Installation of electricity meters: installation features

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The main devices for reading indicators of used electricity, water and gas are meters. Installation of electricity meters can be done with your own hands, but it is better to entrust this task to specialist electricians who have the necessary skills and knowledge. If necessary, it is possible to install the metering device on a pole. This publication will discuss the types of devices, preparatory work before installation and connecting the device.

Electricity meters can be installed in residential premises if there is state verification

Installation of electricity meters: general information

The modern pace of life and the constant rise in prices force citizens to seriously think about total savings. Not least in the matter of saving is the payment for electricity and other natural resources. Therefore, in recent years the demand for the installation of electric meters has increased significantly.

Meters are installed according to clearly regulated rules

Most residents of our country, having performed basic calculations, have concluded that installing electricity meters is a very profitable way to save money, since the meter provides great opportunities (compared to the traditional tariff method). First of all, paying according to the readings of this device allows you to pay money only for the raw materials actually used, and also helps you fully control your expenses. Even when you go on vacation, you don’t have to worry about a huge electricity bill.

Helpful advice! A meter for recording consumed electricity is an extremely necessary device in every apartment and house. In addition, according to Russian law, premises in which electricity meters are not installed must be disconnected from the electricity supply.

Choosing an electricity meter: classification of devices

Technical progress does not stand still, so modern technologies have been introduced into all spheres of life. The electric power industry is no exception in this regard. Therefore, the choice of modern meters for accounting for used electricity is quite wide.

Mechanical meters are cheap, but they have significant operating errors

Devices are classified according to parameters such as operating principle and number of phases. Each device has its own technical characteristics and features.

Depending on the principle of operation, there are the following types of electricity meters:

1. Mechanical devices are the most common option. The mechanical parts of the device move due to the electric current that passes through the meter. The number of rotations indicates the electricity consumed. These devices are cheap, but they have significant operating errors.
2. Electronic designs are more modern devices. The amount of electricity used is recorded using a special microcircuit or semiconductor. The received information is then transmitted using sensors. These devices work much more accurately, but their price is higher.

Depending on the number of phases, electricity meters are single-phase and three-phase. The number of phases of the device must correspond to the number of phases in the network. However, in some cases, three-phase electricity meters are connected to a single-phase power supply. If there is a three-phase network, only three-phase devices can be installed.

Electronic devices work much more accurately than mechanical devices

Technologies are developing more and more, and it is now possible to install new electricity meters that are capable of metering used electricity at several tariffs. So, there are:

• single-tariff devices that count only according to one tariff;
• two-tariff devices - meters that divide the day into two tariff zones: day and night;
• three-tariff meters that take into account electricity consumption depending on three time intervals: peak, night and half-peak.

This is interesting! This division of the day occurred due to uneven loads at the substations. Electricity is generated around the clock, and sudden surges in electricity consumption negatively affect the operation of substation equipment. Maximum loads occur from 7 to 9 am and from 6 to 11 pm. Consequently, the cost of electricity during peak hours is higher than at night when consumption is minimal.

Depending on the number of phases, electricity meters are single-phase and three-phase

In what cases is replacement made?

There are several possible events that require replacing the meter:

• First of all, in 2006 the government decided that all electricity meters should be replaced if they have an accuracy class of more than 2.0. (As a rule, outdated devices include mechanical meters with the well-known spinning disk);
• if the meter has traces of mechanical damage - for example, the glass is broken or the mechanism itself does not work;
• if the device functions incorrectly, the amount of electricity consumed is calculated incorrectly, the indicators differ from the real ones;
• if the consumer has switched to a payment method based on several tariffs, then it is necessary to replace the existing meter with a multi-tariff one.

Replacing electricity meters: reasons for installation

Most often, replacement of meters occurs as a result of the following reasons:

• mechanical damage to the device body;
• technical malfunctions;
• outdated equipment;
• Damaged seals or their absence.

In most apartments, the installed electric meters are old models, that is, they were produced back in the 60s of the twentieth century. The developers of old devices did not expect that apartments would be so filled with household appliances. The daily life of the modern population is unthinkable without a microwave oven, washing machine, air conditioner and other household appliances. Consequently, there is a large overload of the meters, which may result in their fire. The situation is further aggravated by old wiring, which is also a fire hazard, which entails danger for the residents of the apartment.

In addition, the places where old electricity meters are located are often covered with cobwebs and a lot of dust. Old fasteners and sagging wires often dishearten apartment residents. Therefore, sooner or later, the owners decide to immediately repair and renovate the house. Since the old meter does not fit into the new interior, there is a desire to install an electric meter.

It is not customary to install electric meters in apartments yourself

The desire to save often involves the need to install new modern electricity meters. The engineers studied and took into account the multi-tariff electricity metering system. Consequently, anyone who owns such a device will be able to save about 30% of the usual monthly payment.

Helpful advice! The replacement or installation of an electric meter must be carried out during the repair or modernization of the energy supply system in the house. Typically, the service life of these devices is about 16 years, and a technical check must be carried out once every 24 months. After the specified period has expired, the device must be replaced.

How to choose the right electric meter

types of electricity meters can be used for household electricity metering:

:

• induction devices, the operating principle of which is based on simply counting the number of revolutions of the disk. This type of device is well known to all consumers, since all devices used so far belong to this type. They are distinguished by their simple design, ease of use, affordable price and long calibration period. The main disadvantage of these devices is their low accuracy. It should also be noted that their use does not imply the possibility of switching to a multi-tariff electricity consumption metering system;
• electronic devices characterized by compact size and high accuracy. The main operating mechanisms are built-in microcircuits, the functioning of which sometimes malfunctions, which leads to the need for repairs and unscheduled inspections. But at the same time, these meters can be used for multi-tariff calculations, which promises tangible benefits to the consumer, who can choose a convenient and rational mode of power consumption.

However, when choosing an electric meter for installation

in an apartment or house, you need to take into account the features of the facility’s electrical networks and, first of all, you need to take into account the number of phases connected to the house. The location of the device must also be taken into account. For example, electronic meters on the market are represented by products with mechanical and liquid crystal display. For those devices that will be installed indoors, this factor is not particularly important, but for devices installed outdoors or in a cold room, meters with an LCD screen are not the best choice, as they may fail.

a single-phase meter is mainly used

, a distinctive feature of which is the presence of four terminals for connecting cables: one pair each for incoming and outgoing wires.

More rarely, for household metering of electricity consumption, a three-phase meter

, equipped with 8 or more terminals. As a rule, such devices are installed in country houses and cottages, the power consumption of which is much higher, including due to the operation of powerful electrical appliances.

An important criterion for choosing an electricity meter is the accuracy class of the device - for household devices, the measurement error should not exceed 2%.

Connecting electricity meters: features of the work

Many people are interested in the question of how to install an electric meter. In most cases, the installation or replacement of electric meters is carried out by special organizations that install and configure the devices. The price of installing an electricity meter by employees of such companies is too high and is not always affordable for the average consumer. Therefore, if you wish, you can install an electricity meter yourself, without the participation of a certified specialist.

If you violate the rules for installing electricity meters, this can lead to an accident

To do this, you must comply with safety requirements when working with electricity and know the rules for installing an electricity meter. Taking this into account, you can avoid problems such as accidents, fires in the house or substation, and electric shock.

Since an electric meter is a complex and complex device, its operation can therefore be affected by external factors, such as high humidity, temperature, and aggressive chemicals. Typically, all installation requirements are met when placing the device in an apartment. If installed on a staircase, you will need a special box for the electric meter.

Helpful advice! It is not recommended to engage in the installation process without the necessary qualifications and knowledge of the law. Violation of the rules for installing electricity meters can lead to an accident.

How to install an electricity meter: installation location

Installation of metering devices must be carried out in specially designated places: in cabinets, niches, on panels or boxes for electric meters. To install the device, it is necessary to equip the wooden or plastic shield for the meter with a rigid mount.

The installation height of the meter above the floor should be from 0.8 to 1.7 meters

The device is installed at a height of 80 cm to 1.7 m, but in case of urgent need, the installation height can be reduced to 40 cm. Below this figure, installation of the device is prohibited.

Particular attention must be paid to the installation location of the device if the electricity meter needs to be installed in the garage. Typically, such a room is not heated, therefore, the device must be resistant to low temperatures and moisture. There are meters on sale that are designed for installation in unheated rooms. Such devices are also useful for dachas or houses that are heated inconsistently in winter.

Helpful advice! It is very important that after installing the device, comfortable access is provided to the cabinet, drawer or niche for inspection and repair of the electric meter by maintenance personnel.

How to register a new counter

Commissioning of the device is mandatory, otherwise the readings will not be taken into account.

Registration procedure in 2022:

1. An application is submitted to the utility service provider (MC, HOA, Energosbyt). The document contains all the IPU information, personal data and address. A copy of the product passport is attached.
2. At the appointed time, an employee will come and check the functionality of the mechanism and the correct installation. Adjustments are made if necessary.
3. If there are no comments, then sealing is carried out and a corresponding report is drawn up.
4. The supporting document is submitted independently or through a specialist to the service company.

After completing all procedures, the electric meter is considered registered and put into operation.

Who should install electricity meters: let’s understand the situation

All issues related to metering of used electricity and related equipment are resolved in accordance with the requirements specified in various legislative documents. They set out the procedure and features of repair and replacement of devices, as well as rules for operating the devices.

After installing a new meter, you need to submit an application for sealing to the energy supply company

Monitoring of the correct operation of the device, as well as maintenance, is carried out by power supply companies. Replacing an electricity meter is possible only after submitting an application for replacement of the device to this organization. To do this, you need to have the following documents with you:

• passport;
• document confirming ownership.

The installation of a new device must be carried out by a qualified specialist, since a person without experience can not only make critical errors when connecting, but also completely break the new device. Only a specialist knows how to properly connect the electric meter.

It is very important after installing a new device to submit an application for sealing to the energy supply company. An authorized person draws up an acceptance certificate for the meter and seals the device.

Helpful advice! The cost of installing an electricity meter, regardless of the reason for replacement, must be paid by the owner of the premises.

Installation of the meter must be carried out by a qualified specialist

Owner's procedure

Installing a new meter requires certain steps. They are not much different if the meter has expired or has broken down and needs to be replaced with a new one.

There is a certain procedure that the owner must follow when installing the meter.

To do this he must:

• Contact the energy sales office with an application, which will be reviewed within 7 days;
• To do this, you will need the owner’s passport or a power of attorney if the application is submitted by another person;
• The inspector will require proof of ownership. It is necessary to provide a purchase and sale agreement, deed of gift, etc.;
• Permit, technical specifications and project for installation of electrical equipment. Ground loop test report. It is provided with a three-phase connection;
• A date is agreed upon for the inspector to visit to check the correct installation of electrical equipment. The inspector must arrive no later than 15 days from the date of filing the application;
• Electrical equipment is being installed. It can be installed on its own, if the owner has the appropriate skills, or by an invited electrician;
• An act is drawn up in two copies; if installation and commissioning is carried out by a third-party organization, the number of acts will be three. It indicates the owner’s data, meter type, primary readings, seal number.

The acts are signed by all interested parties and take their copies. The owner must keep his copy. It is presented to the inspector during inspection.

Electric meter on a pole: features of placement and connection

In recent years, the option of installing electric meters on a pole on the street has been very often used. This is especially convenient for energy supply company employees when taking readings. In a private house, if the meter is located inside, readings can only be taken if its residents are present. When placing the device outdoors, the situation is different.

Related article:

Smart electricity meters: a useful and convenient device

Types of devices. Principle of operation. Advantages and disadvantages of automatic devices. Market Review.

Let's consider some features of the location of the electricity meter on the pole:

1. Anyone who has skills in working with electricity has the opportunity to install electricity meters on a street pole. However, the right to connect electricity to the device is limited to representatives of the electricity supplier only.
2. If the electricity meter is installed outside the premises, namely on a street pole, by representatives of electrical networks, then there should be no complaints against the consumer. Even before the start of installation work, documents are prepared that indicate the requirements for the installation of a specific metering device and the balance sheet boundary.
3. Installation of an electricity meter on a pole is carried out only with the consent of the owner of the meter. In private houses, the balance sheet boundary is not indoors, but outdoors. In this case, the exact location must be determined by the relevant technical documentation.

Installation of the meter on a pole is carried out only if there is consent from the owner of the metering device

Helpful advice! Very often, electric meters fail due to burnout of the terminals at the junction of the wires. It is very important to pay attention to the tightening of the screws on the clamps. It is recommended to re-tighten all screw connections before installing the cover.

Stages of installing meters on a pole: process features

At the first stage of installation, you need to agree on the specific location of the electric meter on a street pole. The main condition is the optimal location of the device from ground level. According to the norm, it should be at a height of 0.8 m to 1.7 m. In some cases, for example, to eliminate the possibility of vandalism, meters are mounted at a height of more than 2.5 m.

This arrangement is not very convenient for the work of power grid employees, since taking readings at the expected height is extremely inconvenient and almost impossible.

The electric meter should be at a height of 0.8 m to 1.7 m

To install the meter on a pole, you must perform the following steps:

1. The input line must be de-energized. The organization that supplies the energy agrees to carry out this process.
2. Grounding must be provided. This condition is aimed at ensuring that all electrical appliances in the house continue to operate safely.
3. Connecting wires. The electrical wires are first connected to the circuit breaker, after which they should be connected to the electric meter.
4. Wiring is connected. All wiring in the house is done at the last stage.
5. Sealing the device. After installing an electricity meter on a pole, you need to invite energy network workers to seal the device and register it.

Helpful advice! The implementation of each stage must strictly comply with the rules and regulations that are established for working with electrical appliances.

Why do they trust us?

If we take on your order, it will be done quickly and in strict accordance with SNIPs, GOSTs and other regulatory documents.
We document the high quality of work: if the meter fails within 5 years, we will fix the problem without delay and free of charge. In addition, our prices are reasonable. We prefer reliable, high-quality devices that work perfectly for decades over cheap, short-lived products that would help reduce the overall cost of the service.

Call Elektroznatok and a technician will come to your site within 24 hours!

Installation of an electricity meter in an apartment: cost of work

Usually, installing an electricity meter does not cause any particular difficulties and can be done independently. As for professional connection, the pricing policy is quite varied. The price of installing an electricity meter in an apartment is influenced by such characteristics as the type of device and its technical parameters.

Before replacing the meter, a specialist must carry out preparatory work

To figure out how much it costs to install an electric meter, you need to consider the following criteria:

• device modification;
• type of electrical network;
• features of connection conditions;
• the need for additional work;
• number of connected devices.

Before replacing the meter, the technician must complete preparatory work.

Helpful advice! How much does it cost to install or replace an electricity meter? Most often, the price is 50% of the cost of the device itself. However, the final amount may vary depending on the complexity of the work and the qualifications of the craftsman.

The cost of installing the meter is affected by the number of connected devices