difficult to eliminate them later
2. Correct installation. There must be a faucet and a sediment filter in front of the water meter, and a check valve after the water meter. The arrows on the water meter and on the valve point in the direction of water movement. You need to keep an eye on this, because there are different masters, some don’t even know about these nuances.

Self-installation procedure

Do-it-yourself water meter installation in a private home should be done in the following order:

1. Preparing the installation site. At this stage, all welding work and preparation of the inlet and outlet pipes are carried out. The inlet and outlet are located on the same straight line and there should be no distortions in the pipeline. It is best when the water meter is inserted into an existing section of pipe, from which a piece of the required length is cut out. To determine the length of this piece, you need to assemble the entire water meter assembly with all the elements installed and try it on the pipeline.
2. Start of assembly. When installing on an iron pipe, threaded fittings are initially welded onto it, or a thread is cut into the pipe. Adapters are soldered onto metal-plastic pipes, and simply screwed onto polyethylene pipes. There are also plastic pipes with adhesive joints, but they are used much less frequently. Adapters are glued to such pipes with special glue. When soldering or gluing, you need to make sure that water does not get into the joint. This is a very important point; if you miss it, you will have to start all the soldering all over again, not to mention buying new parts.
3. Do-it-yourself installation of a water meter is carried out in the direction of water flow: tap - sediment filter - water meter - check valve. Exactly in this sequence. If a bypass is planned to be installed on the line, then its inlet is cut in before the tap, and the outlet after the check valve. A bypass is a bypass line through which water is allowed to bypass the water meter. It is a section of pipeline with a tap, which is closed when working with a water meter, and open when working without a water meter. When installing a bypass, it is better to install a tap after the check valve, and then plug in the bypass outlet.
4. All threaded connections must be sealed to prevent leaks. There are several ways to seal - tow with paint, tow with sealant, fum tape, sealing thread. For any compaction method, the following rules are observed:

• The seal is wound clockwise.
• The winding layer should not be too thick or too thin. In both cases, leaks are possible.

After installation, check the water meter unit for leaks and eliminate them. If possible, just tighten it up; if that doesn’t help, repack it. When the water meter is installed correctly, there are no leaks, and if there is a loss of water flow, the meter immediately starts working.

What else should you consider when choosing a household water meter?

Since all metering devices must undergo sealing and commissioning procedures, which are carried out by representatives of the water supply organization, it is logical to start choosing a water meter for the apartment

or to a private home with a visit to the company’s office in order to clarify all the requirements for devices of this type. As a rule, you can obtain a list of meter models recommended for installation from your organization, as well as apply for the appropriate permit necessary to carry out installation work.

Also, before buying a water meter, you need to study the technical capabilities of the room in which you plan to install the device: determine the length of the straight section, choose the installation method: vertical or horizontal, etc. The final and, most importantly, correct choice of the consumer also largely depends on these factors.

An important point when purchasing a water meter is the choice of an organization that sells a certified product, with the obligatory presence of a factory mark indicating that it has passed verification. You need to know that each product also has a unique number, which must be indicated in the documentation when putting the device into operation, as well as during scheduled or unscheduled verifications.

And further. A very correct decision may be to seek advice from specialists who, taking into account all the factors and criteria, will help you choose the right water meter. To do this, we suggest contacting our online store “RosSchet”. We not only offer the widest selection of water consumption meters, but also create the most comfortable conditions for customers who, with the help of our consultants, can easily and quickly choose the appropriate device model.

Also on the website rosschet.ru you can submit an application for installation of water meters, and, if necessary, for verification or replacement of an old device with a new one.

Why install water meters?

70% is the average proportion of water in the human body, and to maintain life, we require constant water exchange with the environment. Throughout the history of existence, people have settled near a source of water. At first the water was used for drinking, then for domestic needs.

Today, the overwhelming majority of the world's population has free access to water, and residents of cities and large towns are required to supply water to their homes, usually also hot. However, you have to pay for the service, and anyone who carefully looks at the corresponding columns in the rent receipt knows that this is a relatively expensive service.

But the most frightening thing is not the price, but the amount of payment, because according to the calculation standards of housing and communal services, you consume much more water than in fact and overpay for what you did not use. Another case: water consumption is calculated for the entire house (the total amount is divided by the number registered), and a small family of migrant workers moved into the apartment opposite: ten people. They live illegally, without registration, and they waste – clearly – a lot of water. But they don't pay taxes.

But you, as an honest citizen, pay “for yourself and for that guy.” Is there any justice in this? The third case of clearly uncomfortable conditions for an honest citizen is when he leaves the apartment for a long period (business trip, summer trip to the country, etc.), and payment for water at the full rate is still charged.

The solution to the problem has existed for several decades: installing personal water meters. A simple procedure that will help you:

• save on water bills, since you will pay for the actual volume consumed, and not for inflated housing service standards;
• do not pay for water when you have not used it (during periods of departure);
• do not pay for the water consumption of illegally living neighbors;
• save water. When the owner sees directly rotating consumption figures, he begins to think about how to slow down the growth of these figures. In this case, installing a meter triggers a round of ever-increasing savings: it saves money itself and encourages owners to save even more.

The device itself is extremely simple: it cuts directly into the pipeline and is equipped with a flow meter (inside an impeller, turbine, electromagnet or ultrasonic meter), which transmits data about the water passing through it to an external panel in the form of numbers. Simple household models are not equipped with an electricity supply, while industrial meters (more complex) may require such a supply.

Learn more about how to install the meter yourself in the video:

The only question that remains is: how to choose such a meter, how much it should cost, what parameters to pay attention to, how not to make a mistake, lest it turn out that the cost of the meter + its installation will cover all the water savings.

ITELMA WFK24.D080

This model consists of a camera and an indicator. It is convenient because during installation there is no need to maintain the straightness of adjacent areas. Suitable for placement in administrative buildings, offices, apartments and private houses. This device is used not only by individual consumers, but also by operating and construction organizations.

The model is equipped with an “anti-magnet”. It has a relay for remote reading of the output signal. This ensures the possibility of centralized accounting using other devices. The reading board (m³) is standard, with 5 digits before the decimal point. The installation kit is made of brass and includes gaskets, nuts and fittings (2 pieces each). The connecting size is G ¾.

This is a short device with an installation length of 80 mm, compared with 110 mm and 130 mm for other ITELMA modifications. The maximum permissible water temperature is 30 °C. Its nominal flow rate is 1.5 m³/h.

It is recommended to install a magnetic-mechanical barrier as protection against solid microparticles!

The best premium mechanical water meters

Premium meters differ from regular models in their durable housing and wide functionality. Some devices are designed for certain types of highways. The following devices are recognized as the best.

NORM SVKM-25X

Rating: 4.9

The set of operational characteristics of the NORMA SVKM-25X meter looks most optimal for use in residential buildings and apartments. This factor, along with the impeccable workmanship, was also noticed by experts, giving the model the palm in the rating. The body is made of corrosion-resistant brass. The filling is carefully inserted inside. The meter is designed for installation in a cold water main. The advantage of the model is its compactness and complete installation kit. The pulse output allows you to monitor readings remotely, and magnetic protection prevents possible human intervention.

Users find the meter the best option for installation in apartments and houses. The only drawback is the high price.

Advantages

• flawless assembly;
• presence of a pulse output;
• excellent operational parameters;
• protection from magnetic field.

Flaws

• high price.

Gardena Water Smart

Rating: 4.8

The German Gardena Water Smart meter can provide all the necessary information about water consumption. This device with a digital display allows you to press a button to find out about the volume of leaked water per day, per irrigation cycle or per season, as well as determine the average water consumption at the time of measurement. The model is easily connected to the main line using a threaded fitting. The device can also be used in an automatic watering system for a garden or vegetable garden. The device is powered by a built-in battery; its charge level is also indicated on the display.

Users use the meter not only in apartments and houses, but also in dachas when watering their garden plots. The device is characterized by high accuracy and ease of control. The disadvantages include the need to replace the battery.

Advantages

• high accuracy;
• acceptable price;
• digital display;
• versatility of application.

Flaws

• the battery needs to be changed.

Decast Metronic VSKM 90

Rating: 4.8

The mechanical meter Decast Metronic VSKM 90 has the highest heat resistance. This universal device can operate even at +150ºС, which not all models can boast of. Most often, this product is purchased by specialized organizations; in home use, it is unlikely that anyone will want to pay for extraordinary abilities.

Experts gave the domestic counter third place for its narrow specialization, but its reliability is beyond doubt. The device is able to withstand both strong hydraulic shocks and the influence of a magnetic field. Specialists who install and maintain the meter note its unpretentiousness and durability in operation.

Advantages

• resistance to high temperatures;
• simple and reliable design;
• high-quality components and materials.

Flaws

• narrow scope of application.

ECOMERA ECO-80F

Rating: 4.7

The turbine type water meter EKOMERA EKO-80F is designed for installation on main pipelines with a diameter of 80 mm. Easy installation of the device is carried out thanks to two flange connections. The reliability of the model is ensured by a cast-iron body in which a replaceable measuring mechanism is installed. It consists of a counting mechanism, an insert with a turbine and other parts. Water consumption is measured in the range from 1.2 to 80 cubic meters. m/h. Since this modification was created to account for cold water, the temperature range is +5...+40ºС. The service life of this meter reaches 15 years. The manufacturer has provided protection against magnetic fields.

The disadvantages of the device include high price, heavy weight (15 kg) and limited scope.

Advantages

• reliability and simple design;
• flange connection;
• durability of use.

Flaws

• high price;
• heavy weight.