The replacement of water meters is regulated by law. It is an obligation imposed on every owner of a water consumption meter. The replacement of water meters can be carried out in two ways. By replacing the device with a new one or by legalization. When should the water meter be replaced and what is its cost? You will read about it in this article.
Check the water meters at the Onninen wholesaler
When to replace your water meter?
Exchange water meter is necessary when the device stops working properly or is unable to accurately measure water consumption. Water meters usually have a warranty period of 2 to 5 years, and their service life is estimated at 15 years. However, there are cases in which the water meter replacement may well take place before this time. Remember that you, as the owner of the device, are responsible for its technical condition and the accuracy of water consumption measurement.
The replacement of water meters can be done in two ways. By replacing the device with a new one or by legalization. The legal basis defining the method of use water meters and the conditions for their replacement are the Law on Measures and the Regulation of the Minister of Development and Finance of 13 April 2017 on the legal metrological control of measuring devices. The water meter as a control device is the basis for calculating fees for the use of water and the need to pay them in accordance with the tariff. During the metrological control, the efficiency of the device is determined and the meter is approved for further use or the obligation to replace it is imposed. Water meters should be replaced every 5 years. If the water meter is damaged during use or does not provide correct data, it should be replaced immediately with a new one, with a new legalization period. Even if the previous meter has not yet expired.
What are the costs of replacing a water meter?
The price of replacing water meters depends on the choice of device and its type. Replacing a water meter usually takes from 30 minutes to an hour and is carried out by a qualified plumber. The cost of legalizing the device is not high, usually from PLN 60 to PLN 80. Replacing the device with a new one will be a slightly larger expense, then the cost is from PLN 70 to PLN 200. The price difference results from the variety of many models of water meters on the market.
Replacing a water meter costs a little 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 a water meter is also recommended for 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 provide professional installation. The costs of replacing a water meter pay off in a short time and contribute to savings on water bills.
Lack of legalization of the water meter at home - legal consequences
The law also specifies the consequences of failure to comply with the obligation to legalize or replace a water meter. Situations subject to punishment 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 home is the responsibility of its owner or user, if this has been 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, falsification of readings or failure to replace the device despite the 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 plumbing wholesaler
Bmeters water meter adapted for mounting a radio module
The water meter is manufactured according to the 2004/22/EC directive. It is available in the measuring 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 is approved for measuring the consumption of water intended for consumption in accordance with the Hygiene Certificate.
The water meter is available in two versions:
- standard water meter
- water meter equipped with a Wireless M-BUS radio module or a wired MBUS module
Water meter for hot water by Apator
Water meter for measuring the flow and volume of water at a temperature of up to 30°C or 50°C or hot water at a temperature of up to 90°C through a closed system with full flow of the stream, at a maximum operating pressure of up to 16 bar (PN16). Installation in horizontal pipes (pipelines) with the counter directed upwards (H) and vertical or horizontal with the counter directed sideways (V).
Remember that the correct operation of the water meter is a guarantee of 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 legalized if you notice any irregularities in its operation.