Types of electricity meters
First of all you need to know what counters are. Basically, they are divided into two types - electronic and induction.
- Electronic counters. These are modern and very popular products to date. They measure directly, that is, the obtained data on the current and voltage are immediately transferred to the instrument memory. After this procedure - on the digital indicator. The rotating parts( as in the induction counter) are absent and everything is based on the operation of the microcircuits. The advantages of this type are undeniable:
- Accuracy class is higher.
- Much easier to transfer problems with loads and overloads.
- Works with different tariffs, ie multi-tariff.
- Data can be removed remotely.
- Induction. These are simple and gradually losing their positions counters, which can be found in any apartment of old construction. The principle of operation is to have two coils - current and voltage. Between them is a magnetic field, which acts as a "driving mechanism".Here everything is simple - the higher the voltage, the faster the disk moves, and, consequently, the instrument readings become higher. Among the advantages can be distinguished its simplicity and durability. The disadvantages are the same - it's not always correct data transmission, poor protection from theft of energy and the possibility of problems with voltage drops.
Of the shortcomings can be identified only its high cost.
Accuracy
The next important factor is the accuracy class of the counter. It is responsible for determining the errors in the measurement. Usually indicated on the dashboard in a small circle or on the scoreboard. The biggest level of error is 2.5 percent. However, this was inherent in the last century, at the moment the largest share of the error is 2 percent. Such an indicator is standard for induction counters and is considered to be quite high. Electronic indicators are 1 and 0.5 percent.
Therefore, when the question "how to choose an electric meter" arises, experts recommend paying attention to electronic models. The fact that their cost is higher than the standard ones should not embarrass customers, since in due course the induction model will be more expensive because of the high level of errors.
Multi-rate and one-rate
These two concepts are easily deciphered:
- Single-rate - the counter indicators occur in one format, in one tariff, so to say, that is, there is no division into daytime and nighttime, winter and summer. This is inherent in standard counters.
- Multi-tariff - the meter keeps readings in 2 or more tariffs. Very convenient and economical.
In addition, you should be aware that if the equipment is on the street, then it is necessary to opt for meters that have a performance in the technical specifications at -40 and possibly lower. How to choose an electricity meter should not be a more complex issue - all questions have a very specific and simple answer.
