10 best electricity meters. How to choose the right one and which one is better to install an electric meter in an apartment

Electricity meters play an important role in everyday life and production. Simple devices are designed to measure electricity consumption, so they must have high accuracy, durability and the ability to operate at different temperature conditions. The review of the best electricity meters from our editors presents 12 models that in 2022 became top-end in quality and at an affordable price.

This rating includes single-phase and three-phase devices of various price categories, differing in functions and capabilities. When compiling the review, our experts took into account individual characteristics, as well as feedback from customers. Once you get to know the best models on the market, it will become much easier to decide which counter to choose.

Which company's electricity meter is better to buy?

The variety of electricity metering devices in stores amazes the buyer.
Without special knowledge, it is difficult to make the right choice. In addition to the wide variety of device types, you also need to have an idea of the manufacturing companies that produce electricity meters. The best electricity meters today are produced by four companies. Among their products you can find both single-tariff and multi-tariff devices:

Energomera is the leader in the Russian market of electricity metering devices. The company has been producing 3,000,000 devices annually for 25 years, which are subsequently sold in Russia and the CIS countries. The manufacturer owns 4 modern factories and 1 corporate institute of electrical instrument making. The company tirelessly monitors the quality of the product; the return rate for electricity meters is kept to a minimum.
Incotex is Russia's largest developer and manufacturer of unique radio-electronic products. The company produces 800 types of various electrical devices sold on world markets. The manufacturer stands out by introducing the most modern technologies into production, which makes the products safe and in demand in the eyes of thousands of customers.
Taypit is a company founded in 1991 and for two decades has been one of the leaders in the markets of electrical installation and electrical equipment. The organization is the exclusive distributor of a number of products, and also produces its own unique devices that meet the needs of households.
ABB is an international company that has developed its activities in the field of electrical networks, robotics, industrial automation and electric drives. To date, the manufacturer has produced 70 million devices, which were sold in 100 countries around the world. The company not only produces, but also services equipment, which is also a definite advantage for the ordinary buyer.

All of the above companies are independent developers and manufacturers of household electricity meters that meet global and Russian safety standards.

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Rating of the best electricity meters, top 10 most popular

Which counter is better

INCOTEX Mercury 201.5 (which meter is better)

(from 625 rubles)

INCOTEX Mercury 201.5

It is one of the most popular models on the Russian market of electric meters. This electric meter will be sold “on every corner”: in a hardware store, at the market or in a small department. The price is ideal for an apartment device. The device consists of plastic, but it is not particularly durable. That is why the manufacturer warns that it is intended for indoor use and where there is protection from environmental influences. That is, in cabinets and panels. Energy is measured digitally. The composition does not contain magnetically sensitive elements. Thus, any intentional or accidental impact on the devices with a magnetic field will not damage or break the metering device. The device is compact, mounted on a DIN rail - it is a cheap steel die, which, depending on the size, costs 15-50 rubles in a construction site.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A,
maximum current 60 A,
minimum frequency 50 Hz, maximum frequency 51 Hz,
included in the state register, two-wire connection, direct.

Pros: easy to find

Cons: difficult to install

Energy meter CE 101 R5.1 145 M6 (which meter is better)

Energy meter CE 101 R5.1 145 M6

Another very common domestic device. Quite popular among developers due to its low price. You can also often find it in stores. With a small-sized case, there are no installation features: it is important that there is a flat wall and a DIN rail. The device is certified and entered into the state register. In general, if you have a simple single-phase tariff, you can safely purchase this type of meter. It is important to note that the company has two models under this name. The first one is distinguished by a mechanical screen: cells with numbers. The second one has a liquid crystal display - like an electronic watch. This one costs more. And they differ only in appearance. There is a belief that a digital screen protects from electromagnetic fields. In fact, even with a conventional display, the device is protected according to all standards. We also note a good warranty on the devices - seven years.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A, maximum current 60 A,
minimum frequency 47.5 Hz, maximum frequency 52.5 Hz,
included in the state register, two-wire connection, direct.

Pros: not noisy

Cons: the warranty is valid if you keep the box

Typeit NEVA MT 124 AS OP (which counter is better)

Typeit NEVA MT 124 AS OP

This is not only a household electricity meter. This meter can also be installed at an industrial or social facility. There are regulatory documents for this. Has intelligence in the ability to calculate energy consumption at different times of the day, when connecting to the appropriate tariff. The device is neat and not bulky. The readings are clearly visible on the LCD display. In case of power outages, you will need a CR2450 battery - “washer”. However, it can be easily replaced without opening the case. The capacitor is installed by the manufacturer. The device's memory stores daily values and readings for 128 days. There is also an electronic seal available. It is a sensor that records unauthorized opening in the device memory. According to the law, a regular seal will have to be placed on the device in any case. The display can display energy consumption at the end of the month according to tariffs. Similar figures for the previous 16 months are stored in memory.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A,
maximum current 60 A, minimum frequency 47.5 Hz, maximum frequency 52.5 Hz,
included in the state register, two-wire connection, direct.

Pros: compact

Cons: need to keep an eye on the battery

INCOTEX Mercury 200.02 (which counter is better)

INCOTEX Mercury 200.02

An electric meter with the possibility of two-tariff measurement of indicators has a very reasonable price compared to others. It can easily be included in the list of the best electricity meters. You can even ask the electric company to switch you to a split charging plan. In this case, at night the cost of a kilowatt will cost nothing, but during the day the price goes higher. It is convenient when people wash or cook with such a tariff only in the evening. In addition, this counter can immediately transmit data to ASKUE. This concept stands for an automated system for collecting evidence. In Russia, such a thing exists only in modern new buildings, in which they decided to take care of energy efficiency. For others, the bells and whistles will be useless. The structure includes a display on which you can display some data, in particular such as information on expenses for the past month.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A, maximum current 60 A,
minimum frequency 49 Hz, maximum frequency 51 Hz,
included in the state register, two-wire connection, direct.

Pros: functionality

Cons: there are complaints about reliability

TDM ELECTRIC MARS-1.0-11-SH-M SQ1105-0008 (which meter is better)

TDM ELECTRIC MARS-1.0-11-SH-M SQ1105-0008
Unlike previous electricity meters of 2022, this model has a more bulky, although nice, appearance. It looks neat, streamlined, the body is made of good light plastic, plus the use of non-flammable materials. So, in appearance he is quite. So that the device meets the technical aesthetic requirements. Suitable not only for home, it can even be installed in public places and industrial enterprises. The company uses the polymer from which the column with terminals is made - polybutylene terephthalate. What makes this material special? The main thing is greater confidence in the reliability of the device’s contacts. Note that a sealing rubber is installed in the case; it provides protection according to the IP51 . This is good protection against dust, and mediocre protection against water - literally from drops.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0, DIN rail mounting, rated current 5 A, maximum current 60 A, maximum frequency 50 Hz, included in the state register, two-wire connection, direct

Pros: appearance and quality of materials

Cons: Available only in a couple of stores

Typeit NEVA 103 1S0 230V (which meter is better)

Typeit NEVA 103 1S0 230V

Another budget device from a St. Petersburg company that specializes in the production of electric meters. This is the simplest device possible. It's even assembled in such a way that it can't be taken apart. This is good from a device security point of view. This device is mostly suitable for home use: in an apartment, cottage or garage. But the specifications indicate that it can also be used to account for consumption in public buildings. In addition to the mechanical display, there is an LED that serves as an indicator of proper operation and flickers in proportion to the amount of energy consumed. Just in case, let’s clarify that it blinks quite often. Therefore, if the device is located somewhere in an open area, and you are annoyed by various flashes, even small ones, then you will have to tape it up or hide the counter in a closet.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A, maximum current 60 A,
minimum frequency 47.5 Hz, maximum frequency 52.5 Hz, included in the state register,
two-wire connection, direct.

Pros: price/quality

Cons: flickering LED

EKF SKAT 301M/1 R PROxima (which meter is better)

EKF SKAT 301M/1 R PROxima

The most advanced and reliable electricity meter on the Russian market. It has good quality that is worth good money. Equipped with protection against increased input voltages and impulse noise. However, if everything is fine with the wiring in the house, then the loads that the device is capable of accepting are unlikely to be needed in everyday life. The declared service life is at least 30 years. Standard period, which is also indicated by other manufacturers. Only the verification interval of the device is indicated in the passport. And since the verification procedure is not cheap, it will be cheaper to buy a new device. The factory warranty is only five years. Despite the fact that the model is innovative, the dimensions and locations of the seats coincide with the location of the mounts on the old meters. This means that there should be no problems with installation. A DIN rail or mounting platform will help - the price is about 150 rubles.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A, maximum current 60 A,
maximum frequency 50 Hz,
included in the state register,
two-wire connection, direct.

Pros: leading quality indicators among analogues

Cons: high price

Energy meter CE 101 S6 145 M6 (which meter is better)

Energy meter CE 101 S6 145 M6

Its analogue was mentioned above. It takes its rightful place in the ranking of the best electricity meters. Honestly speaking, compared to other electricity meters from this company, there is not much difference. Unless, as of 2022, this device is actually newer. The case uses more durable plastic, there is contact protection so that the connected wires do not stick out. The device is one-tariff, without any tricks. The reading device is mechanical, and behind frosted plastic glass. There is a light inside it that lights up if everything is normal with the device. At the same time, it does not consume a lot of electricity. The device is better than a cheaper analogue from the same line, for which we must say “thank you” to the new case. Possesses protection from environmental influences. The class of protection against dust and moisture is not specified. If you use it carefully at home, you don’t have to hide the case anywhere; everything will be fine.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A, maximum current 60 A,
minimum frequency 47.5 Hz, maximum frequency 52.5 Hz,
included in the state register,
two-wire connection, direct

Pros: reliable

Cons: distinctly noisy, sometimes clicking

INCOTEX Mercury 201.7 (which counter is better)

INCOTEX Mercury 201.7

Also an inexpensive device for 2022. The body is made of budget plastic. Materials similar to the cheap Chinese toys sold in markets in the recent past. Although, this does not affect the accounting characteristics in any way. The device regularly keeps a chronology of electricity consumption. Only during installation, you need to be extremely careful when handling the case so as not to accidentally split the case with a tool during installation. It is better to place this electric meter behind a protective cabinet, it is more reliable. The device is certified and included in the state register for use in homes. The device is resistant to magnetic fields. Thanks to the anti-reverse mechanism, the numbers do not rotate in the opposite direction. The housing cannot be disassembled and reassembled independently. An attempt to open it will destroy it and restore its integrity, and it will also not be possible to put a seal.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A, maximum current 60 A,
minimum frequency 50 Hz, maximum frequency 51 Hz,
included in the state register,
two-wire connection, direct.

Pros : simple design

Cons : fragile

Typeit NEVA 101 1S0 230V (which meter is better)

Typeit NEVA 101 1S0 230V

The outside of the device is made of a strong plastic case. It has installation flexibility compared to other models of the best electric meters of 2022. That is, it can be screwed with three screws and can be placed on a DIN rail model TN35. The main part of the markings is applied not with paint, but with laser engraving, which means it will last better and longer. Easy connection. In addition, the law allows you to install the device yourself if you do not want to involve a specialist. But only network specialists can connect and seal it. Good equipment: the terminal block screws do not fall out - they remain in their sockets when fully unscrewed. According to the manufacturer, the connection securely fixes the wires. The presence of a flickering indicator produces light pulses based on the amount of energy consumed.

Characteristics

Electromechanical, accuracy class 1.0,
DIN rail mounting,
rated current 5 A, maximum current 60 A,
minimum frequency 47.5 Hz, maximum frequency 52.5 Hz,
included in the state register,
direct connection

Cons: Makes a loud clicking sound when turning the wheel

Pros: two installation options

Specifications

Induction mechanical devices have existed for a long time, created a “monopoly” and held the lead for a long time. More recently, other types of flow meters have appeared, and users have the opportunity to choose the most suitable option. The disk drive was mainly installed in an apartment (house) or on a site. The internal structure of a mechanical counter is simple and straightforward: two magnetic coils, a counting mechanism. The device has a long service life: according to the passport, a fifteen-year period is specified; in practice, flow meters function adequately twice as long. The disadvantage of the device is its low accuracy. The best representatives of this type of meters are considered to be Energomera CE 101-S6, Neva 103.

Electronic electricity meters measure the resource directly. They do not have moving measuring parts; the results are displayed on a display. The meter has the ability to archive data or transmit information remotely. New devices calculate resource consumption at several rates with high accuracy and minimal errors. The devices have the ability to capture minimal loads, which is absolutely not possible with the previous type of flow meters.

Multi-tariff meters, according to manufacturers, are capable of functioning efficiently for at least ten to fifteen years.

But it is not yet possible to verify this, since metering devices appeared quite recently. The recognized leader among electronic meters is Mercury 201.8, Mercury 200.02, Energomera CE 102 S7. Among meters, the three-tariff meter is chosen by a large number of users, as it allows them to pay less without reducing the amount of energy consumed.

A single-phase meter has a rated voltage of 220 V, three-phase devices - 380 V. Single-phase metering devices are installed in private apartments, since household electrical networks and appliances are designed for 220 Volts. Such a device is enough for the user, especially since energy supervision will most likely refuse to install a three-phase device as unnecessary. A three-phase meter is installed in private homes. Residents of such dwellings require a larger amount of powerful equipment: electric boilers, water heaters, and the like. Power is supplied from a three-phase network with a voltage of 380 Volts. The best three-phase metering devices are called Cascade Mercury AT-01, TsE-6803, Mercury 230, 231.

Electricity meter for a private home

produces equipment "Mercury™" - this is a well-known brand, with a basic accuracy class of 2.0. The products are of high quality, reliability and affordable price.

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Single-tariff electronic meter Mercury series 201 and 202

The cheapest model 201.5 costs less than 1000 rubles. Its maximum current is up to 60/80A, and the model is also perfect for city apartments. The device has a 6-year warranty, the service life promised by the manufacturer is up to 30 years. In addition, the verification interval is 16 years. And this is a very important indicator. By installing a single-tariff Mercury meter, you will save yourself from headaches in terms of verification and claims by energy sales for a decade and a half.

Mercury counter

Episode 201 Counter Mercury

Mercury counter

Three-phase meter Mercury for a private home

Three-phase meter Mercury for a private home

It has an accuracy class of 1.0 and a verification interval of 10 years. To take into account active energy, single and multi-tariff meters of the 230 and 231 series are suitable. To take into account the active, reactive and total load, devices of the 230, 234, 236 series and the AR series are useful.

Electric meters Energomera

Produced at electrical plants of the same name. The company has been operating for more than 20 years. Its products have passed the reliability test “excellent”. Basic accuracy class 1.0, calibration interval 16 years, warranty 5 years and service life up to 30 years.

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They keep track of active electricity at a maximum current of 60/100A. Designed for 220 thousand operating hours. The design includes a measuring shunt, which ensures high accuracy and resistance of the device to electromagnetic interference. Meters of the CE 101 are available in different housing options: for mounting on a DIN rail, and on a plane for bolts.

Installation

The electric meter must be installed by qualified specialists. Working with electricity is complex and unsafe, and it is important to do everything correctly. An electrician from the energy supply company has the right to unseal and seal the meter.

Mercury 230

There is no prohibition to involve an electrician from a private company in the process, but the employee must have permits for such activities. The specialist installing the device must have a good understanding of the issue. Installing a single-phase multi-tariff meter will cost the user more than installing a single-tariff device.

There are certain rules regarding whether the homeowner must maintain and replace the meter.

Provided that the flow meter is installed in a public place, it is public property. In this case, expiration dates and timely replacement are controlled by authorized services.
Provided that the meter is located in an apartment, house, etc., the owner is responsible for the condition and timely replacement.

The contract may contain other conditions; it is necessary to study the document. A standard agreement, an act on the division of balance sheet assets are the main documents that should be in the hands of the owner.

To replace the meter and install a new flow meter, you need to prepare the following documentation:

submit an application to the energy company;
draw up an act;
carry out the procedure for verifying the old metering device;
seal the installed electric meter.

Cascade Mercury AT-01

In addition to the documents mentioned, you need to prepare a standard package of papers:

a document confirming ownership where the flow meter is required to be installed;
power of attorney, if the application is submitted by the owner’s assistant;
photocopy of passport.

To install the flow meter correctly, you must follow the basic installation rules:

The device must be located in a place of free and unobstructed access. Maintenance or verification should be carried out without difficulty.
The line must be de-energized for the entire period of installation of the device. This is pre-agreed with company representatives.
The height of the meter from the floor level is from eighty to one hundred and seventy centimeters.
The device must be grounded.
All machines must be connected to a meter.
If the integrity of the seal is damaged, it is important to immediately call a specialist to reseal it.
After installing the flow meter, a test run is performed.

Installing a meter on the street raises many questions. There are no documents regulating the location of the device.

The user independently decides where to place the equipment.

Representatives of the energy sales company insist on street placement of the meter, but the user should be aware of the following facts:

Installing the device outside significantly reduces the service life of the flow meter. Unfavorable environmental conditions negatively affect the condition of the device; at minimum ambient temperatures, readings are often incorrect.
Placing the device outdoors implies the possibility of uncontrolled access to the device by third parties.
To prevent theft or damage to the meter, they are often installed at a height of three meters. The user has to take readings using a ladder.

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There are a number of requirements for installing an electric meter:

The flow meter is installed in electrical cabinets, on rigid panels.
The recommended installation height of the device is from eighty to one hundred and seventy centimeters.
When the meter is located in places with an increased likelihood of damage, clogging or access by third parties, the meter is installed in a lockable structure.
For ease of maintenance and readings, the flow meter should be located in a place convenient for access.
It is important to choose the correct diameter of the input cable.
The input cable cannot consist of elements fastened together.

In private households, it is possible to lay electrical wiring from the meter in the ground, at a height in the air.

Which meter is the best for a house or apartment? Despite the great popularity of electronic metering devices, mechanical electricity meters remain in demand. The absence of the need for expensive maintenance, high reliability and long service life speak in their favor. In European countries, interest in familiar, unpretentious electromechanical flow meters is increasingly being revived.

Which device to choose needs to be decided based on a lot of factors. Choosing the best metering equipment requires careful consideration.

The procedure for installing and connecting an electric meter

Installing an electric meter in a private home is not particularly difficult. First of all, you will need to decide on the planned load power in a private household and choose an electricity supplier. If in the first case there is still a choice - the rules allow the use of single-phase and three-phase circuits for connecting an electric meter in a private house, then in the second case it will be possible to connect only to the nearest power line.

The supply of electricity to a private house is carried out in several stages:

A written application to the nearest power grid office with an application for connection to an existing line and a preliminary assessment of power consumption indicating the type of meter;
Based on the application, the applicant is issued a standard contract and technical conditions for the arrangement of the supply line and equipment of the input circuit with an electric meter;
An agreement is concluded with the contractor and the project is carried out, followed by the installation of a panel with an electric meter to record the consumption specifically for a specific private household;
Upon completion of the work, an inspector arrives, whose responsibilities include checking whether the connection diagram of a single-phase electric meter in a private house complies with the technical conditions, seals the installation and registers the connection point.

You can do the single-phase meter installation and connection circuit yourself; you just need to purchase high-quality equipment and carefully carry out the installation according to the rules of the Electrical Installation Code. The installation of a three-phase line input and an electric meter will need to be entrusted to a company that has permission to work with the appropriate equipment. The license and contract with the company will become one of the arguments in a dispute with the selection committee if it suddenly turns out that, from their point of view, the equipment and meter were not installed according to the rules.

Important! Before recklessly signing an agreement, it would be correct to show the documents to a specialist who knows in detail how to connect an electric meter in a private house.

Often, energy companies abuse the trust of private home owners and insist on installing an electric meter in a private home on the street or on the facade of a building. There are many by-laws that require energy network companies to deal with unauthorized connections, so energy workers slightly exceed their authority by requiring the installation of a meter on a pole or on the facade of a private house.

The most important thing is that when choosing which electric meter is best to install in a private house, do not purchase any pieces of equipment from officials. Buy the cabinet and electric meter required for installation based on the recommendations of friends or an acquaintance. Everything that energy network workers sell costs almost twice as much, has repair cases and, according to reviews from private home owners, has a huge measurement error.

None of the energy network office workers have the right to force their equipment and method of installing the electric meter on you.

What the installation and operation rules say

Of course, you can use the provisions of the installation rules to defend your interests, but for this you need to have time, health and patience in order to force the energy monopolists through the court to take into account your reasonable demands when installing an electric meter.

The installation rules require the applicant to fulfill only a few points:

To account for electricity, only a certified and verified electricity meter can be used;
The device must be operated at temperatures above 0°C, in conditions without condensation, the meter must not overheat or be exposed to direct sunlight;
The installation height of the electric meter above a horizontal surface is 0.8-1.7 m;
The installation method must provide normal access for sealing and readings by representatives of the energy company;
The cabinet, meter and equipment elements must be grounded.

The requirement to install a cabinet with a meter on a pole is clearly illegal, so it makes sense to try to defend your case, but the litigation will probably drag on for several months.

For your information! By law, the company does not have the right to refuse you a connection to the network if all the rules for installing an electric meter have been met.

Often, owners of private houses order an independent examination of the work performed and the installation of an electric meter in order to achieve connection through the court or higher authorities.

Energomera CE 101 R5.1 145 M6

If you need a good electricity meter for your apartment, we advise you to take a closer look at the Energomera CE 101 device. The device can be called successful in terms of the combination of price and quality, thanks to which it is incredibly popular among owners of both apartments and private houses. The model works stably, preventing loss of readings even during light outages. This is especially true if you choose a device for a summer house or garage. The Energomera electric meter is not afraid of low temperatures, which expands the possibilities for choosing where to install it. The device is secured using three screws. According to the seller's warranty, the device will serve you for about 30 years.

Advantages

Long warranty;
Low price;
Reliable design;
Large numbers;
Modest dimensions.

Flaws

Lack of digital metering board;
Poor mounting method.

This is the most inexpensive electric meter on our list. By purchasing it, you will receive a solid, high-quality device with all the basic functionality. You don't have to understand the variety of options and settings.

Mercury 202.5 5-60A/220V class 1.0

The single-tariff meter Mercury 202.5 rightfully takes its place in this rating; a modern device with a classic design meets all customer requirements. Judging by the reviews, the device can operate at low temperatures and high humidity (-45/90%). The device has a technological reserve for the accuracy class, which guarantees the accuracy of the readings. The technology of the device includes a shunt for measuring current, and the pulse output allows the meter to be used both autonomously and in an ASKUE system.

The manufacturer guarantees continuous operation of the device for 30 years. It is also worth noting the modest overall dimensions and low weight. For such a low cost, you will receive a properly working electric meter, which can be installed either on the landing or in an unheated cellar.

Advantages

Low cost;
Mechanical indication;
High accuracy of readings;
The device can be installed independently;
Durability.

Flaws

Sometimes there are factory defects.

Easy to use, the Mercury 202.5 counter will appeal to those who are looking for a modern device that performs its direct functions. Of course, the device does not support many options, but it is ideal for installation in a country house or garage.

Taypit Neva 103/5 1s0

Speaking about good electric meters, one cannot fail to mention the Typepit Neva 103/5 device. The device has a certificate of conformity, so it will serve you faithfully for the entire period stated by the manufacturer. The meter is equipped with a simple 7-digit reading device; it can be installed in any room due to its large operating temperature range from -40 to +60 C.

Separately, it is worth mentioning the attachment of this electric meter to the surface. Includes reverse stops, LED indicator, shunt and screw terminals. When installing the device, convenient DIN rails are used. Installing the device will take a couple of minutes, and strong latches will ensure secure attachment to the wall.

Advantages

Sturdy mounting latch;
Low cost;
Long service life;
Non-separable body;
Reliable design;
Accurate readings;
Small dimensions, light weight.

Flaws

Inconsistency of display, which can be misleading.

The Taypit Neva 103/5 electric meter has good reviews among consumers and experts. If you do not want to spend a lot of money, and at the same time want to get a high-quality device, it is better to choose this one.

Which electricity meter is better to install in an apartment: classification of devices

When looking for where to buy an electricity meter, it is important not to forget that the selection and purchase of a device must be made taking into account all factors. The device cannot be returned or exchanged if there are reasons that prevent its installation, since the registration of the sale is accompanied by making the appropriate notes in the passport. This document contains a serial number, as well as a stamp affixed by the state verifier.

Electric energy meter

Replacing an old electricity meter with a new device is carried out in the following cases:

non-compliance of the device with the requirements put forward by the energy company;
device failure;
moving into a new living space.

Note! There is only one reason for returning an electric energy meter - the presence of a manufacturing defect.

Devices for calculating electrical energy are classified according to the following criteria:

Type of design (mechanical type or induction and electronic).
Number of phases (single- and three-phase).
Type of measured energy (devices for measuring reactive, active energy, as well as universal ones).
Tariffs (one-, two- and multi-tariff).

In homes with high energy consumption

The device is also used in households. There are more and more electrical devices in our homes, which usually have a fairly high demand for electricity. This type of device is suitable if our electrical installation is adapted to this type of connection and we want to simultaneously use:

electric heating;
induction cooker;
air conditioning system;
Lots of small household appliances and electronics.

For induction cookers, it is recommended to use a three-phase network and, accordingly, a three-phase electricity meter.

Which electricity meter is better for an apartment: prices, advantages and disadvantages of devices

Nowadays, such a problem as replacing electric meters is especially relevant, at whose expense many citizens are concerned about installing the device. From a theoretical point of view, measuring devices are included in the area of responsibility of the electricity supply company, but in reality the solution to the issue falls on the shoulders of residents living in an apartment or in a private house, who are required by law to have a device for metering consumed electricity, as well as to carry out its timely replacement in case of non-compliance with requirements or serious breakdown.

Currently, the market is overflowing with electricity meters of various types

There are more than 400 types of measuring equipment for electricity on the market. When the task is to buy electricity meters for an apartment, the price in this case is of secondary importance.

From the history

With the first experiments on electricity, which they were able to somehow “pacify,” the problem arose of how to measure and calculate this force. The first steps in this direction were taken first by Andre Ampere, who was able to define the concept of current strength, and a little later another scientist, Georg Ohm, derived his famous law defining the relationship between voltage and current.

The first counter, invented by Thomas Edison, was of the galvanic type. It contained a cell with a galvanic liquid in which a conductive plate was placed. It was weighed before being installed in the cell and after current was passed through it for some time. The weight difference was an indicator of the electrical power consumed. Naturally, such a counter was very expensive, inconvenient, and most importantly, useless for the user, because the galvanic cell was sealed. Therefore, a number of engineers and companies worked on a meter that could visually demonstrate electricity consumption with greater accuracy.

This was achieved by the Westinghouse company, whose engineer Oliver Shellenberger created the first induction meter for electrical energy in 1894. Until about 1980, it, improving, increasing accuracy, becoming smaller, still worked on the same induction principle, until it was replaced by a hybrid counter. It “held out”, although it didn’t last long, giving way to electronic counters.

Types of meters

According to the principle of operation, meters are divided into:

Induction counters or, as they are also called, mechanical;
Electronic, in which electricity consumption is calculated using a microcontroller;
Hybrid, combining mechanical and electronic types.

In addition, they are divided into:

DC powered (industrial);
Single-phase - common in urban homes;
Three-phase - for a 380 volt network, used, as a rule, outside the city limits.

But in order to understand the advantages and disadvantages of individual devices and decide which one is better to install in an apartment and which one in a country house, you should carefully familiarize yourself with the principle of their operation.

Advantages and disadvantages of installing an electronic electricity meter

Electronic designs are complex devices whose main task is to convert the incoming signal into a digital data format. The result is reflected by a mechanical dial or screen.

Design advantages:

the error in the readings is very small;
the functionality allows you to keep records within several tariffs;
the percentage of electrical energy theft is very small.

Note! Electronic designs have additional functionality that allows you to buy an electricity meter with a remote control, increased memory or a built-in clock.

Electric meter Mercury 230 with remote control

Disadvantages of electronic devices:

high sensitivity to sudden changes in voltage in the network;
high price;
the designs are not particularly reliable in terms of operation;
repairs are very expensive.

The average price of electricity meters in this category is in the range of 900-3100 rubles. The cost depends on the design features of the device and the availability of additional functions, as well as on the manufacturer. Before deciding to buy electric meters with a remote control, it is worth considering that the cost of devices with remote control is three times more than that of standard devices.

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Prices for meters with remote control (remote control):

Device model	price, rub.
Mercury 231 AM 01 380 5(60)	8500
3F.1T.Mercury-230AM-02 10-100A 380V	8500
3F.1T.CE6803V(M, Sh) 5-60A 230V 4PR.M6(M7)P32 DIN	8500
3F.1T.CE6803V(M, Sh) 10-100A 230V 4PR.M6(M7)P32 DIN	10000
3F.1T.TRIO U 1A4 DV 5-50A 220/380V G07 PL.KOR.LEMZ	10000
3F.1T.MERCURY-230AM-03 5-7.5A 380V 0.5S	12000
TRIO U 1A4 TV LEMZ	15000
Mercury 230 ART 01 WITH REMOTE	25000

Other factors when choosing a meter

A few more factors that you should pay attention to when choosing equipment for metering electricity consumption:

Automatic consumption metering. The option is attractive for those users who do not have the time to take readings on their own.
Country of manufacture. At the moment, Russian devices are considered to be not inferior in quality to foreign ones. The products of these and Energomera are popular among consumers.
Repair prices for a specific model. Most often, repair work costs less than purchasing and installing a new device. However, repair prices can vary quite a bit depending on the model.
Noisy operation. Some models make a buzzing sound when operating. This creates discomfort, so it would be a good idea to ask the seller about the noise level of the device.

Some buyers prefer induction meters since this equipment allows “rewinding” of flow. However, now the time has come for new induction models that have a magnetization indication function. The inspector will notice if the indicator goes off, which will lead to charges of electrical theft.

Number of phases

How to choose an electric meter for an apartment based on this parameter?

Most devices are designed to operate only one phase of the network, which corresponds to 220 Volts. A three-phase 380 Volt network is less commonly used.

But since apartments, for the most part, do not provide for an indicator of 380, three-phase options will not be considered. Only 220 Volts will be considered.

A three-phase meter can operate on a 220 Volt network. But a reverse replacement is simply unacceptable.

Zemel 16EC3gw

Basic model that works well in a four-wire network. This is an excellent three-phase electricity meter for a private home. Its features:

multi-zone active energy measurement;
time zone control;
indication of external magnetic field;
alarm failure.

This model is suitable for use as an electric meter if, for example, two families live in the same house. As you can see, you don’t need to make a lot of effort to choose a three-phase meter for a private home.

Class of devices used depending on current strength

Choosing an electric meter for an apartment is a difficult task. In this matter, you already need to proceed from the power and needs of the wiring that leads to the meter. Some older models are designed for light loads. That is why urgent replacement of these devices is required.

As for single-phase meters, they are most often produced in the range from 5 to 80 amperes. Not a bad spread. If we are talking about three-phase meters, then the upper limit rises to 100 amperes.

If we are talking about an apartment that should have maximum lighting from household appliances, then in this case the range is required in an amplitude from 5 to 50 amperes. Copper wire 6 mm corresponds to these indicators. If the load of electricity consumption in the apartment is higher, then a copper wire with a diameter of 8 mm will be required.

However, if the owners have doubts about whether 50 amperes will be enough, you can consult a good electrician. It all depends on the individual wiring features.

You may want to purchase a higher meter if you think you are using more than 50 amps.

How does a three-phase meter work?

First of all, let's find out the principle of operation and which three-phase meter to choose for a private home.

The operating principle of a three-phase energy meter is almost the same as for models adapted to 1 phase. The device takes measurements for each cable separately, although we can see the total on the screen. These are really three 1-phase meters integrated in one housing. Most often we come across electronic devices that have special integrated circuits. When exposed to current flow, they generate measurable pulses, which we interpret as kWh consumed.

Differentiated consumption accounting

This is the most common reason why meters in apartments are changed. As a rule, the owners of the premises come to the conclusion that it is much more profitable for them to switch to a differentiated payment scheme for the number of kilowatts consumed. This means that the device must also have a similar function.

Meters can be divided into multi-tariff and two-tariff. What is the difference between these devices? Types of electricity meters for apartments. Multi-tariff meters can keep separate records of consumption at several specified tariffs. As for two-tariff ones, there are only two tariffs. This means that calculations of night and day consumption are taken.
Multi-tariff ones can be divided into up to 8 accounting periods, depending on the day of the week or hour of the day.
Multi-tariff ones have much more capabilities, as well as options for calculating energy consumption.

If you choose an electric meter with differentiated metering, then rest assured that they will be somewhat more expensive than conventional models. But how justified is this cost, will you get the effect of such a purchase? The money spent, in theory, should pay for itself.

However, there are no recommendations on this matter. Everything is individual. You, as the owner of the premises, must decide what appliances you use. Which of them consume the maximum amount of energy, how their operating mode changes, and what is needed in order to achieve savings. Do you need a differentiated meter or not?

Based on all the advice received, we can conclude that choice is a subjective and individual concept. Within each family, the question of the possibility of purchasing this or that device is decided on the basis of everyday life, lifestyle, number of household appliances, and so on.

A lot depends on the electrical appliances that you use in your home. Today, many manufacturers of household goods make technical devices that are as energy efficient as possible in terms of energy consumption. But some still remain energy-intensive. If you often use a kettle, dishwasher, washing machine, vacuum cleaner, TV, multicooker or toaster, be sure to first find out how much electrical energy a particular household product consumes. Perhaps you need to change the meter and not switch to a new calculation system, but simply replace a device that consumes too many kilowatts with a more economical one. You will immediately notice the difference.

For example, one young family in Bryansk used an electric kettle for a very long time. Since there were small children in the family, the kettle in the family was heated on average 10-15 times a day. The family was very surprised, since they paid much more for electricity consumption than the residents of a three-room apartment. Although, the family lived in a small two-room apartment. When the head of the family decided to look into this issue in detail and understand what was eating up most of this money, it turned out that the kettle takes the lion's share of the payment for electrics. As soon as the family got rid of the electric appliance and replaced it with a regular gas one, the costs dropped sharply by half.

The same applies to modern huge refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers. Carefully familiarize yourself with your model, not only in technical terms, but also study how effective it is.

Today, each electrical device corresponds to a certain class of electrical energy consumption. So find out what punishes you with a penny the most.

What circumstances may force you to choose a new electric meter?

Electric meters are devices with a very long service life. They can serve faithfully for decades. However, sooner or later there comes a time when this energy meter requires replacement.

Let's make a reservation right away. Unfortunately, the existing legislation does not give a completely clear idea of who should be responsible for the financial side of replacing the electric meter in an apartment in a multi-storey building. There are many interpretations, with various manifestations of legal casuistry. There are many cases proposed for consideration where the obligation to purchase was assigned either to the residents, or to the management company, or to the electricity supplier. Sometimes these issues are regulated by local legislation or are specifically stipulated in contracts or other documents. In any case, before purchasing a meter yourself, it would be wise to clarify this issue directly on the spot.

Before purchasing an electric meter yourself, it would be wise to clarify who is assigned this responsibility in specific conditions, under existing contracts?

This is not what our publication is about. We will discuss below those cases when the purchase of a metering device is required by apartment owners.

So, in what cases may it be necessary to replace an electric meter?

No matter how reliable and accurate the meter may seem, and no matter how satisfied the owners are with it, it will have to be replaced with a new one if its service life established by the manufacturer has expired. These periods are considerable - they reach thirty years or more, but they still end sooner or later. Usually the date of manufacture is indicated both in the passport and on the body of the electric meter.

The meter may seem to be in perfect working order, but if its service life has exceeded the permissible norm, the device must be replaced

The meter has failed - naturally, immediate replacement is required. True, if the warranty period for the device has not expired, it must be replaced with a working one, or the costs of purchasing a new one must be reimbursed.
For one reason or another, the meter showed mechanical damage to the housing or glass, signs of burglary or other vandalism. Litigation for reasons most likely cannot be avoided, but a replacement will definitely have to be made.
The inspection interval established by the manufacturer or local energy supplier has been exceeded by more than two years. Even if the meter gives no reason to doubt the accuracy of the readings, it will most likely be forced to be replaced.

You should never forget about the timing of mandatory checks of metering devices. Failure to comply with them may also result in mandatory replacement of the meter.

The technical characteristics of the device no longer meet either modern requirements or actual conditions of use. For example, devices with accuracy class 2.5 and worse are completely taken out of service. According to current legislation, replacement is mandatory during scheduled inspections - it is allowed to use the old ones before the expiration of the inspection interval. Another option for discrepancy in characteristics is that the old meter’s permissible current indicators no longer suit the owners due to the increased load.
The owners want to switch to a system of differentiated energy consumption metering and, accordingly, install a meter with such functions.
A planned general replacement of all metering devices in this apartment building is also possible. However, in this case, all costs will most likely be borne by either the management company or the energy supplier. And most likely, owners will not be given the opportunity to independently select a meter.

Why do you need to know the degree of protection?

For safety, electric meters must be protected from external influences. Pay attention to their degree of protection. It is designated by the letters IP and two numbers, for example IP 56.

Both numbers are a code symbol. The first shows the degree of protection against the penetration of foreign objects, the second - from the ingress of water.

Let's talk about this in detail. The first number means the maximum size of an object that can get into the device: 0 - there is no protection at all, and any object can interfere with the operation of the device, 1 - objects less than 50 mm, 2 - less than 12.5 mm, 3 - less than 2.5 mm, 4 - less than 1 mm.

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If the first digit after IP is 1, it means you can easily touch the internal mechanisms of the device with your finger, 2 - with a tool, such as a screwdriver, 3 - only with a wire. It is almost impossible to pass the remaining levels of protection.

The second digit of the code value indicates the degree of protection from water: 0 - no protection, 1 - water flow from above will not enter the mechanism, 2 - minor drops will not interfere with its operation, 3 - the device will withstand rain, 4 - there is protection from direct water ingress , but not under high pressure, 5 - will tolerate a low-pressure jet, 6 - can withstand the ingress of water with a strong jet pressure, 7 - will remain operational after a short immersion, 8 - will work even after a long immersion.

Most often, devices with a degree of protection of IP 55 and higher are purchased - rain will not interfere with the operation of the device, and dirt and dust will not get into it.

The best models of electricity meters

Category	Place	Name	Rating	Characteristic	Link
Single-tariff models of single-phase metering devices	1	9.0 / 10	Reliability and accuracy
2	8.9 / 10	Protection from external interference and low price
3	8.0 / 10	Decent quality and best price
Multi-tariff models of single-phase metering devices	1	9.8 / 10	The best two-tariff meter
2	9.7 / 10	Fast payback
3	8.9 / 10	Optimal combination of price/quality
Single-tariff models of three-phase metering devices	1	9.9 / 10	High accuracy
2	8.0 / 10	Reliability and low cost
3	9.0 / 10	Optimal price/quality ratio
Multi-tariff models of three-phase metering devices	1	9.5 / 10	Affordable price
2	9.8 / 10	Universal electricity meter
3	9.6 / 10	The best domestic three-phase meter with great functionality

Which of these would you prefer?

Current load

When choosing a meter, you need to pay attention to its power, that is, you must know what current load it will have to withstand. Meters are manufactured for currents from 5 A to 100 A. To find out which device is right for you, you will need to calculate the power consumption of all electrical appliances on average per day in the country. If the power is below 10 kW, you can purchase a meter with a capacity from 5A to 60 A, if higher - 100 A.

Depending on the choice of location of the device, you need to pay attention to the fact that there are meters that can only be installed in heated rooms, and those that can operate at sub-zero temperatures.

Seals, verification, noise level

When purchasing a device, be sure to check whether there are seals on it. It is also necessary to pay attention to the date of state verification of the meter - no more than 2 years for single-phase and 1 year for three-phase devices. After installing a meter in a country house, it will also need to be verified. The calibration interval is set for each model and type of meter by the manufacturer and is written in the technical data sheet of the device. This is usually from 4 to 16 years depending on the model.

It would be a good idea to inquire about the noise level of the meter during operation.

By mounting method

Devices can be attached:

on DIN rail;
using screws.

Meter manufacturers provide the possibility of mounting the meter on three screws (for conventional electrical panels) or on a DIN rail. The device is installed on the rail in line with the machines. This makes it possible to save space.

Important! The installation of the metering device must be carried out by a specialist who has permission to perform work under voltage up to 1000 V.

Recommendations for choosing a meter

To make the right choice, you will need not only to familiarize yourself with the meter’s parameters, but also to find out some information about the electrical network. This will give you the opportunity to decide:

for how many phases to buy a meter;
How many tariffs the device should have is determined by each person individually;
It doesn’t hurt to determine how the selected device will need to be mounted. Although this does not affect its operation, it can significantly complicate installation work;
be sure to pay attention to the accuracy class of the equipment, since according to the law, not every meter will satisfy the established requirements;
It is better to place the meter in the country on the facade of the house, at a distance of 0.8-1.7 m. This way, the visual visibility of the device will be ensured to representatives of the network company;
Considering that at temperatures below 0º the devices begin to work incorrectly, you should consider additional installation of an insulated electrical panel;
Be sure to check the presence of two seals on the induction device and one on the electronic one. They are mounted mainly with screws;
specify the period of the verification interval.

Important! After installation, the device must be registered with the energy supply company.

When making your final choice, it doesn’t hurt to check with your sales company which devices, series and manufacturers are currently allowed in the selected territory. From the list provided, you can choose any one you like and begin installation work.

Problem with old meters

Problems with measuring electricity consumption may arise if you have an old-style three-phase electricity meter (inductive). In such situations, a countdown is often observed. For proper operation it is necessary to change the phase connection. You also need to understand which three-phase meter to choose for a private home if it is replaced.

When it happens that when you start one of your household electrical appliances, your fuses turn off, this means that the electrical installation is overloaded. This is for your own safety. To be able to use any number of devices without any obstacles, you must ask the energy company that supports you to check the connection capacity and increase it accordingly.

If you only have one phase, it's worth finding out whether the specifications allow you to change the connection to three-phase. You can also easily find out if you are using it anymore. Just check if the meter in your apartment is three-phase.

Assembling the meter in an installation cabinet

For installation, choose a place in the hallway or hallway of the house. Most often, the cable supply from the power pole is carried out through an intermediate support in the courtyard of the house. Your task is to install the cabinet, bring the corrugated cable to the support, connecting the cable to the line is assigned to the specialists of the energy network company. In addition to the overhead connection scheme, it is allowed to supply the cable to the house through a plastic or underground asbestos pipe. But in this case, the company will require that the cabinet with the electric meter be placed on a pole outside the household.

If you have agreed to the remote option of installing a cabinet with an electric meter, no one cares how you will continue to run the cable into the house. You can install supports or bury it to a depth of 0.7-0.9 m, as required by the rules. You just need to make a panel with packages to disconnect individual wiring segments and equip the grounding.

The cabinet is a box made of thin sheet metal with a door. Inside the box there are fasteners that facilitate the installation and installation of the main devices - the input package, the electric meter and the packages on the wiring distribution.

The input package, like an electric meter, is always equipped with an additional cover covering the contacts. The lid must have an industrial “ear” or cell for sealing.

The contacts from the input cable are connected to the package according to the diagram shown.

Next, you need to connect the phase and zero wires to the meter input; for this, use copper pieces of wire in colored polyvinyl chloride insulation. For installation, according to the rules, it is necessary to use copper wire with a cross-section of 1 mm2 per 10 amperes of current, but in practice, installation is carried out with a small margin - in sections with a cross-section of 5 mm2. Choose a dark wire for the phase wiring, a light one for the zero line, and follow this rule for all electrical wiring and installation of current consumers in the house.

The meter pin diagram for connecting the wiring is always provided on the body or cover of the device as an aid to installation. If you open the terminal box, it will become clear that the input and output of the phase wire are on the left, the inlet and outlet of the neutral wire are on the right.

Sources

https://vyborexperta.ru/remont-i-nedvizhimost/luchshie-yelektroschetchiki/
https://schetchik-info.ru/kak-vybrat-luchshij-schyotchik-elektroenergii/
https://remoo.ru/elektrika/kakoj-schetchik-ehlektroehnergii-luchshe-postavit-v-kvartire
https://instanko.ru/inzhenernye-sistemy/luchshie-elektroschetchiki-dlya-kvartiry.html
https://J.Etagi.com/ps/kakoj-schetchik-ehlektroehnergii-luchshe-postavit-v-kvartire/
https://market.yandex.ru/journal/knowledge/kak-vibrat-schetchik-elektroenergii
https://aif.ru/dontknows/eternal/kakoy_schetchik_elektroenergii_vybrat_dlya_dachi
https://enargys.ru/kakoy-schetchik-elektroenergii-luchshe-postavit-na-dache/
https://2proraba.com/elektrika/pravila-ustanovki-elektroschetchika-v-chastnom-dome.html

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