A gas meter effectively optimizes fuel costs. Despite the impressive cost of metering devices, they pay for themselves quite quickly and allow you to pay only for the volume actually consumed, and not for the accrual according to the standards. Based on the advice of specialists from gas supply companies, we will figure out how to choose the right gas meter and which meter will be the optimal solution for an apartment or house.
- Counter type
- Bandwidth
- Direction
- Connection features
- Nominal diameter
- Location
- Center distance
- Additional equipment
- Verification and replacement period
- The best manufacturers
| The best gas meters | ||
| 1 | Gasdevice NPM G4 | Ideal solution for low quality gas |
| 2 | Betar SGBM-1.6 | The best combination of price and quality |
| 3 | Elster BK-G4T | The best solution for private houses |
| 4 | Elehant SGB-1.8 | Equipped with a remote release system |
| 5 | Turbulence-DON Grand-1.6 | Compact, extremely easy to install |
Counter type
Which type of gas meter to choose
Before you begin directly evaluating the models, you should decide on the type of gas meter. The most widespread are three varieties, which we will consider in more detail.
Chamber
or
membrane
gas meter. This is the most popular type of meter for domestic use. It is safe due to its robust sealed housing and benefits from its simple design and durability. The service life of such a device is up to 30 years, with verification performed every 15 years. The device is not demanding on gas quality. But it is quite large in size and noisy.
Rotary
or
the rotary
type is used much less frequently. The meter is small in size and affordable. However, this design has many disadvantages. Glass is susceptible to damage, which means there is a greater likelihood of gas leakage, verification must be carried out every 2 years, the service life is short, and the accuracy of the readings is not always high.
The most expensive and presented is electronic (inkjet)
gas meter.
The device is easy to set up and has a compact size. Most accurately calculates gas consumption. Verification is carried out once every 10 years. Makes virtually no noise. Turbine
and
ultrasonic ones
are extremely rarely produced for domestic use; they are intended for measuring large volumes on an industrial scale.
We recommend choosing an electronic or membrane type device for installation in an apartment. You should rely on available budgets. Both of them keep track of consumption equally effectively.
Betar SGBM-1.6
The best combination of price and quality
The meter is affordable and of very high quality, this is confirmed by both specialists and users. Thanks to this, the device has become one of the most popular for installation in apartments with one flow point.
Rating of gas meters for apartments
According to consumer reviews, meters from , Actaris, Betar, Elser, Elehant, and Gazdevice rarely malfunction. Some models come with a slot for a smart card, which helps to find out data about the status of the device and the current invoice for payment.
Gasdevice NPM-G4
A Russian-made budget controller can be installed for two appliances - a stove + a wall-mounted or floor-standing gas boiler. The meter is available for left-hand and right-hand fuel flows. It works quietly and smoothly. The data is accurately displayed at full load when the boiler and stove are on. If one gas appliance is running, the meter spins unstably.
It is recommended to install the controller inside heated rooms. When installing outdoors, a temperature coefficient is applied, for which you will have to pay extra. The meter is large in size – it protrudes 18 cm from the wall. Therefore, it is better to purchase it for spacious rooms.
Price:
- 2000 rub.
Advantages:
- can be placed outdoors;
- easy to find on sale;
- durable body;
- large numbers are shown;
- gas inlet pressure stabilization function;
- verification after 10 years - calculated from the date of issue.
Flaws:
- it squeaks when gas consumption is high;
- may leak gas from under the display glass;
- unattractive appearance;
- non-electronic scoreboard;
- takes up a lot of space;
- connection adapters are purchased separately.
Betar SGBM-1.6
The gas meter for the home is very compact - 70x88x76 mm, weighs only 0.7 kg. Installation is possible in vertical and horizontal positions. The device operates silently and does not create vibrations or interference with radio devices. The thermal correction function makes the device independent of the seasonal gas temperature and helps to accurately measure the fuel used. Thanks to the built-in calendar, you can track whether there was a power outage during the operation of the meter.
A lithium battery is installed inside the controller. Without it, measurement information will not be displayed on the screen. According to reviews, the battery needs to be replaced every 5-6 years, and not after 12 years, as stated by the manufacturer. A dim screen will indicate the need to replace the battery.
Price:
- 2000 rub.
Advantages:
- attractive appearance;
- suitable for tight spaces;
- accurate readings;
- universal installation;
- possibility of battery replacement;
- There is a tee included.
Flaws:
- cannot withstand too low temperatures;
- It is difficult to find a battery on sale.
SGK-G4 Signal
The model is suitable for kitchens with right- or left-hand fuel flow. The device can withstand the load of a 4-burner stove with oven. Operation is possible at very low and high temperatures, so feel free to install the controller outdoors, in unheated rooms. On the front there is a reliable counting mechanism that provides data with minimal error.
- Earning money by watching videos without investments - creating and posting videos on the channel, options for generating income
- Sweet zucchini pancakes
- Increasing pensions for pensioners of the Ministry of Internal Affairs - types of pension provision and indexation procedure
The meter starts instantly at the first gas flow and stops just as quickly. This ensures efficient and safe operation. The device does not creak and makes virtually no noise. The body is made of gas-resistant anti-corrosion materials. Contaminants penetrating from the line do not affect the quality of operation of the device.
Price:
- 2600 rub.
Advantages:
- Available in left and right versions;
- durable steel body;
- uninterrupted operation of the counting mechanism;
- quick installation;
- A detailed instruction manual is included.
Flaws:
- big.
Elehant SGB-1.8
This electronic gas meter is ideal for cramped kitchens. The case comes with plastic covers that are easily replaced. You can choose a shade that harmoniously fits into the interior of the kitchen. The display comes with a backlight, which can be turned off if necessary. To make it easier to read the data, the image on the screen is rotated by repeatedly pressing the button. Due to this, the device can be installed in any position.
The device accumulates and stores information about fuel consumption for each month throughout the year. In addition to monthly gas consumption, the meter displays a calendar and information about the device. Switching between current readings and other data occurs by pressing the button once.
Price:
- 1500 rub.
Advantages:
- laconic design;
- durable plastic;
- changing the color of the case;
- not conspicuous - compact, neat;
- works smoothly;
- displays data without error;
- battery life;
- service life - 24 years.
Flaws:
- without thermal corrector;
- If used carelessly, the button gets stuck.
Arzamas SGBE-2.4
A compact electronic device without moving parts, therefore it is extremely reliable in operation. The body is made of lightweight and durable zinc-aluminum alloy. Installation is possible in horizontal and vertical positions, convenient for reading readings. When installing, the direction of gas flow must coincide with the arrow on the housing.
The device operates silently, the lithium battery will last for about 8-12 years. The amount of gas used is calculated taking into account temperature correction. For remote readings, the controller is equipped with a pulse output.
Price:
- 2000 rub.
Advantages:
- durable body;
- compact dimensions;
- easy installation;
- uninterrupted operation;
- accurate data display;
- service life - 24 years.
Flaws:
- No.
GRAND - 6
Compact and neat gas meter with thermal corrector. It is installed in apartments or cottages and connected to boilers of different capacities. The model is available in three colors (white, gray, orange), so you can easily choose an option to suit any kitchen interior.
- 7 Foods That Instantly Lower Blood Sugar
- 9 things everyone should do after retirement
- How can a working pensioner receive pension indexation?
Installation is carried out in a convenient horizontal or vertical position. Installation is simple and quick and does not require gas welding. If necessary, the device can be installed in unheated rooms or outdoors. There are no unpleasant squeaks during operation, the data is accurate, the error is 2.5%. Fuel consumption readings are adjusted depending on temperature. The measurement results are clearly displayed on the LCD display.
Price:
- 4800 rub.
Advantages:
- laconic design;
- available in three colors;
- resistance to pollution;
- large digital display;
- shows temperature;
- the body rotates;
- possibility of battery replacement;
- stable operation at low pressure in the gas pipeline;
- built-in smart card;
- 12 year warranty.
Flaws:
- fragile materials;
- The battery drains quickly.
SGM-1.6 1/2
This counter is so small that it can be easily installed behind a cabinet or refrigerator. The device weighs only 0.6 kg. The housing is sealed with no moving parts and is resistant to mechanical damage. Installation is simple, possible in vertical and horizontal (right, left) positions.
The display rotates at any angle convenient for taking readings. The device can withstand the load from 4-burner gas stoves with an oven. If installed correctly, the error is minimal. Otherwise, the meter can display readings even when the gas stove is not working - check the correct installation before use.
Price:
- 1600 rub.
Advantages:
- rotating display;
- universal design;
- data is clearly displayed;
- pulse output for external accounting system;
- detailed instructions for checking the device.
Flaws:
- No.
Elster Gaselectronics BK-G4
The Russian-German model is intended for installation inside an apartment. Modern design, high measurement accuracy, ease of operation are not all the advantages of this device. The body is made of durable steel. A counting mechanism with a cover is installed on the front panel. Eight drums with numbers that display current readings are clearly visible.
The best gas meter for an apartment is protected from external interference. It is quite reliable and safe to use and can be connected to a boiler or stove. The controller is available in two versions - there are left- and right-handed models. The choice of meter depends on the direction of gas supply. There is a hole on the side of the device where a device for remote information transfer is connected.
Price:
- 3400 rub.
Advantages:
- easy to find on sale;
- manufactured using German technologies;
- silent;
- blocking from fuel reverse flow;
- efficient operation without a gas filter;
- detailed operating instructions;
- service life - 24 years.
Flaws:
- without thermal corrector;
- big;
- high installation cost.
Bandwidth
Select a meter based on consumption volumes
Gas meters have different capacities
, which is very important to consider in order to choose the right meter. Professionals advise entrusting the calculations to the designer or calculating the consumption yourself and taking the device with a reserve.
A gas meter with the smallest throughput will be the optimal solution for an apartment in which there is only one gas stove and no other consumption points. If there is only an HSV dispenser in the house, then you need a G-2.5
, if both devices, then
G-4.
Accordingly, devices of classes
G-6 and G-10
are required in a room where there are three or more points of consumption. This must be taken into account when choosing a meter based on standard regulated expenses.
| Marking on the meter | Throughput (m3/hour) |
| G-1.6 | 1,6-2,5 |
| G-2.5 | 2,5-4 |
| G-4 | 4-6 |
| G-6 | 6-10 |
| G-10 | 10-16 |
Flow parameters and the required type of meter are indicated in the design documents. To make the right choice, we advise you to focus on them. You can also collect passports of all consuming devices, calculate their total consumption and select a meter that covers this value.
The standard size of the meter is indicated in the accompanying documents and on the front panel of the device. The most common and most suitable gas meters for installation in an apartment or house are marked G-2.5, G-4
. However, you need to choose a device in accordance with the planned costs.
Installation Tips
Now that you know how to choose a gas meter for an apartment, you should find out the answer to another important question - how to install a gas meter in an apartment?
At the first stage, you need to submit an application for installation of a gas meter in your apartment at the gas organization. Remember! Without obtaining permission from a specialized organization, you cannot begin installation work.
When planning installation, you should remember some of the requirements for this process. Develop a design diagram in compliance with the rules for installing gas meters in the apartment.
The height of such a device must be at least 1.6 meters . It is important to leave a three-centimeter gap between the equipment and the wall. This way the meter will be protected from corrosive processes.
If the meter is placed in a room, the space should be freed from sources of heat and moisture as much as possible. In addition, it is necessary to ensure natural ventilation of the room. The meter must not be placed in a stagnant area of the room.
In a project indicating how to install a gas meter in an apartment correctly, it is necessary to calculate the radii of pipe bends, the optimal distance between the metering device and heating equipment, and other parameters that will directly affect the performance of the device.
Once permission is received, installation can begin. Of course, it is better to entrust this matter to specialists : after the inspection, the gas service will issue an invoice for the services. When installing, do not forget about a special dust filter .
If it is missing, the meter will not work properly. Attention! When installing the meter, gas devices and documentation will be checked, so make sure in advance that everything is in order.
The technician will immediately make a note in the passport for the supplied meter, or you will have to contact the gas service to register the installation. After this, the meter will be sealed, you will receive a contract, sign an acceptance certificate (2 copies), a gas appliance commissioning certificate (3 copies) and a maintenance contract (3 copies).
After signing all the documents, you can start using the metering device. These works (taking into account the purchase of not the most expensive equipment) will cost you an average of 3-5 thousand rubles.
Installing a gas meter in an apartment? photo
Now you know how to install a gas meter in an apartment, prices for different gas meters and the features of their choice. All that remains is to decide on a suitable model, develop an installation project, purchase the device - and contact the specialists.
Read about which linoleum is best for an apartment: the varieties and classification are described, and the best options for living rooms are indicated. All criteria for choosing an electric storage water heater for an apartment are described here.
Read about air humidity standards in an apartment for a child at: https://kvartira-rf.com/obustrojstvo/norma-vlazhnosti-v-kvartire.html
Direction
Choosing the right direction of gas movement
Another guideline for choosing the best gas meter for an apartment will be the direction of gas flow. This parameter is very important to take into account, since the gas meters themselves are divided into right-handed
and
left-handed
. It is physically impossible to install the equipment the other way around.
To select the device correctly, it is important to clearly understand the installation diagram of the measuring device. On the meter body the direction is indicated by an arrow; compliance with this condition is critical. In a gas pipeline, it is determined by the gas flow; the gas meter indicator must correspond to it.
Right- or left-handed
In order to comply with all the rules for installing a gas meter, you need to select a device that is suitable for its design. The counter can be left-handed or right-handed. This is easy to determine; there is an arrow on the meter body that indicates the direction of gas flow. If you take the counter with the dial facing you, and the arrow goes from left to right, then the counter is left-handed, but if the arrow goes from right to left, then it is right-handed.
Connection features
Choosing a gas meter based on the type of connection When
choosing the right gas meter, you also need to take into account the connection features. How is the device attached to gas pipeline pipes? There are two options: threaded and flanged
compound.
The choice depends directly on the characteristics of the gas pipeline. But, as a rule, models with threads
. They are widely presented in stores and allow you to ensure the proper level of sealing. Easy and quick to install.
Flanged
The connection is typical for a gas pipeline with high throughput. They are not widely used in the household segment and are more often used in industry. However, when looking for a device, you should focus on the characteristics of the pipes to which the meter will be mounted: sometimes in private homes you can find a similar solution.
Gasdevice NPM G4
Ideal solution for low quality gas
The device is highly wear-resistant and works well with low-quality gas. In addition, the meter is equipped with an additional dust filter.
Bottom line
A gas meter helps you save natural gas and take a more conscious approach to its use. It is important that the device itself shows correct data and accurately records the result. A good device must be highly reliable in order to cause the owner a minimum of hassle with checking and replacement.
The gas supply organization will help you select the ideal unit, and you must contact it before installation.
Do you have a gas meter installed in your apartment? Does it help you save?
Nominal diameter
How to choose the right diameter
The diameter of the connecting thread of the meters directly depends on the characteristics of the pipe. The issue should be given sufficient attention, since the meanings may differ.
If a gas meter is purchased for an apartment, then you can safely take a device with a diameter of 1/2 inch (15 DN)
. This is a basic solution for a domestic gas pipeline, which is included in the construction standards. Therefore, it is almost impossible to make a mistake.
If the house was built according to an individual project, the diameter may vary. Here, in addition to the standard solution, pipes with a diameter of 1 (25 DN)
or
3/4 (20 DN) inch
. For reliable data, please refer to the project documentation.
If there is a discrepancy in the store, the device will not be accepted back. In accordance with the Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation, it is included in the list of non-food products of good quality that cannot be returned or exchanged for a similar one.
If you have already purchased a meter and the diameter of the connecting thread differs from the parameters of the pipeline, you can use adapters. This will prevent you from purchasing a new device.
Location
Where will the gas meter be installed?
In accordance with the rules, a gas meter can be installed both indoors and outdoors. The latter is relevant for private houses.
Choosing a room
device, it is important to take into account the throughput, location, direction of gas movement and noise level. According to experts, the presence of a thermal corrector for a gas meter used in an apartment is completely unjustified. As a rule, a room with good ventilation has a stable temperature regime.
Street choice
meter is practically no different from a room meter. Except that in this case the presence of a temperature compensator is necessary. The absence of a sensor will lead to incorrect recording of gas flow and distortion of measurement results due to temperature changes. Without this addition, consumption will be underestimated in winter, and overestimated in summer. But it should be noted that the presence of such a function affects the cost of the device. A meter with a temperature compensator is distinguished by the letter “T” at the end of the marking and is more expensive.
Selection and purchase procedure
Before you buy a device, invite a gas organization employee to your home, who will inspect the structure of the gas supply system, calculate the required throughput and tell you what characteristics it is worth purchasing a meter with.
Do not take risks and do not buy a device without prior approval! Otherwise, there is a chance that it will not fit, they will refuse to install it and you will have to look for a new one.
You should only buy equipment from reliable stores that sell quality products and provide a guarantee. Do not buy products from markets or dubious retail outlets. There is no certainty that you will not be sold a fake.
You can also purchase a meter via the Internet - on the manufacturer’s website or trading platforms. In this case, the goods will be sent to you by mail, courier, or transferred to a specialized delivery point.
Each device must have a passport, which indicates the date of first verification.
Center distance
Why is it important to consider the center distance?
Another parameter that should be taken into account when choosing the right gas meter is the center-to-center distance of the fittings
. This parameter is of great importance when replacing the meter. If the center distance is incorrectly determined and the wrong meter is selected, its installation will be impossible. In this case, adapters are not provided, and moving pipes is a very technically complex process.
The required value can be determined simply by measuring the distance between the centers of the connecting fittings with a ruler. You can also look at the value in the passport for the old meter. Today gas meters are produced with a distance of 110, 200 and 250 mm
.
For installation in an apartment on a standard gas pipeline, devices with an indicator of 110 mm
.
In this case, you can safely take the device and not be afraid to make a mistake. Gas meters with a distance of 130 mm
and
250 mm
are used less frequently. Such solutions are intended for gas pipelines with high gas flow. They are usually used in private homes.
Elster BK-G4T
The best solution for private houses
The device has optimal characteristics for installation in private homes. This includes the volume of consumption, temperature conditions of use, and installation possibilities.
Relevance of accounting for blue fuel consumption
Voluntary or mandatory installation of a gas meter is determined by the volume of fuel consumed. In a situation where it is used exclusively for cooking, and the only gas equipment available is a stove, it is possible to install a meter based on goodwill.
In a situation where the home also contains boiler equipment with a hot water heater, the presence of a gas meter is mandatory.
The payment standards for gas fuel in housing that is not equipped with metering devices are twelve and a half cubic meters per person if there is only a stove and twenty-four and a half cubic meters if there is a boiler or water heater.
Options for household gas meters
Additional equipment
It will increase the measurement accuracy and add ease of use.
The presence of some options allows you to make measurements more accurate and the gas meter itself more efficient. Thermal compensator
, which was already mentioned above, avoids distortion of measurements associated with exposure to different ambient temperatures. However, according to experts, its presence is not necessary for meters in the apartment.
A dust filter would be a great addition.
. It is designed to clean the gas stream from mechanical particles. This reduces wear on the measuring device and increases the accuracy of readings.
Reverse lock
counting mechanism. It does not allow the counting mechanism to be rotated in the opposite direction. The function ensures accurate measurements; its presence is also welcomed by representatives of gas supply organizations.
Pulse output
for remote readings. Such meters are used in our own automated system for integrated accounting of resource consumption “Smart Home”. All information on manipulations with the device (including turning off the power for volatile models) is entered into the archive of the electronic unit, which can only be read using special equipment.
Verification and replacement period
Accuracy testing frequency and service life
The first thing I would like to draw your attention to is that the calibration interval begins from the date of manufacture, and not from the moment of purchase or installation of the device. Therefore, we advise you to pay attention to the release date
specific model.
The service life of gas meters is on average 20-25 years
. But the value declared by the manufacturer is calculated for ideal operating conditions, but in practice this period is shorter. The need for replacement is determined by a specialist at the time of verification.
Check intervals
The accuracy of instruments is determined by its type. Thus, a membrane device is checked once every 8-15 years (more accurate information is available in the accompanying documents). The rotary meter needs verification most often - the procedure is performed every 2-5 years. The electronic device is serviced once every 10-12 years.
In this connection, we advise you to choose the one that was manufactured later from two identical models. You should also give preference to membrane or electronic gas meters; they cause the least hassle in maintenance.
The best manufacturers
Which brand of meter to choose
Despite the fact that now the use of a gas meter is not mandatory, there are many manufacturers offering their products on the market. As for the cost, the spread is very wide: you can buy a gas meter at a price from 1.5 to 50 thousand rubles. Experts and gas supply organizations identify five manufacturers whose metering devices are worthy of attention.
LLC "Neptune-Ural"
produces gas meters under the Betar brand. Gas meters are easy to install, do not require location and are equipped with a tee, allowing you to use gas while the device is being repaired or calibrated.
"Gazdevice"
has been producing diaphragm and ultrasonic gas meters since 1998. The devices are widely available in stores and are popular due to their affordable cost and long service life.
Elektropribor LLC
specializes in membrane gas meters. The devices meet all the requirements of Russian and European standards. Gas meters are reliable, durable and affordable.
Turbulentnost-Don LLC
produces meters known under the Grand brand. Jet-type devices have no moving parts, so they make virtually no noise. They are expensive.
"ELSTER Gaselectronics"
– an international group of companies. It includes the German company Kromschroder, which produced the first gas meter. Elster meters are reliable, energy-independent devices of high quality and with a long service life.
Why do you need a thermal corrector?
It is no secret that when the temperature decreases, gas contracts, and when it increases, it expands; accordingly, in the summer, in the heat, more gas will pass through the meter, and less in winter. Despite the fact that the kettle will boil at the same speed, the counter without thermal correction will show different volume values. It is in order to compensate for losses at high temperatures that gas suppliers use coefficients. Let's try to find out what a thermal corrector is and why is it needed?
And so the thermal corrector, or as experts call this procedure, brings the measured volume to standard conditions.
What's happening? Let’s say it’s summer and it’s +30 outside, the gas enters the pipeline warm, which means expanded. The kettle on the stove will boil, but the meter will calculate the gas consumption more than if the temperature in the apartment and outside were +20 degrees. The task of the thermal corrector, or bringing it to standard conditions, is precisely to recalculate the meter readings based on standard temperature values of + 20 degrees. With this approach, both in winter and in summer, despite the different gas temperatures, accounting will be carried out according to honest consumption of the energy resource, or useful work. And not by changing volume.
Modern devices have a thermal corrector; in addition, now almost all gas suppliers require the use of meters with thermal correction; the main thing worth paying attention to is that temperature measurement occurs directly in the gas flow, and is not theoretically calculated. If there is a temperature sensor, then the reduction to normal conditions will be as accurate as possible, and you will not have to think about the coefficients and what you pay for air.
Top 5. Turbulence-DON Grand-1.6
Rating (2021): 3.62
The Grand-1.6 gas meter is a membrane household measuring device that is distinguished by its simplicity, quality and affordable cost. Many users appreciated not only the accuracy of measurements and ease of installation, but also the design of the gas meter. It is compact, modern and comes in three colors. In accordance with technical information, the device is verified once every 12 years, but in practice this is not the case. The meter is volatile and equipped with a battery, the latter runs out on average in 5 years. After its replacement (like any other intervention), an extraordinary verification is required.
Characteristics:
1990 rub. / Russia / Size G-1.6, service life 24 years
Types of apartment appliances based on operating principle
Gas meters come in several types, with different operating principles. Now we are interested in selecting a gas meter for an apartment, so we will only talk about meters for residential premises.
Membrane (diaphragm)
This is a type of meter for measuring natural and other non-aggressive low pressure gases. Such devices can be manufactured with threaded or flanged connections. The operating principle of the counter is as follows. There are several reservoirs inside the housing; when one of them is filled with gas, the diaphragm begins to shift, and as soon as the reservoir is filled, the mechanism switches and the gas flows into the next chamber.
This process occurs cyclically, and the measuring device counts the number of strokes of the diaphragm. Based on the number of time cycles it takes for the gas to leave the chamber and the volume of the chambers, the measuring device makes calculations and determines the amount of gas consumed.
Such gas meters should be installed in an apartment when gas consumption is high.
Membrane meters are reliable, their service life is twenty years. verification must be done every ten years. The disadvantages of such meters include the fact that they are bulky and noisy. In addition, magnetic fields can affect the measurement accuracy.
Rotary (rotary)
Rotary meters, also called rotary or screw meters, boast a large throughput and at the same time a relatively small size. They make virtually no noise.
Such meters are widely used in enterprises and utilities. Small models are used in houses and apartments. They can only be mounted on a vertical pipe with gas supply from top to bottom.
The design of a rotary counter is as follows. Inside the housing there is a chamber in which there are two rotors, tightly fitted to each other. The gas that passes through the device rotates the rotors.
When choosing a rotary meter, it is especially important to choose a well-built device. The case must be sealed and not allow gas to pass through; the glass of the dial is especially vulnerable. The rotors must be tightly fitted to each other and move easily so that friction is minimal. And also the rotors must be carefully balanced. All this affects the durability of the device.
Rotary meters are reliable and can pass a large volume of gas without making much noise. They are insensitive to short-term overloads and do not require electricity or batteries.
The disadvantages include the fact that if the dial glass cracks, a gas leak will occur. And also, due to poor quality assembly, they can wear out quickly. Therefore, their verification interval is short, it is usually five years. The standard service life is ten years.
Jet
These utility gas meters are used in apartments with low gas consumption. The principle of operation of such a meter is based on the fact that the frequency of oscillation of a gas stream passing through the generator element is measured. Passing through the nozzle, the gas flow causes the piezoelectric element to oscillate and generate electrical impulses, which are converted into a frequency, on the basis of which the device calculates the gas flow, displaying information on the LCD display.
The inkjet meter contains no moving parts, so it is very durable. The device is powered by an installed lithium battery with a nominal service life of 10 years (in fact, sometimes much less). The meter is easy to install thanks to threaded connections.
In addition, it can be mounted on both vertical and horizontal gas pipes. It is accurate, silent and compact. Verification occurs once every 12 years. Certain meter models allow you to transmit data on gas consumption remotely. You can also choose a model with a thermal corrector for installation outdoors. But it is worth considering that the body of such devices is fragile and requires protection if the meter is installed outdoors.
For such meters there is a special marking in the name of the device model to simplify the selection of the meter, but unlike membrane meters, a number is used here that corresponds not to the nominal, but to the maximum throughput.
Electronic or mechanical
The operation of the electronic meter is based on pulses, which are counted by the device, after which data on gas consumption is displayed on the LCD screen. Such meters are accurate, compact, silent, and remote transmission of readings is possible. But they are quite expensive.
The mechanical counter takes into account the torque transmitted to the gears. As a result, rollers with numbers printed on them on the scoreboard rotate. The mechanical meter is characterized by low cost, simple design and reliability. It does not require power supply or battery replacement. But he is large and noisy.
Each type of meter has its own place of use; it is better to install an electronic meter in an apartment, since it is silent and takes up little space. It’s better to take the mechanical one into a technical room or outside.
Top 4. Elehant SGB-1.8
Rating (2021): 3.85
A small meter that is perfect for use in an apartment where only a stove is connected to the gas pipeline. The device is compact, inkjet type, easy to install, compact and practically silent. The Elehant SGB-1.8 gas meter is equipped with a system for remote readings via Bluetooth at a range of up to 10 meters, but does not have a pulse output, that is, it cannot be connected to automated resource accounting systems. All data is displayed on an electronic display. The average service life of a measuring device is 12 years, the calibration interval is the same. Users note the convenience, accuracy and ease of installation.
Characteristics:
1750 rub. / Russia / Standard size G-1.8, service life 12 years
What do gas workers think about metering devices?
For gas meters, initial verification is provided before use and periodic verification after a certain period of operation. Manufacturers guarantee correct readings of the device for the duration of the calibration interval, which for different models ranges from eight to twelve years.
Gas meters are checked by specialized gas services, and homeowners pay for this work.
Based on the results of the study, a document is issued on the suitability of the device for further use. Responsibility for meeting the control deadlines lies entirely with the consumer.
If the gas service detects a violation of the verification period, you will have to pay for the use of gas fuel for six months at the usual rate. In the event that the service life of the device has expired or an inspection has revealed that it is not suitable for further use, the cost of replacing it is paid by the consumer.
Checking the gas meter in a special laboratory
Top 3. Elster BK-G4T
Rating (2021): 3.97
The Elster BK-G4T meter will be an excellent solution for use in a private home. The device is equipped with a temperature compensator, which will allow you to keep records accurately, regardless of the ambient temperature. However, it should be noted that outdoor installation in regions with harsh climates is not provided; the minimum operating temperature is only -25 degrees. The device is reliable and durable, its service life is 24 years, and verification should be carried out once every 10 years. Users in their reviews note that the meter meets all the stated characteristics and they were satisfied with the purchase.
Characteristics:
5580 rub. / Russia / Size G-4, service life 24 years
Top 2. Betar SGBM-1.6
Rating (2021): 4.12
Betar SGBM-1.6 is one of the most popular meters for domestic use, provided there is only one flow point, usually a gas stove. The gas meter is intended for installation exclusively indoors; it can serve properly for up to 12 years; verification is also recommended after 12 years from the previous date. According to user reviews, the meter works well, there are no failures, and they did not find any shortcomings. The meter is volatile, the battery lasts for the entire period of use, with rare exceptions. Overall, this is one of the best measuring instruments, which is recommended by both professionals and ordinary people.
Characteristics:
1650 rub. / Russia / Standard size G-1.6, service life 12 years
