Taking readings from the heat meter. Useful information Do it yourself or trust professionals
Currently, in almost all Russian regions, charges for utilities occur according to the same scenario: the tenant submits readings from his metering devices to the management company, and the management company takes readings from general house meters and calculates the difference in readings between them and individual metering devices.
If this difference does not exceed the standards for common areas (stairwells, corridors, basements, etc.), it is proportionally divided among all residents. Otherwise, the management company pays the difference from its income. If the tenant did not submit readings from his metering devices to the Criminal Code in a timely manner, or his devices ended the calibration interval, then for the first two months the management company charges for the consumed resources, taking into account the average consumption for the previous period. In the future, the Criminal Code calculates payment based on the standards for a particular region.
As a rule, the standards significantly exceed the actual need for resources. For example, in central Russia in modern energy-efficient houses, real heat consumption in 2-2.5 times less than the standard. Accordingly, the timely transmission of testimony is, first of all, in the interests of the tenant himself.
The process of taking readings from a heat meter is described in. In this article, we will talk a little more about how to read the SANEXT heating meter.
The principle of operation of the heat meter
First, a little about the principle of operation of the heat meter. The SANEXT heat meter is designed to work in horizontal heating systems. A flow meter with a built-in electronic module - a heat meter is installed in the direct or return pipeline, and temperature sensors are built into the supply and return pipelines. The complex of devices is called a thermal energy metering unit.
The heat carrier is water or a glycol-based mixture, which contains a certain amount of heat. Taking into account the flow of the heat carrier in the pipeline by the flow meter and the temperature difference with the help of sensors, the apartment heat meter itself calculates the heat consumption, taking into account the density and mass of the heat carrier per unit volume depending on its temperature. Heat energy consumption is measured in gigacalories.
The display of the heat meter shows the values of controlled parameters, their dimension, as well as information about the settings and status of the meter. The control button selects the displayed parameter. The display automatically returns to sleep mode 10 minutes after the last activation.
How to take heat meter readings
A short press of the button activates the display in the mode menuR1 . By pressing the key, you can view the items menu R1 one at a time in the following order:
- Accumulated heat consumption;
- Water temperature in the supply pipeline;
- Return water temperature;
- Temperature difference in pipelines;
- Instant consumption;
- Instant power;
- Accumulated heat consumption;
- Time;
- Accumulated number of hours;
- Counter number;
- counter type;
- Software number;
- Dispatch connection address;
Thus, a step-by-step instruction on how to read a SANEXT heating meter consists of three simple steps:
- Activate the operation of the heat meter by briefly pressing the button;
- The first displayed parameter is the accumulated consumption of thermal energy, which is measured in Gcal;
- Write off readings from the display (SANEXT ultrasonic heat meter displays 3 decimal places);
Long press the button for 3 seconds to access other menus. MenuR2 shows archived values. The archive depth is 18 months. To enter the values of the previous month, a short press of the button is required. The display will then automatically change values in the following order:
- Month;
- Monthly volume;
- Monthly heat consumption;
Each subsequent short press of the button gives the readings for the previous month displayed on the display.
Menu R4– calibration mode. The content of this menu is similar menu R1, but is used only to adjust the device in accordance with reference samples to eliminate reading errors.
To get back to the main menu R1, hold down the button until R1 lights up on the display in the upper left corner.
For a better perception of information, the heat meter display, in addition to numbers, contains graphic symbols, such as when displaying the temperature of the coolant in the supply pipeline.
Heat meter dispatching
Unfortunately, the described method of taking readings of heat meters has a number of disadvantages. First, it requires time and the regular presence of the tenant to take evidence. That is, in the case of business trips or a long vacation, residents who do not provide heat meter readings on time will be charged for heating according to the standards. Secondly, a malfunction of the heat meter can only be detected with a direct inspection of the metering unit. In the event of mechanical damage or emergency situations in the heating system, residents will have to pay not for the actual heat consumption, but for the indications of an incorrectly working device. It is much more convenient to take readings of the heat meter by means of telemetry systems (dispatching).
The range of SANEXT heat meters supports all possible interfaces for connecting to any telemetry system, both wired and wireless. it automates the transfer process and allows you to constantly keep under control the entire heating system of an apartment building. You can send data to the information system GIS housing and communal services or directly to the heat supply organization, bypassing the management company. These solutions have already been implemented in many residential properties.
Now you know how to take readings from the SANEXT heating meter in accordance with the operating rules for this device.
If you have any questions, please write in the comments.
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At one time, utility tariffs were low, and none of the consumers thought about installing meters for water and heat. Now the rates have risen so much that a significant part of the family budget is spent on their payment. A particularly large amount in the receipt is the payment for heating. Therefore, property owners, trying to save money, decide to install heat, gas and water meters. The fact is that payment for the supplied services is charged by public utilities in accordance with approved standards, and not upon consumption.
Why do you need a heat meter?
Of course, it is beneficial to install a heat consumption meter, since the monthly amount for heating will be calculated according to the current tariffs and based on the readings taken from the individual meter. Thus, a consumer who has installed a heat energy meter pays only for the services received without the additions of utility companies that supply heat (read also: ""). In addition, the owners have the opportunity to regulate the temperature of heating rooms or utility rooms manually or automatically (subject to the installation of an electronic control system).Consumers should be aware that a heat meter does not save it, it allows you to pay for the actual energy consumed, and not according to approximate calculations obtained as a result of the theoretical development of state standards. Individual heat meters, such as in the photo, allow you to save a significant amount of money on paying for heat supply services, it can be up to 60%.
Types of modern heat meters
Commercially available heat meters for heating in an apartment are not one device, but a set of devices.The set may include:
- sensors;
- calculators for the amount of consumed thermal energy;
- flow, pressure and resistance transducers.
- house (industrial);
- apartment (individual).
As a heat carrier, water is usually used, heated to the desired temperature.
- heat calculator;
- hot water consumption meter.
House (industrial) heat meters
Household or industrial heat meters for heating are used for installation at production facilities and in multi-apartment buildings. To account for heat, one of three methods is used: electromagnetic, turbine or vortex. The main difference between industrial appliances and residential appliances is their size. The diameter of house meters ranges from 25 to 300 millimeters. The measurement range of the amount of heat carrier is about 0.6-2.5 m³/h.Mechanical heat meters
The mechanical (or tachometric) heat energy meters shown in the photo are simple units. Usually they are equipped with a heat meter and a rotary water meter. The principle of how this type of heating meter works is as follows: for the convenience and accuracy of measurement, the translational movement of the liquid coolant turns into rotational.
A mechanical (tachometric) meter is a very economical purchase, but the cost of filters should be added to its price. As a result, the kit will cost the consumer about 15% cheaper than other types of heat meters, but on condition that the pipeline diameter does not exceed 32 mm.
Mechanical devices have a significant drawback - they cannot be used when the coolant (water) has a high degree of hardness and if it contains particles of rust, scale or scale, because they clog filters and flow meters.
Ultrasonic heat meters
Manufacturers offer consumers a wide range of models of ultrasonic heat meters. True, the principle of operation for all of them is almost the same: two devices are installed on the pipe opposite each other - an emitter and a device that receives ultrasonic signals. The emitter sends a special signal through the coolant flow and after a while it is received by the receiver. The time interval between the emission and reception of a signal depends on the speed of movement of water through the pipeline. When the time is known, the coolant flow rate is calculated.
An ultrasonic heat meter, in addition to its main functions, can adjust the supply of thermal energy. These thermal energy meters are more accurate readings, they are more reliable and durable than tachometric devices.
Installation of heat energy meters
According to experts, the best solution to the question of where it is better to put a meter is to install a common house heat meter. Then all consumers living in the house will not have to pay for heat energy, which in fact was not supplied to the building. But the cost is big. True, if you divide it by the number of apartments, then it will be quite affordable.To install a common house heat energy meter, you will first need to hold a general meeting of residents, draw up a documented decision (draw up and sign a protocol) and submit an application to the management company with a request to connect the unit. After the heat meter is installed, a person from among the consumers will be required to be responsible for taking readings from the device in a timely manner and issuing receipts for each apartment.
If not all residents of the house or entrance agree to the installation of a heat meter, then the owner of the apartment should think about how to significantly reduce the financial costs of individual heating of their own housing.
Installation of an individual heat meter
Before you install a heating meter in a separate apartment of a multi-storey building, you will need to perform a number of activities and actions, otherwise connecting the device will not be appropriate and legal.Step one . It is necessary to eliminate the existing sources of heat loss, including cracks in the windows, insufficiently insulated entrance doors, and freezing corners. Only after this, the installation of a heat meter will result in significant savings in money.
step two . The management company (ZHEK, HOA) must provide the owner of the apartment with technical conditions (TU) - they attribute the requirements that must be met in order to connect. Usually the text of the conditions takes up an A4 sheet. It certainly indicates information about the temperature and pressure of the coolant entering the pipeline of a particular house.
Step Three . Knowing these parameters, you can start buying a heat meter without fail in a company that works legally. When purchasing the device, you must require a sales receipt and cash receipt, a certificate confirming the quality, rules and instructions for use.
Step five . A measuring thermal device is being installed by employees of a licensed organization specializing in this type of service.
When choosing a company, it is advisable to pay attention to a number of nuances:
- for the availability of information about the organization in the Unified State Register of Legal Entities;
- for the presence of a package of necessary documentation, including certificates, certificates, permits of SROs;
- availability of qualified specialists;
- availability of special equipment;
- to perform a full list of installation works;
- availability of a free visit of a specialist to the client’s apartment in order to inspect communications;
- availability of warranties for the work performed.
To make life easier for yourself, the owner of the apartment has the right to order all of the above works in one place - in a company that deals with this type of service at a professional level, however, you will have to pay a considerable amount for this. If you have the desire and free time, you can prepare the installation documents yourself.
Checking heat meters
Usually, new appliances are sold with an initial check, which is carried out at the factory that manufactures them. The proof that the verification of heat meters has been carried out is the presence of a special sticker corresponding to the record, a special stamp, both on the devices and in the documents attached to them.During operation, verification of heating meters is carried out at the expense of apartment owners once every 4 years, for its implementation it is necessary to contact a number of organizations and institutions:
- to the branch of Rostest;
- to a company that has the appropriate authority to carry out the audit;
- to the service center of the manufacturer.
They independently take readings from the meter for heating in the same way as from the electric meter. In the receipt for payment, the difference in readings is indicated, multiplied by the established tariff and payment is made, for example, in one of the branches of Sberbank. The recipient of the payment is the heat supply organization.
Heat meters - installation advantages, detailed video:
Restrictions on installing a heat meter in an apartment
Many consumers are interested in whether they put meters for heating individually in each apartment? The fact is that in most domestic apartment buildings, when creating a heating system, a vertical riser wiring is used, which prevents the installation of one apartment meter.In such a situation, there is only one solution - to put meters on radiators, but such a solution is difficult to implement for the following reasons:
- installing several heat appliances in one apartment will cost its owners a tidy sum, since each meter for a heating battery costs a lot of money;
- taking readings from each device is hampered by the fact that utility workers are not able to make monthly rounds of all the rooms in the apartments of the house in order to record data. When doing this work on your own, you can get confused in the numbers and make mistakes in the calculations;
- maintenance problems - several devices are much more difficult to control and verify their correct functioning;
- the meter for the heating radiator has poor accuracy, since the difference at its inlet and outlet is so small that the device is often unable to fix it.
In buildings built after 2000, a horizontal distribution of the heating system is used, so in such apartments it is enough to install one heat consumption meter, and distributors are not required.
As a result of the above measures, it is possible to significantly reduce the monthly payments for services provided by utilities through the installation of heat meters.
Answers to search queries of site visitors: how to take readings from a heat meter, how to take readings from a heat meter correctly, how heat is calculated from a heat meter. Let's take a look at 2 options:
a) You take readings yourself, manually, i.e. just overwrite the values in .
Now there is no need for this (if only for your own complacency). New - the accounting journal was canceled. Is it good or bad. It is good that the quality of heat meters has increased so much that the need to keep a log has disappeared, all data can be read at any time directly from the heat meter directly or via a flash drive, computer or laptop.
It is bad if you have an old heat meter. Since this year, he is outlawed, which means he will live until the next state inspection, after which the heat meter will have to be replaced without fail.
If you still want to take readings, for yourself, manually study the instruction manual for your heat meter - the heat meter maintenance section, or the instruction manual - a mandatory application to the project of the heat metering unit.
Moreover, the readings must be taken at the same time. You can set the pick-up time yourself, as you wish, we recommend the morning hours. accounting and is also a mandatory annex to the project.
What values for removal are required depends on the specific node. As a rule, this is the temperature in the supply and return pipelines, the flow rate of the coolant in the supply and return pipelines is better in (t), the amount of heat energy received - the value can be in any units - Gcal, MW, kJ.
On counters of domestic production, these values look like this - Gcal; MW; kJ; imported kW (kWh-current); MW; MJ or GJ.
For heating networks, it's all the same. They themselves will recalculate into Gcal. For verification, I recommend downloading or remembering that 1 Gcal is 1.163 MW (MW) or 4.187 GJ (GJ). The last mandatory value is the operating time of the meter or operating time.
b) You take readings yourself (the rules do not prohibit this) using technical means - a cumulative remote control, a printer, a laptop. The most acceptable for you is, of course, the printer - with it you will make the least mistakes.
How to shoot is again in the "instructions" - an appendix to the project. I would certainly recommend you to hire specialists. Why - .
If you hire specialists, for control, put a small notebook in the shield with a heat meter, where they will record for you the date of taking readings and the amount of thermal energy at the time of taking them. This is your requirement to voice in advance, before the conclusion of the contract, otherwise they have every right to refuse.
Analyzing the records of readings, you can easily control the amount billed to you for heat by thermal networks. And it is imperative that they themselves transmit the readings to the heating networks, otherwise why do you need them. As my first master said, even a monkey can do such work if it is taught to press buttons.
And a final note, never try to save heat by cheating. With modern methods of control, everything is very easily controlled. Punishment court costs and payment of five times the amount. This is the best economy.
How to correctly take readings of a kwh meter manufactured in 1985;
Read a little higher section "a". I would recommend replacing the heat meter of 1985, since already in 1995, after the release of the rules for accounting for thermal energy and coolant, it ceased to comply with them, and it does not comply with the new rules all the more, and the worst thing is that it is unknown what.
Based on operating experience, heat meters of 1998-99 do not pass state verification - they do not correspond to the declared parameters due to wear. Although there are individuals, pressure gauges manufactured in 1961 pass state verification without additional adjustments, and new ones out of the box do not pass it. It all depends on the manufacturer.
How is heat calculated?
The amount of received thermal energy is calculated in Gcal. It is accepted for calculation by thermal networks in any values - it can be - Gcal, MW, kJ, GJ.
On counters of domestic production, these values look like this - Gcal; MW; kJ; imported kW; MW; MJ or GJ. For heating networks, in what quantities you will transfer the data anyway. They themselves will recalculate into Gcal.
1 Gcal is 1.163 MW (MW) or 4.187 GJ (GJ).
Saving heat with the help of UUTE.
Is an SRO (old license) required for the installation of heat meters;
Yes, the answer is clear. In addition, the specialists of the company installing the devices are required to have initial training and valid certification in the technical supervision bodies. Therefore, if you are a manager concluding a contract, check the certification documents with the contractor in advance. Otherwise, your heat meter will never become commercial.
How to install a heat meter yourself;
Do I have the right to install a heat meter myself;
As follows from the above, it is impossible, and moreover, I do not advise you to undertake it. The rules for installing heat meters from different manufacturers are very different from each other. Even if you are a heating engineer, metrologist, instrumentation engineer, welder, electrician, plumber, all rolled into one, which is unlikely, you will have to remember or study all the rules, GOSTs, SNiPs and also installation manuals for this heat meter. The cost of services in this market has now fallen. And the area of heat supply is so complex that sometimes even specialists lack knowledge and experience. My personal opinion is that it is high time for us to forget the communist times and earn money where we work. Thankfully it's not banned now. No offense. I myself am like you. Brought up in communist times, I know how to do everything better than modern "specialists". Why do kids always scold me?
How are heat meter readings calculated?
The following is taken into account:
- the amount of thermal energy received by the heat meter.
- the amount of heat spent on feeding the heating system, if there was a leak in the heating system. In this case, the possible error of the flow meters and the permitted normative leakage of water from the heating system must be taken into account.
- loss of thermal energy to metering devices in accordance with the contract.
These data are summarized and multiplied by the cost of 1 Gcal.
How to check if the payment for heat according to the heat meter is correctly calculated;
Calculate the difference, the value of Q is the amount of heat energy consumed between the last and penultimate reporting dates. Since, for example, if it were an electric meter.
Convert your heat meter readings to Gcal.
To do this, if you have Q in MW, multiply by 0.8598; if in GJ, multiply by 0.2388, you will get the value in Gcal.
Add the amount of contractual losses, if any. Losses should be stipulated in the contract and painted by months.
Multiply the amount of heat received by the cost of 1 Gcal.
If this value differs from the one set for you, check if you have had any water leakage from the heating system. To do this, look at the consumption readings, parameter G in (t) as well as in the case of Q by reporting dates. If the data do not differ by more than 2% (for closed heating systems), in some heating networks they accept 4%, 2% error of one flow meter, 4%, respectively, of 2 flow meters - flow meters are devices that count the amount of water that has passed through your heating system or hot water supply. If they differ, it means that you have been charged an additional cost for drawing water from the heating system.
It is considered so. The amount of water withdrawal, (taking into account the error of the instruments) in (t) is multiplied by the temperature difference between the return pipeline and the temperature of cold water for a given period. Get the value in Gcal, which is added to the heat you consumed. Data is usually rounded to whole numbers, the remainder is carried over to the next reporting period.
Checked, you can now go argue or sleep peacefully. I'm always in control, because errors are common, both through the fault of people and the fault of programmers writing programs for reports.
Earlier, an article was published on our website about what is the "Statement of Accounting for Heat Consumption Parameters". In it, we set out in sufficient detail what parameters fixes heat meter in this statement, and what malfunctions of the heat energy metering unit (UUTE) can be determined by analyzing the "printout" with metering device. In this article, we will consider how the above statement can be extracted from the meter using the example of a VIS.T brand heat meter. There are at least 4 main ways to transfer readings from a meter to a consumer:
- By direct printing to a printer. To do this, a specially configured printer must be connected to the LPT connector on the heat meter's computing unit. Printing is started from heat meter menu.
- Using a specialized data transfer adapter.
- ASUPR or other dispatching system. To do this, the UUTE must be equipped with a modem that performs remote data transmission via GSM, Ethernet or another data transfer protocol.
- Taking readings on a computer.
The first three methods described involve the installation of additional specialized equipment, and quite expensive. Each of these methods has its own advantages with a certain set of factors, such as: the number of objects, their geographical location, the diversity of the fleet of metering devices used. In order to optimally select the equipment configuration and not overpay for unnecessary equipment, it is better to seek advice from our specialists. If your device is not equipped with additional equipment, and readings from the device need to be taken somehow, I will dwell in more detail on the fourth method of taking readings from the UUTE using a computer. This method will require minimal financial costs, provided that the consumer has a suitable device based on the Windows operating system. So, we will need:
- Computer (laptop, tablet or other device based on the Windows operating system). Of course, the most convenient device, from personal experience, is a small laptop.
- In view of the fact that modern computers rarely have an RS-232 COM port on board, but are equipped with USB connectors for connecting peripheral devices, it is necessary to purchase adapterUSB- RS232 . This is cheaper than a printer or data transfer adapter.
In our case, this is MOXA USB Serial Port (COM1). Next, install and run the Lexx program. Click File / Program Settings. In the window that opens, select the Communication port. In our case, this is COM1, respectively. The communication port speed must be set to the same as specified in the heat meter settings. Most often there are devices with a speed setting of 9600, but a different data transfer rate can be set up to 57600. In order not to start receiving data every time in manual mode, I recommend checking the box “Accept protocols automatically” and save the settings by pressing the OK key. In the device menu, open the settings, check the data output "Modem" connect adapter RS-232 port connector to the “modem” connector on the heat meter. Make sure the baud rate matches the setting in the program on your computer. Save the settings in the device.
Then go to instrument print menu, select the period for which you want to generate statement. On your computer, make sure "COM1, 9600 Bps: Waiting for Data" is displayed in the lower right corner of the Lexx program window. Confirm the print sheet on the instrument. A bar should appear on the computer screen indicating that data is being transferred to the device. After the data transfer is completed (the procedure usually takes about 1 minute), the number corresponding to your device should appear in the list of devices. heat meter and a statement should appear in the right part of the program window.
It can be printed directly from the program (printer icon), or exported (blue floppy disk icon) to an RTF file that is supported by Microsoft Word. It looks somewhat intricate, but only at the first reading. Once you perform the procedure for setting up the device and the computer, in the future, taking readings will take no more than 2-3 minutes. If it does not work out, you can always contact our specialists who will help you set up the equipment and provide further technical support if you have any questions about the operation of the UUTE.
There are many situations when the organization of remote meter reading becomes the best way out. If the meter is located in a hard-to-reach place. If the energy supply requires a meter to be hung on a pole, which is not uncommon in cottage, summer cottages and garage cooperatives. If the enterprise has remote facilities or a branch network and centralized collection of readings from many meters is necessary. If the enterprise has tenants (for example, shopping, office centers) and it is inconvenient for it to organize their rounds every time. And so on.
All these "pains" are treated by remote reading of meters. Even 10 years ago, only large enterprises had such an opportunity. Now, as technology develops, a private trader can also automate his counter.
At first there was the experience of telecoms ...
We, Technotronics, would like to share our experience in the development and implementation of such systems. For the first time we dealt with this topic more than 12 years ago. As a developer and manufacturer of systems for monitoring parameters, security and remote control at communication facilities, we were faced with the fact that it was extremely costly and inconvenient for telecom operators to take readings from their facilities.
Our communications clients, having many (hundreds!) territorially scattered and "uninhabited" objects, each month allocated a person to go around all the objects and take readings from them manually. Time, fuel costs, wages - the list of losses goes on. To solve this problem, we have added the remote meter reading function to our devices for complex monitoring of communication facilities. As a result, having equipped their facilities with new devices, telecom operators received automatic centralized collection of readings. Such a decision was extremely convenient for them also because the dispatch centers with our software, where the readings were sent, had already been organized.
Indeed, an ideal situation arose: in a single window, signalmen saw the state of their objects (temperature, humidity, the presence of leakage, power surges, the fact of unauthorized opening, etc.); could remotely turn on / off any equipment (siren, air conditioner, switches, etc.); and also saw all the data from the meters, could automatically build reports and graphs of consumption, and so on.
How to make counter automation accessible to everyone?
Everything would be fine, but only to build such a system was “on the shoulder” of a large organization interested in complex monitoring, and not in one resource accounting function. What then should private traders and small organizations that need to automate 1-2 meters do? Install expensive and complex software for them, where there are many other functions that they do not demand? Install a multifunctional monitoring device, instead of a specialized unit? We began to ask ourselves all these questions when we were gradually approached by organizations and individuals who needed a system that worked on different principles. And we continued to develop.
Reading devices with WEB-interface
First, as an alternative, devices using WEB technology were born. In fact, both the device and the dispatch center are in one bottle. These are specialized blocks for taking readings from meters, viewing data from which is available through the WEB interface of the device from any Internet browser. There are four such devices in our range:
- Modules MSI-6E, MSI-2E - automation of taking readings from the pulse output of electricity, water, heat and gas meters. Viewing readings is available via the Internet. MSI-6E takes readings from a maximum of 6 metering devices, MSI-2E - from 2.
Rice. 1. Scheme for taking readings from electric meters based on MSI-6E
- Devices Teleport-M230, Teleport-SE120 - automation of taking readings from the Mercury 230 electricity meter and from the Energomera-CE102 electricity meter. Readings can be viewed through the WEB interface of the device in any Internet browser.
Rice. 2. Scheme for taking readings from the Mercury 230 electric meter based on Teleport-M230
Free KUB-Infra service for viewing readings from water, heat, electricity meters via the Internet
Further more. In 2016, Technotronics started developing the KUB-Infra cloud service https://cloud.ttronics.ru, which allows viewing meter readings via the Internet. At the moment, the service has been put into operation, and we consider it the easiest and most convenient way to solve the problem of remote meter reading.
Rice. 3. Electricity consumption per day, broken down by hours
Why is this solution better than just a device with a web interface?
- Access to data from any remote point without paying for the service of a white (fixed) IP address to an Internet provider.
- Ability to see consumption by hours/days/months/years. You see consumption in dynamics (graphics, etc.), and in the web interface only the current value.
- Support for any multitariff.
- Support for a large number of interface counters.
- Extensive reporting capabilities.
What needs to be done to connect your meter to the KUB-Infra cloud service and start viewing readings via the Internet?
It is necessary to purchase the KUB-Infra reading device of the same name, connect meters to it, and the device will automatically start sending data to the cloud service. After registering for the service, your meter readings will be available to you. And most importantly, you can use the service for free! We don't charge for viewing!
If you need more: temperature, humidity, voltage, current and more
Starting with resource accounting, we went further - we organized the ability to monitor temperature and humidity, voltage and current values through the KUB-Infra service, as well as remotely control something at the facilities, for example, de-energize all sockets with one click.
It is especially pleasant that all these functions can be organized using the same KUB-Infra controller. The device provides all relevant inputs/outputs for sensors. Therefore, if you need to organize something else in addition to accounting for resources, it is enough to purchase the appropriate sensor (temperature, humidity, current sensor, voltage control unit, etc.), and connect it to KUB-Infra. You will track the parameters in the same place - in your personal account on the KUB-Infra service. At the same time, if the parameter goes beyond the norm, the system will notify you by e-mail or via messenger.
Fans of innovation can try on the KUB-Infra service for themselves. To do this, go to the demo version of the KUB-Infra service https://cloud.ttronics.ru (login - demo, password - demo).If you are interested in the topics of building centralized systems for monitoring objects (climate, flooding, security, remote control, etc.), battery monitoring, AWP energy, visit our website ttronics.ru
The installed heat meter counts the amount of heat energy that is spent on heating the room. Each of the objects consuming such energy has a thermal maximum load (Gcal / h), obtained taking into account the air temperature in the street and in the room. In this formula, the minimum air temperature is determined depending on the geographical location of the object, based on statistical indicators for several previous years.
When a specific month of the heating season ends, the calculated load is recalculated taking into account the average monthly actual temperature.
As users already know, heat meters can be installed both on an entire apartment building and on a separate apartment. In this article, we will consider the question of how to take and transfer the readings of heat meters.
General house heat meter: how to take readings?
Heat metering devices can measure this very heat in different units (for example, megawatts, gigacalories or kilojoules). Most often, heat is measured in gigacalories, since it is in these units of measurement that heat supply organizations calculate and set the price for heating.
A good solution would be to start a separate journal, where the readings of the heat meter will be regularly recorded (see an example below). It is optimal to record information on the last day of each month, when it is already known exactly how much heat has been consumed per month. Keeping such a log will help to control and verify the data of the management company, on the basis of which payments for heat are made to consumers.
At the moment, according to the new rules for accounting for commercial heat, the accounting journal has been canceled. This is due to the fact that modern metering devices can read information from the meter directly, or through a computer or flash drive.
Among the new type of heat meters, there are quite compact models made of special grade steel. The operation of such devices is provided by batteries, the service life of which is 10 years. At the top of the meter there is a screen that displays data regarding energy consumption, as well as the main parameters of a particular heat supply system, such as: flow values (current and instantaneous), information about temperatures, information about the state of the heat meter (including error codes), and also archive information for the previous few months.
It is important to keep in mind that if an old metering device is installed in an apartment building, then at the next verification it will be mandatory to replace it with a new one, but for now you should continue to keep a log of readings. To fill it out correctly, you need to read the meter's instruction manual (maintenance section), which is necessarily attached to each heat energy meter.
Heat meter readings: reading and transmission
Specific readings are displayed on the indicator by pressing the button / buttons on the front panel of the device. For proper submission of information, you will need to remove the following information:
- Thermal energy Q (Gcal, GСal, GJ, MWh);
- The mass of the coolant in the supply pipeline M1 (t);
- Mass of coolant in the return pipeline M2 (t);
- Temperature in the supply pipeline T1 (°С);
- Temperature in the return pipeline Т2 (°С);
- Timer (h).
An example of filling out a log of readings for a heat energy meter
| the date | Amount of heat, Q, Gcal | Heat carrier temperature on the supply pipeline Т1, °С | Heat carrier temperature on the return pipe Т2, °С | The mass of the heat carrier along the supply pipeline M1, t | The mass of the heat carrier along the return pipeline M2, t | Timer h |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| 01.02.17 | 7423.41 | 85,5 | 44,4 | 2521 | 2435 | 1785 |
| 02.02.17 | 7445.87 | 84,1 | 43,2 | 2631 | 2545 | 1809 |
| 03.02.17 | 7456.85 | 80,6 | 42,3 | 2738 | 2659 | 1833 |
| … | … | … | … | … | … | … |
As a rule, meters can also display information about the volume of the coolant (V, m3), both in the supply and return pipelines, however, when filling out the journal, one should indicate the parameter (mass or volume of the coolant) that is determined by the act acceptance into operation of a particular metering device. The heat meter readings are taken every day (exceptions are weekends and holidays), at a certain time, and entered in the appropriate columns of the heat consumption register. Based on this information, a protocol / statement is drawn up for subsequent transfer to the heat supply company within the specified time. This should be done before a specific date, which each heat supplier sets for consumers independently.
Quite often there are cases when persons authorized by consumers to control and take readings from a heating meter make mistakes. In order to ensure the uninterrupted operation of the heat meter and correctly take readings from it, the following rules should be observed:
- It is impossible to entrust taking readings from the heat meter to untrained persons;
- Data collection must be carried out in a timely manner, and then the readings of the heat meter must be transmitted within the established time limits;
- If any malfunctions are noticed in the operation of the heat meter, then this should be immediately reported to the relevant authorities (heat supply and service organizations).
Apartment heat energy meter: how to take and transfer readings correctly?
Readings from apartment heat meters should be taken by analogy with water meters. The only difference is that the heat meters display several indicators on the indicator, and in order to choose the right one, you should carefully read the operating instructions and strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations. After receiving the necessary information, the difference in readings for the previous and reporting periods should be entered into the receipt for payment for thermal energy, multiplied by the tariff established in the region, and the amount received should be paid.
Currently, modern heat meters are equipped with a built-in interface that allows you to read data automatically. For example, the domestic-made Kombik-T counter has a built-in radio antenna, which allows you to take readings from the device even without entering the apartment. It should be noted that a water meter (water meter) with a pulse output can be connected to such a device, which will allow you to take readings of water consumption (hot and cold) also without visual contact. The installation of such metering devices will be a good solution for people who often go on business trips or trips and cannot personally meet the controller who comes to take readings.
Please note that an individual heat meter can only be installed in apartments with horizontal piping and separate heat carrier inlets. In houses where heating systems with vertical wiring are equipped, individual meters are not installed.
From the information provided in this article, we can conclude that the procedure for taking and transmitting readings from heat meters should be treated with a sufficient degree of responsibility.
Reading time: 4 minutes
In accordance with the norms of the law, the owners of square meters in apartment buildings must install meters to calculate payment for services provided centrally, including for heating. The calculation of the amount is not based on averages, but according to actual consumption. For those who installed the meter, it would not be superfluous to clarify how to take readings from the heat meter.
Types of meters for heating
The heat energy meter records and measures the temperature difference, as well as the consumption of heat carriers, using an ultrasonic or tachometric method.
This equipment is categorized as measuring instruments, therefore, it must have the appropriate documents and certification that meets the requirements of the Law of the Russian Federation dated June 25, 2008 No. 102 “On Ensuring the Uniformity of Measurements”.
Manufacturers offer 2 types of household meters:
- budget option - tachometric;
- more expensive - ultrasonic.
Having decided to install a heat meter, the owner needs to order the development of a project that will take into account the technical features of the apartment.
The material will help not to make a mistake in choosing the right device:.
Heat metering devices are divided into industrial and residential. Industrial models are used as general house models.
The cost of purchasing common equipment is shared between the tenants of the house.
In accordance with the provisions of Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation of 05/06/2011 No. 354, the presence of a common house meter will allow you to avoid the cost of paying for heat, which did not even enter the building.
Having figured out how to take readings from the heating meter, each resident of an apartment building can check the correctness of the charges.
The volume of heat consumed is measured in different units:
- megawatts,
- gigacalories,
- kilojoules.
Since supplier companies calculate the amount of heat in gigacalories, it is worth choosing the appropriate measuring device. If the meter measures heat in a different value, the consumer should know that 1 Gcal is equal to 4.18 GJ or 1161.1 kWh.
According to clause 31 of the aforementioned Decree, every month from the 23rd to the 25th, a representative of the resource supplying organization either takes data and enters them into the register of readings of common house meters.
The presence of consumers is not required. But each apartment owner has the right to contact the appropriate organization and get acquainted with the information recorded by the meter.
Taking readings from an individual heat meter
Before taking meter readings, you should carefully read the technical documentation, which contains information about the functional features and rules for servicing the equipment.
As a rule, the counters provide the possibility of visual reading of data using the LCD display.
The obtained power consumption values and temperature data are not used for billing with the service provider, but for consumption control.
Various models provide several user levels, the transition between which is carried out by pressing a button. Several data are displayed on the meter display at once, so you should be careful not to make a mistake in what heat meter readings to submit.
There are also more modern heat meters combined with an automation tool. With their help, you can automatically or remotely read the necessary information.
Storage of readings in the archive
According to clause 37 of Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation of November 18, 2013 No. 1034 “On commercial metering of heat energy, heat carrier”, the heat energy metering unit is equipped with varieties of metering devices that are included in the Federal Information Fund to ensure the uniformity of measurements, have an indelible archive of the main technical characteristics and tuning coefficients.
Information can be displayed on the scoreboard of the counter or on a computer.
In accordance with this normative act (clause 34), all metering devices are equipped with standard protocols, interfaces for remote data collection, they can be equipped with an hourly, daily, monthly and annual reading archiving module:
- heat consumption and total operating time;
- working and idle time;
- temperature in the pipeline.
Remote transmission of readings
Readings of heat meters in the apartment can be transmitted via the Internet. This possibility is fixed by the provisions of the aforementioned Decree No. 1034. For this, metering devices must have the function of using telemetric systems and the corresponding software.
If there is reason to doubt the reliability of the readings and the correct operation of the heat meter, the consumer or heat supply organization has the right to organize an inspection. In the event of disagreement, it is quite possible to initiate an extraordinary verification of the meter.
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Error logging methods
The following factors influence the accuracy of heat meter readings during the calculation:
- readings of temperature sensors;
- flow sensor data when calculating the volume of the coolant;
- the accuracy of processing the received signals.
As a rule, all modern metering devices are equipped with a self-test program that regularly checks the equipment and registers an error if damage is detected. The most common causes of failures:
- lack of food;
- malfunction of the calculator or temperature regime;
- memory corruption.
According to paragraph 89 of Decree No. 1034, in the event of violations, the consumer is obliged to report this to the service organization within 24 hours. After that, an act is drawn up, which is transferred to the heat supply company.
The amount of thermal energy consumed during the period of equipment failure is determined by calculation.
It is legally established that at least once a year the performance of the heat meter should be checked, namely:
- serviceability of each measurement channel;
- the presence of seals and the validity period of verification;
- allowable measurement range;
- characteristics of the heat meter settings.
Conclusion
Any modern heating device can be equipped with a thermostat and set the temperature to suit the needs of the family or the weather, so residents are willing to install meters. This equipment measures the amount of heat consumed based on data on the consumption of hot water, the temperature at the heating system inlet to and outlet from the apartment, and registers data for the day, month or year.
After installing the metering device, apartment owners do not have to worry that they will have to compensate for the supplier's costs or heat losses during transportation.
Instructions for taking readings of the heat meter: Video
Lawyer. Member of the Chamber of Advocates of St. Petersburg. Experience more than 10 years. Graduated from St. Petersburg State University. I specialize in civil, family, housing, land law.
Each heat meter displays data on heat output, flow and temperatures of the heat carrier. Between these data there is a rigid relationship, which is described by a simple formula, knowing any three of the four components of which, you can determine the fourth component.
This algorithm is the basis programs for checking the readings of the heat meter. For verification, you must fill in any three of the four empty cells in the form above. For example, enter data on the flow rate and temperatures of the heat carrier determined from the readings of the heat meter, as a result of the calculation, the value of the instantaneous thermal power corresponding to the specified parameters will be determined. If the calculated heat output coincides with the heat output shown by the heat meter, then the meter calculates the heat consumption - correctly. Well, if the values did not match, it's time to unseal the meter and send it for verification.
The formula for checking the readings of the heat meter:
Q = G (t1 – t2)
Q– instant thermal power, kcal/h
G– mass flow rate of coolant, kg/h
t1– temperature of the heat carrier in the supply pipeline, °C
t2– temperature of the heat carrier in the return pipeline, °C
A heat meter is a device for recording the consumed heat carrier, which is currently very profitable, as it allows you to save money by paying only for the consumed heat, eliminating overpayment.
An important point is the correct choice of the type of device depending on the installation location and design features of the heating network, as well as the conclusion of an agreement with a service organization that will monitor the technical condition of the device.
There are many models of heat meters that differ in design and size, but the principle of how the heating meter works remains the same as on the simplest device that measures the temperature and water flow at the inlet and outlet of the heat supply pipeline. Differences appear only in engineering approaches to solving this issue.
The operation of the heat meter is based on the principle of calculating the amount of heat using data taken from a coolant flow sensor and a pair of temperature sensors. There is a measurement of the amount of water that has passed through the heating system, as well as the temperature difference at the inlet and outlet.
The amount of heat is calculated by the product of the flow rate of water passing through the heating system and the temperature difference between the incoming and outgoing coolant, which is expressed by the formula
Q \u003d G * (t 1 -t 2), gcal/h, in which:
- G is the mass flow rate of water, t/h;
- T1,2- temperature indicators of water at the inlet and outlet of the system, o C.
All data from the sensors are sent to the calculator, which, after processing them, determines the value of heat consumption and records the result in the archive. The value of the consumed heat is displayed on the display of the device and can be taken from any moment.
What affects the accuracy of the heat meter
Techem compact V
A heat meter, like any precision device, has a certain total error when measuring consumed heat, which is the sum of the errors of temperature sensors, a flow meter and a calculator. In apartment accounting, devices are used that have an allowable error of 6-10%. The actual error rate may exceed the base one, depending on the technical characteristics of the components.
The increase in the indicator is determined by the following factors:
- The amplitude of the incoming and outgoing coolant temperature, which less than 30 o C.
- Violations during installation in relation to the requirements of the manufacturer (when installed by an unlicensed organization, the manufacturer withdraws warranty obligations from it).
- Inadequate quality of pipes, hard water used in the coolant, and the presence of mechanical impurities in it.
- When the coolant flow rate is below the minimum value indicated in the technical characteristics of the device.
How is heat consumed measured?
It is customary to calculate the tariff for consumed heat in gigacalories. The unit of measurement refers to non-systemic, and has been traditionally used since the existence of the USSR. Appliances made in Europe calculate the consumed heat in GigaJoules (SI), or a generally accepted international non-systemic unit kWh (kWh).
Types of heat meters
All heating meters available for purchase are divided into the following types:
- Tachometric or mechanical
It measures the amount of coolant that has passed through the section of the pipe using a rotating part. The active part of the device can be screw, turbine or in the form of an impeller.
The devices are affordable and easy to use. The weak side of such devices is sensitivity to dirt and sedimentation inside the mechanism of dirt, rust, and water hammer. For this, a special magnetic mesh filter is provided in the design. Also, the devices are not able to store the data collected per day. 
- Ultrasonic
It is most often used as a general meter in an apartment building. It has varieties:
- frequency,
- temporal,
- doppler,
- correlation.
It works on the principle of generating ultrasound passing through water.
The signal is generated by the transmitter and picked up by the receiver after passing through the water column. Guarantees high measurement accuracy only with sufficient purity of the coolant.
- Electromagnetic
Differs in high accuracy of indications and cost. The operation of the device is based on the principle of passing a magnetic field through the coolant flow, which reacts to its state. The device needs periodic maintenance and cleaning. It consists of a primary converter, an electronic unit and temperature sensors.
- Vortex
It works on the principle of measuring the number and speed of vortices. It is not sensitive to clogging, but reacts to the appearance of air in the system. The device is installed in a horizontal position between two pipes.
How to present evidence correctly
An apartment heat meter is functionally much simpler than a modern mobile phone, but users periodically have misunderstandings about the process of taking and sending display readings.
To prevent such situations, before starting the procedure for taking and transferring readings, it is recommended to carefully study his passport, which provides answers to most questions related to the characteristics and maintenance of the device.
Depending on the design features of the device, data collection is carried out in the following ways: 
- From the liquid crystal display by visual fixation of readings from various sections of the menu, which are switched by the button.
- ORTO transmitter, which is included in the basic package of European devices. The method allows you to display on a PC and print extended information about the operation of the device.
- M-bus module is included in the delivery of individual meters in order to connect the device to the network of centralized data collection by heat supply organizations. So, a group of devices is combined into a low-current network with a twisted pair cable and connected to a hub that periodically polls them. After that, a report is generated and delivered to the heat supply organization, or displayed on a computer display.
- Radio module, supplied with some meters, transmits data wirelessly over a distance of several hundred meters. When the receiver enters the range of the signal, the readings are recorded and delivered to the heat supply organization. So, the receiver is sometimes attached to a garbage truck, which, when following the route, collects data from nearby counters.
Archiving readings
All electronic heat meters store in the archive data on the accumulated indicators of thermal energy consumption, operating and idle time, coolant temperature in the forward and return pipelines, total operating time and error codes.
By default, the device is configured for various archiving modes:
- hourly;
- daily;
- monthly;
- annual.
Some of the data, such as total operating time and error codes, can only be read using a PC and special software installed on it.
Transfer of readings via the Internet
One of the most convenient ways to transfer readings of consumed heat energy to institutions for its accounting is transmission via the Internet. Its convenience and practicality lies in the ability to independently control payments and debts, as well as track heat consumption in different periods without staying in queues and spending a small amount of time.
To do this, you must have a personal computer connected to the network and the address of the website of the controlling organization, as well as the login and password of your personal account, after entering which a form for entering readings will open. To prevent the occurrence of disagreements in the event of a possible failure or malfunction on the site, it is advisable to take “screenshots” of the screen after entering information.
Breakdowns and repairs
Maintenance of the device is limited to maintaining it in working condition, regular inspection, and avoiding causes that cause premature wear and tear. According to paragraph 80 of the Rules for the commercial accounting of the coolant, all maintenance and control of the correct operation of the meter is carried out by the consumer. On the part of the owner, he does not need special care.
The lithium battery or batteries that power the device are not suitable for reuse and should be disposed of if they fail.
If any malfunction in the operation of the metering device is detected, the consumer must notify the service company and the organization providing heat supply within 24 hours. Together with the arrived authorized employee, an act is drawn up, which is then transferred to the heat supply organization with a report on heat consumption for the corresponding period. In case of untimely notification of a breakdown, heat consumption is calculated in a standard way.
The service company will provide services to repair or replace the meter, and may install a replacement device during the repair. The cost of installation and dismantling, repair and other services is regulated by an agreement between the consumer and the service company.
Error logging
As standard, heat meters are equipped with a self-testing system that can detect inaccuracies in operation. The calculator periodically queries the sensors, and if they fail, fixes an error, assigns a code to it and writes it to the archive. The most common reported errors are:
- Incorrect installation or damage to the temperature sensor or flow device.
- Insufficient battery charge.
- The presence of air in the flow path.
- No flow if there is a temperature difference for more than 1 hour.
Removal and installation of the heating meter
Before installing a heating meter in an apartment or apartment building, specialists from specialized companies that have permits for this type of work are invited. Based on the specific situation, they can take on the following obligations:
- Develop a project.
- Submit documents to certain authorities in order to obtain permits.
- Install and register the device. In the absence of registration, payment for the supplied heat is made according to the established tariffs.
- Carry out test tests and put the device into operation.
The developed project should include the following points:
- Type and device of the model, which is designed to work in a particular heating system.
- Necessary calculations for heat load and coolant flow.
- Scheme of the heating system with the installation location of the heat meter.
- Calculation of possible heat losses.
- Calculation of payment for the supply of thermal energy.
Checking heating meters
As a rule, a quality device arrives at the point of sale initially tested. The procedure is carried out at the factory, which is evidenced by a stamp with a record corresponding to the record in the documentation. In addition, the documents indicate the calibration interval.
After this period, the owner of the device must contact the service center of the manufacturer or an organization authorized to check and install the meter. There are companies that, after installing the device, are engaged in its maintenance.
Periodic confirmation of the metrological class, or in a word, verification, is carried out by a specialized company that has pouring installations, as well as a permit issued by the metrological supervision authorities.
The calibration period depends on the type of device, and averages 4-5 years.
For this purpose, a metrologist is called, seals are removed, a specialist from a service organization dismantles the meter and sends it for verification. After checking and reassembly, the device is sealed.
A heating meter is a device for accounting for thermal energy, which allows you to save money by paying only for the actually consumed service. Failure to comply with the conditions below will lead to the inability to pay for heat according to the meter readings.
For the correct and long-term operation of the device, it is important to choose the type of meter, which must be present in the state register of measuring instruments acceptable for use, and also have metrological certification in the appropriate authority.
The device is installed by an enterprise licensed to carry out such work.