The replacement of water meters is regulated by law. This is an obligation imposed on every owner of a water consumption meter. Replacing water meters can be done in two ways. By replacing the device with a new one or by legalization. When should a water meter be replaced and what is its cost? You can read about it in this article.
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When to replace a water meter?
Exchange water meter is necessary when the device stops working properly or is unable to accurately measure water consumption. Typically, water meters have a warranty period of 2 to 5 years, and their service life is estimated at 15 years. However, there are cases where a water meter replacement may well take place before this time has elapsed. Remember that you, as the owner of the device, are responsible for its technical condition and the accuracy of water consumption measurement.
Replacing water meters can be done in two ways. By replacing the device with a new one or by legalization. The legal basis determining the method of use water meters and the conditions for their exchange are the Law on Measures and the Regulation of the Minister of Development and Finance of April 13, 2017 on the legal metrological control of measuring instruments. The water meter as a control device is the basis for calculating fees for water use and the need to pay them in accordance with the tariff. During the metrological inspection, the efficiency of the device is determined and the meter is allowed for further use or requires replacement. Water meters should be replaced every 5 years. If the water meter is damaged during use or does not provide data correctly, it should be immediately replaced with a new one with a new verification period. Even if the previous counter has not yet expired.
What are the costs of replacing a water meter?
Water meter replacement prices depend on the choice of device and its type. Replacing a water meter usually takes 30 minutes to an hour and is performed by a qualified plumber. The cost of legalizing the device is not high, usually ranging from PLN 60 to PLN 80. Replacing the device with a new one will be a slightly larger expense, ranging from PLN 70 to PLN 200. The price discrepancy is due to the diversity of many water meter models on the market.
Replacing a water meter costs a bit more than legalization, but it is a much more profitable investment in the long run. New water meters are more precise and do not require frequent calibration, which means lower costs when using water. It is worth remembering that replacing the water meter is also recommended in the case of old devices that may no longer be functional and indicate incorrect water consumption. Therefore, before replacing the water meter, it is worth using the services of specialists who will advise which model will be best for us and ensure professional installation. The costs of replacing a water meter are paid back in a short time and contribute to savings on water bills.
Failure to legalize the water meter at home - legal consequences
The law also specifies the consequences of failure to comply with the obligation to legalize or replace the water meter. Situations subject to penalty are specified in Article 26 of the Law on Measures and apply to both housing communities and private individuals. Replacing a water meter in a single-family house is the responsibility of its owner or user, if it is specified in a separate agreement. In the event of failure to meet the legalization deadline, use of the water meter contrary to its intended purpose, false readings or failure to replace the device despite a detected defect, the legislator provides for penalties in the form of arrest, restriction of liberty or a fine of up to PLN 10,000.
Recommended water meters for purchase at the Onninen hydraulic wholesaler
Bmeters water meter adapted for mounting a radio module
The water meter is manufactured according to: Directive 2004/22/EC. It is available in the measurement range R160-H or R100-H and R50-V (MID) for both cold water (30°C) and hot water (90°C) in diameters 12 and 34. The GSD8 model, in accordance with the Hygienic Certificate, is approved for measuring consumption of drinking water.
The water meter is available in two versions:
- standard water meter
- water meter equipped with a Wireless M-BUS or wired MBUS radio module
Apator hot water water meter
Water meter for measuring the flow and volume of water with a temperature of up to 30°C or 50°C or hot water with a temperature of up to 90°C through a closed installation with full stream flow, at a maximum working pressure of up to 16 bar (PN16). Installation in horizontal ducts (pipelines) with the counter pointing upwards (H) and vertical or horizontal lines with the counter pointing sideways (V).
Remember that proper operation of the water meter guarantees precise measurement of water consumption and savings on water bills. Therefore, always be vigilant and replace the device with a new one or have it verified if you notice any irregularities in its operation.