Each room in which electricity is conducted has an electricity meter. Exceptions can only be those structures that are equipped with a fully autonomous system, such as windmills and solar panels.
Types of electricity meters
An electric meter is a meter for measuring the energy consumption of alternating and direct current.
There are two types of these devices: electronic and induction models. They all differ in the principle of their work, but this does not affect the accuracy of the calculations in any way, since before the sale each device is checked and, if necessary, calibrated by the employees of the respective organizations. The companies are independent, so there is no reason to wait for a trick in their activities. To make it easier to determine the appropriate type of electrical appliance in a particular case, you need to study in more detail the features of each.
Induction
This variety is widespread due to a large number of advantageous features. This is a traditional design equipped with a rotating wheel. The work is based on the principles of magnetic field. This field forms several coils - current and voltage. They set the disk in motion, which starts the counter mechanism.
Of the shortcomings, it is worth noting the accuracy of the calculation. The error is within the acceptable range, but the results could be better.
A significant advantage of the device is its long service life. Some manufacturers give a guarantee for their devices for 10-15 years.
Electronic
This variety can be considered relatively new. The principle of operation is based on the measurement of voltage and current strength in the electrical network. There are no intermediate mechanisms, which ensures high accuracy. All readings are displayed on a small display, and are also stored in the internal memory. In more detail about the advantages of devices:
- Compact size.
- It cannot be stopped or slowed down with a magnet.
- All models are equipped with multi-tariff function.
- There is a built-in self-correction of readings.
- Convenient readings.
- The accuracy of the readings can be increased further, for this a special chip is installed.
Despite the large number of advantages, there are also disadvantages. The most significant is the high cost.
Single-tariff and multi-tariff types of electric meters
One-tariff devices can be called traditional. These are devices that all residents of the post-Soviet space are used to.
Multi-tariff meters in Russia are new, as they have come into the everyday life of consumers relatively recently. The main objective of such a device is to reduce the financial costs of consumers. The essence of saving is the difference in the cost of electricity from the time of day. At night and in the morning it is less than in the evening.
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- Electric meter single-phase multitariff CE102-R5.1
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- Electric power meter single-phase single tariff Taypit Neva 103.5 1S0
Automatic meter type
The automatic type of electric meter is a type of electronic model. Its peculiarity lies in the automatic transfer of data without the participation of homeowners. The process occurs in a timely manner, without losing personal time. Such devices are still not very common in Russia, but experts suggest that in 10-15 years they will be in every second apartment.
Advantages and disadvantages of multi-tariff
New metering devices have their own design features, as well as advantages and disadvantages, which are mandatory for familiarization with the choice of device. The advantages include:
- Environmental friendliness. The number of harmful and toxic to the nature and people emissions into the atmosphere is reduced.
- Tangible savings in the family budget. Experience shows that the device fully pays for itself within one year.
- Facilitating the work of power plants: saving fuel, reducing the cost of repairs and maintenance.
Of the shortcomings of devices, it is worth highlighting only the need to adapt to the tariffs of the meter. If you neglect this, the amount of expenses will not be reduced.
Accuracy class of devices and their power
The accuracy class of the device as a percentage calculates the calculation error. Today, you can use electric meters of accuracy class at least 2.0.
Another important operating parameter is power. It is taken into account even when choosing a device, based on daily electricity consumption - the total load on the electrical circuit in an apartment, house. The assortment has meters with a current load of 5 to 100 amperes.
Terms of use and mounting methods
Modern metering devices are fixed on a special DIN rail or on bolts.
Subject to operating conditions, the equipment is divided into all-weather, designed for outdoor use, and used only in heated and dry rooms. The cost of the latest models is lower.
Which model is better to choose
When choosing a device for accounting for consumed electricity, it is important that the requirements of GOST are taken into account:
- The model must be entered into the general register of metering devices approved in the Russian Federation, and also have an unexpired verification certificate.
- The accuracy class must comply with the regulatory legal acts (not lower than 2.0).
- Each device must have a seal with the state standard mark on the terminal cover. If the meter is installed for the first time, you need to make sure that the seal is not older than 2-3 years.
To simplify the selection process, you should familiarize yourself with the rating of the best models.
| Single tariff, single phase |
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| Multi-tariff, single-phase |
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| Three-phase, single tariff |
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| Three-phase, multi-tariff |
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- Mercury 201
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- ABB FBU-11205
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- Energomera SE-301
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- Neva MT-324
The choice of an electric meter should be approached with all responsibility, otherwise the readings may be incorrect, which will lead to penalties from organizations.
