Which water meter is better to install in an apartment

ECO NOM SV-15-110

One of the best functional water meters. You can buy and install it in your apartment for only 400 rubles. A functional device from the TOP 2021 occupies the top positions in all ratings.

Made in accordance with GOST requirements. Mount the water meter horizontally and vertically. The body is made of brass and durable metal. Resists the effects of destructive humidity.

The manufacturer claims that the meter is able to maintain water pressure and pressure. Transfers overheated water, which has a negative effect on other devices.

The period of operation, subject to compliance with the rules, reaches 12 years. Antimagnetic protection installed. It operates completely silently.

Main technical characteristics:

accuracy class B;
installation length – 110 mm;
flow rate 1.5 m³/hour.

The advantage is an affordable price. Disadvantage: unclear instructions. Overall, this is the most functional water meter. It’s worth buying this device from the TOP 2021 and installing it in your apartment.

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.

ITELMA WFW20.D110

Costs from 690 rubles. Considered the best in the TOP 2021. Made using innovative technologies using European components.

The company provides a 6-year warranty. This is significantly more than numerous competitors. This allows us to classify the water metering device as one of the TOP 2021.

The device is endowed with unique qualities and properties. The main ones:

withstands water temperatures up to 110 degrees;
Horizontal as well as vertical installation is allowed;
exhibits resistance to high pressure in pipes of 25 atmospheres.

To install a meter in an apartment, you will need to contact professionals. The equipment does not fail and continues to function during pressure tests when the utility service supplies high pressure.

Specifications:

accuracy category B;
normal installation length – 110 mm;
the nominal flow rate is 1.5 m³/hour.

The advantage is a fairly high working life and a long warranty. There are few disadvantages, but some owners, despite the advantages stated by the manufacturer, complain about the quality of workmanship. This is due to the mass production of models of this brand.

On average, a water meter can last 12 years. Thanks to this, it is considered the best solution from the TOP 2021 water volume meters. It’s worth putting it in the apartment.

Tachometer counters

This type of water meters is the most common. They operate on a simple principle.

Operating principle and design

The main element of the meter is the impeller. It has a perpendicular orientation of its axis relative to the direction of the water supply. The nominal diameter of a device of this type does not exceed 50 mm.

Tachometer meters are installed to measure the flow of both cold and hot water, if we are talking about small volumes. These water meters are not designed for high flow rates.

When an avalanche of water transits through the impeller, it moves in a circle. Each is accompanied by the pouring of a certain amount of liquid through the device. The more pressure the water creates, the faster the impeller rotates.

A sensitive counting mechanism receives information about the number of revolutions through the gearbox, and all changes are shown by the dial.

Devices with an impeller can be single-jet, multi-jet, or combined. First, water is supplied to the input blades in one stream. A magnetic coupling sends a torsional impulse to the counting unit indicator. Experts advise installing such meters on hot water pipelines with a cross-section of 15 to 30 mm.

In multi-jet models, the flow is broken into parts on the way to the impeller. The measurement error decreases because the blades are exposed to the same force. In this case, flow turbulence is completely eliminated.

The device is designed for installation on cold water pipes with a maximum diameter of 50 mm. This water meter is ergonomic and easy to install and dismantle if you need to perform verification.

When the coverage of water use measurements needs to be expanded, a combined type tachometer device is installed. It is understood that with a change in the flow rate, one counter comes into operation. The transition occurs automatically.

A combined meter consists of a main and an additional device. The first is activated by opening the valve when large volumes of water are consumed

There is only one measuring unit, it is highly accurate and sealed, so it works even in flood conditions. For pipe diameters greater than 50 mm, a rotating turbine is installed in the design of the device instead of an impeller. In this case, the water meter is installed along the axis of the main line. The ideal place to install it is at the entrance.

Such meters are installed on pipelines of industrial enterprises with a cross-section of up to 500 mm, where significant volumes of water flow. The direction and angle of the flow is determined by a special fairing.

Advantages and disadvantages

Mechanical water meters are compact. They can be installed in remote places, so they do not spoil the interior of the room. The simplicity of the design allows these devices to be priced at an acceptable price for most consumers. The error in their readings is insignificant.

Tachometer counters are non-volatile devices. The main element in their design is the impeller placed in the water. The volume of water is calculated by the number of revolutions it makes.

The following characteristics are considered negative:

blade wear;
sensitivity to impurities present in water;
dependence of water meter readings on the magnetic field;
inability to record instantaneous flow;
the presence of moving elements in the flow chamber.

Despite the presence of shortcomings, if you follow the verification schedule, the meter can last up to 12 years. The device does not require external power supplies to operate.

Dry and wet-propelled devices

Based on the location of the counting device, tachometer water meters are divided into dry and wet running. In the first case, the liquid has no effect on the counting mechanism. The rotational movement from the impeller is transmitted to it through a special magnetic coupling.

The mechanism is protected from corrosion by an impenetrable partition. The model has a fairly high cost, but it can be used even where hot water is supplied, which contains foreign impurities in large quantities.

In addition, the accuracy of the readings of such a device is very high. If there is a need for remote data acquisition, you can include a pulse output device in the system.

Mount the pulse output unit directly at the pipeline inlet. The information transformed into an impulse is sent to the recording device

The module collecting information can be located at any distance from the measurement site.

In a wet-flow device, the counting unit is in constant contact with dirty liquid. This negatively affects the duration of its service. To correct the situation, a filter is installed in front of the meter.

VALTEC VLF-15U

Cost from 700 rubles. The model belongs to the universal category. Suitable for measuring hot water flow and cold water supply. Use temperature – from 5 to 95 degrees.

A European approach is applied at each production stage. Due to this, the device is regarded as one of the best in the TOP 2021. Many people decide to put it in their apartment.

The model's appearance is attractive. There is a protective film on the glass. The kit includes a wire intended for sealing. These little details create a general impression of the device. Many consider this device to be the best solution when it comes to the question of which water meter should be installed in a city apartment.

Among the main modifications of this meter from the TOP 2021 are models equipped with a pulse output. There is a wire for organizing remote reading of readings. This model is designated by the letter I. The characteristics of the meter are standard:

accuracy class B;
nominal flow rate – normal – 1.5 m³/hour;
installation length is 110 mm.

The advantage is the complete set. Disadvantages include statements found in reviews that some models leak.

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

Cost from 600 rubles. Water meters from this manufacturer are produced under the NEVOD series. This is a universal device suitable for measuring water of different temperatures. Many choose this option from the TOP 2021.

A wasted water meter can be installed in a modern city apartment or house. The device is able to withstand any water temperature and standard pressure level characteristic of the pipeline.

The manufacturer produces two modifications:

with the letter “I” – for transmitting low frequency pulses;
with the letter “M” – has installed modules of the M-Bus category, is equipped with autonomous power supply and additional memory.

This TOP 2021 device is connected to a smart home. Additional positive factors include:

presence of antimagnetic protection;
compact dimensions;
durable housing that prevents leaks;
kit includes everything needed for installation.

In addition, such a counter can withstand temperatures of 100 degrees Celsius for a short time. Among the additional technical characteristics, those who have already installed it in the apartment highlight:

accuracy class A;
installation length of 110 mm;
nominal flow rate is 1.5 m³/hour.

This counter from the TOP 2021 is suitable for those who are looking for which device to install in their apartment. Along with the advantages listed above, there are a couple of minor disadvantages.

The first is the cost, which is slightly higher than its analogues. The second is expressed in complaints from users who mention that the device often breaks after the warranty expires.

Despite these shortcomings, the model is deservedly included in the TOP 2021. The device, according to all its characteristics, is suitable for installation in an apartment.

Ultrasonic and vortex devices

In addition to mechanical and electromagnetic, there are two more types of flow meters on sale. The first of them are ultrasonic. They are also classified as volatile, so they require electrical energy to operate.

Operation and data recording in this case is carried out using ultrasound. By moving in the direction of movement of the carrier, as well as against it, ultrasound allows you to obtain the data necessary for comparison. A water meter of this type has one significant disadvantage - high cost.

Note! Among the positive aspects, it is necessary to mention the long service life of ultrasonic devices (15 years).

In addition to mechanical and electromagnetic meters, there are also ultrasonic devices.

In turn, the vortex models determine the amount of water passing through them using a special electronic device. The design of such models implies the presence of a special barrier that creates a turbulence in the water. The rate of formation of such a track is a key indicator. The electronic device reads this parameter and, based on the received data, determines the media consumption.

Cold water meters, as well as devices used in the DHW network, work effectively only if the water does not contain contaminants. The service life of vortex devices is approximately 8 years.

Thus, in conditions that correspond to the operation of domestic pipes, only mechanical models - tachometer ones - work relatively well. Therefore, it is mechanical devices that occupy a leading position in sales.

Pros and cons of an ultrasonic water meter

The main mechanism of operation is to calculate the difference in sound transmission over time. Thus, the received data is sent to the computer, which determines the flow of cold and hot water. It is worth noting that the information received is saved in the archive. Having studied various photo diagrams, we can identify the standard components of these types of devices. These are the details:

Flow measurement segment;
Calculator;
Pulse transmitter.

These types of meters with an ultrasonic operating mechanism have a number of advantages:

High accuracy of cold and hot water consumption data;
Capable of measuring a wide flow volume;
No moving elements;
Instantaneous consumption calculation;
Functioning of the archival system;
Long service life.
Ultrasonic meters have the following advantages:

There are only two disadvantages in the performance of these meters, namely:

Operates exclusively with autonomous power supply;
Exposure to air bubbles may result in inaccurate flow rates.

PULSE 15U-110

This counter is one of the cheapest in the TOP 2021. Costs from 560 rubles. Many citizens place it in their apartment. It is also suitable for office premises in megacities, outside the city in private buildings.

If an innovative functional smart home system is installed in the apartment, installing this model is a good solution. There is built-in functionality that allows you to transfer information to third-party media.

Functional advantages include the ability to install vertically and horizontally at the discretion of the owner.

The built-in counter mechanism will not be destroyed by moisture. The built-in impeller is in contact with it. When untwisted, it gives energy to the gears. The body is durable, made of brass. The kit includes a valve that prevents outflow.

The main characteristics of this device from TOP-2021 include:

accuracy class – standard (B);
installation length is 110 mm, but there are models with a length of 80 mm;
the nominal flow rate reaches 1.5 m³/hour.

There is an easy to read dial. There are practically no shortcomings, except for the poorly painted body, but this is of little concern to buyers. Many, choosing a water meter from the TOP 2021, decide to install it in their apartment.

Electromagnetic water meters

These metering meters do not have rotating elements. The magnet of the device interacts with the flow of water and allows you to calculate its consumption.

Electromagnetic meters are distinguished by high measurement accuracy and high cost.

They are used as general house meters and metering meters in the food industry. They work in wastewater.

Electromagnetic meters

Ecomera ECO-15U

Meter costing from 470 rubles. In TOP 2021 - this is the best solution. It can be installed in an apartment without any problems. Differs in laconic dimensions. Official documents contain a mark indicating that the product has been certified and tested by Rostest.

Among the main characteristics are:

ability to withstand extreme water temperatures;
body made of brass;
built-in antimagnetic protection;
a unique measurement mechanism that completely eliminates failures;
period of use reaching 10-12 years.

The counter from TOP 2021 is characterized as universal. It can be installed on pipes of any size and material. The nominal flow rate is 2.5 m³/hour. The model passes a greater flow of water per hour than its analogues and does not break down. The water meter has accuracy class A, and the installation length is 110 mm.

The advantage of the device, which can be installed in an ordinary city apartment, is its high throughput.

The disadvantage is the plastic body. Despite this, a water meter is suitable as a solution to which is the best water meter from TOP 2021 to install in a house or apartment.

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.

Decast VSKM-20

One of the expensive models of modern devices for measuring wasted water. Cost from 2600 rubles.

The price of this model from the TOP 2021 is justified by the following advantages:

connection to interfaces of different brands and categories for remote transmission of indicators;
installation length 130 mm;
versatility - suitable for different buildings and rooms with low water consumption.

Based on the listed characteristics, we can conclude that this is the best meter for recording spent water in the TOP 2021, which can be installed in an apartment if a person is not limited in his choice to the budget segment.

The case has sapphire bearings. They remove friction, automatically increasing service life. The mechanism rotates 360 degrees. Thanks to this, you can view the readings regardless of how the screen is rotated.

The accuracy class of this meter corresponds to category A. The nominal flow rate is 2.5 m³/hour. The only drawback with all its advantages is the high cost. However, this is the best solution in the TOP 2021, which can be installed in a standard city apartment.

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.

Standard SVKM-25Х

The meter costs 2900 rubles. One of the high-quality devices from the TOP 2021. Suitable for installation in a house or apartment. It can also be installed in institutions where there is high water consumption. The nominal flow rate is 3.5 cubic meters per hour. This is a fairly high parameter, which is completely unjustified in the domestic sphere.

The coupling in the device is protected by a specialized antimagnetic layer. The body is classic - made of brass, but with additional chrome plating.

The package contains the parts necessary for installation, but in order to install the device, you will need to additionally organize an external power source. The installation length is 160 mm. Before purchasing such a counter, it is worth calculating whether it will fit in the chosen location.

The high quality of this metering device from the TOP 2021 is overshadowed by the fact that the device cannot be classified as universal. The owner will need to buy and place a separate model under cold and also under warm water.

The meaning of inscriptions and symbols on meters

Symbols and inscriptions on water meters can tell a lot about the device. Therefore, you need to learn to decipher them in order to find out certain capabilities of the product and determine which meter is suitable for specific conditions.

Manufacturers put four main designations on devices:

Qmax is the maximum flow rate that does not cause errors in the operation of the device. The device can operate at this flow rate for a maximum of 1 hour. This must be followed by a break.
Qn is the optimal flow rate for the water meter. In relation to its maximum capability, this parameter is 50% less. In the case when a volume of water equal to the normal flow rate passes through the body of the device, it will function flawlessly. The device will be able to pass verification and will not have to be replaced with a new one for a long time.
Qmin is the lowest flow rate that gives the smallest error when measuring water flow.
Qt is the pressure at which it is unprofitable to operate a water measuring device, since it begins to operate with a significant error. At the same time, it is difficult to predict what sign the error value will have - it can be either a minus or a plus to the actual readings.

In addition to these designations, the maximum temperature at which the device can operate is marked on the body of the water meter.

There are meters for hot and cold liquids on sale. There are also universal ones that operate in a wide temperature range without errors.

Cold water flow meters have the inscription 40 °C and the housing is blue. The casing of flow meters for hot water is red or, which is much less common, black. On this background there will definitely be the inscription 90 °C.

If water whose temperature exceeds 90 °C is centrally supplied under pressure, you need to select the meter marked 150 °C.

Betar SGV-15 3⁄4

By purchasing a meter at a price of 700 rubles, the owner will receive a functional water meter suitable for installation in an apartment.

The manufacturer produces models separately for different water temperatures. But they have a low level of protection against moisture and pollution. For this reason, few people choose this model to install in their own apartment.

There are several modifications of this counter that differ in purpose. There is a simple option equipped with a special pulse output. The latter is about 200 rubles more expensive. The device not only records consumption, but, if necessary, notifies about attempts to carry out any manipulations.

The characteristics of the metering device include:

high accuracy class - A;
installation length is not higher than 110 mm;
the nominal flow rate is 1.5 m³/hour.

The presence of a version with the possibility of remote transmission is the main advantage of such meters. There are practically no shortcomings, except that some people note that the numbers on the dial are too small.

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.