Electric meters are divided into electronic and induction devices. Induction (mechanical) is a counter with a disk. The magnetic field of the two coils that make up the product sets such a disk in motion. It spins faster due to increased voltage.
In recent years, electronic products are replacing mechanical ones. They are more accurate than old-style units and have the following advantages:
- small sizes;
- easy to read;
- possibility of integration into automated systems;
- the impossibility of hacking the electricity meter;
- high class of accuracy.
Which is better to put a meter - single-phase or three-phase, what are their differences? Some believe that three-phase input allows you to consume more electricity, but this is not entirely true. The dimensions of a three-phase device are indeed very different from a single-phase electricity meter, however, a three-phase connection has its drawbacks:
- permission required;
- higher fire risk;
- modular overvoltage limits should be installed.
The advantages of this device include:
- the ability to install powerful electric boilers, heaters, electric stoves;
- you can redistribute the voltage load between the phases.
Connecting a three-phase electricity meter makes sense if the house is large, or if a powerful unit will be connected to the network. In other cases, it is more appropriate to install a single-phase device.
Which electricity meters are better to install? When choosing a product, we pay attention to such a moment as the accuracy class. For example, class 2, 0 is quite suitable for an apartment. The user should also be interested in the multi-tariff function, of course, if it is connected in this region.
When choosing an electricity meter, it is advisable to know in advance which device is needed. To do this, you need to look into the technical conditions of the house or apartment. Before buying, you should also study the product data sheet. There are rules for installing new units, which say that the devices must be sealed, and the three-phase meter must have a seal that is no more than 12 months old. On a single-phase product, a calibration period of no more than 2 years is allowed. When buying, be sure to check the presence of these seals. They can be both internal and external, made of lead or plastic. The internal seal, as a rule, is filled in with mastic. A copy of this seal should be on the last page of the device's passport.
How to read the electricity meter? If it is new, the readings on it are not necessarily zero. Imagine a situation that a meter is being replaced in an apartment. The previous testimony was taken and recorded on 10 October. We will first calculate according to the indicators of the old counter. It was removed with readings of 880 (kWh), and the new device was installed with such figures - 240 (kWh). At present, the numbers on the device are 280 (kWh). The readings for the previous month for the old machine are 937 (kWh) as of November 10.
So, let's count:
- 937-880=57 (kWh) - according to the old device.
- 280-240=40 (kWh) - new machine.
- From October 10 to November 10 - 57+40=97 (kWh).
There is a large selection of counters on the market. However, this device is best purchased with a specialist who is well versed in all technical issues.
