The cheapest fuel in Russia today is gas. If you live alone and have only one gas stove, then you can receive monthly bills of up to one hundred rubles. But if there are more people registered in the apartment, and a water heater is used to heat the water, then the bills will increase significantly. After all, tariffs are rising, and the norm is calculated for each person separately.
Therefore, thrifty owners install metering devices. Such a purchase usually pays off within two years, allowing you to pay only for the amount of gas actually consumed. Today, there are models of various types and manufacturers on the market, so it is quite difficult for an untrained person to understand such diversity.
For this article, we have selected the 10 best gas meters that experts recommend for purchase in 2021. With the help of our recommendations, you can choose the most profitable gas meter model. These devices are sold throughout Russia and have good customer reviews and expert recommendations.
Rating of gas meters
Before compiling the TOP, customer reviews were studied and sellers' recommendations were taken into account. The information received helped us choose high-quality and reliable gas meters. To avoid technical inconsistencies in product descriptions, electricians were consulted.
To determine the leaders, an analysis and comparison of the following characteristics was carried out:
- Type – electronic or mechanical;
- Purpose – for household or municipal use;
- Placement – indoors or outdoors;
- Operating temperature range;
- Bandwidth;
- Maximum pressure;
- Life time;
- Test interval;
- Guarantee period;
- Availability of electronic display and thermal corrector;
- Installation – vertical or horizontal;
- Nominal diameter;
- Center distance of fittings;
- Dimensions and weight;
- Materials and design.
Other important selection criteria were ease of use and safety, as well as value for money. More than 20 applicants took part in the testing. After a detailed study of the characteristics of each product and their subsequent comparison, 7 winners were selected who scored the highest scores.
Nominal diameter
How to choose the right diameter
The diameter of the connecting thread of the meters directly depends on the characteristics of the pipe. The issue should be given sufficient attention, since the meanings may differ.
If a gas meter is purchased for an apartment, then you can safely take a device with a diameter of 1/2 inch (15 DN)
. This is a basic solution for a domestic gas pipeline, which is included in the construction standards. Therefore, it is almost impossible to make a mistake.
If the house was built according to an individual project, the diameter may vary. Here, in addition to the standard solution, pipes with a diameter of 1 (25 DN)
or
3/4 (20 DN) inch
. For reliable data, please refer to the project documentation.
If there is a discrepancy in the store, the device will not be accepted back. In accordance with the Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation, it is included in the list of non-food products of good quality that cannot be returned or exchanged for a similar one.
If you have already purchased a meter and the diameter of the connecting thread differs from the parameters of the pipeline, you can use adapters. This will prevent you from purchasing a new device.
Electronic gas meters
Such models are distinguished by high accuracy of readings, long inspection intervals (10-12 years) and service life. They operate silently, are easy to set up, are compact in size and light in weight. When connecting a special device, electronic meters allow you to transfer measurement results to digital media. The Vyborexperta.Ru team carefully studied the characteristics of 12 applicants. Based on effectiveness and reliability, 4 winners were selected.
Betar SGBM-1.6
The gas metering device is designed for domestic use by individual consumers. Its capacity is 1.6 cubic meters. m/h is enough to control the consumption of carbohydrate raw materials in apartments where there is a 4-burner stove with an oven and a gas heater. A lithium battery is used as an energy source (operational life 6-12 years).
The device is equipped with union nuts, thanks to which installation is carried out without additional devices and welding. Horizontal and vertical installation is supported. The presence of a tee in the kit makes it possible to use gas and perform pressure testing during repair or testing of the meter.
The operation of Betar SGBM-1.6 is based on the jet measurement method. This made it possible to achieve maximum design reliability due to the absence of moving parts. The temperature correction function (20°C) allows you to accurately measure fuel consumption, regardless of seasonal temperature.
To record a power outage during operation, the electronic unit has a “calendar” function. The presence of an optocoupler type KRC357NT allows remote reading of readings. By default, an impulse is sent to the external metering network for every 10 liters of gas passed. This setting can be changed if desired.
Advantages:
- Degree of protection – IP 54;
- Low price;
- Intervalidation interval – 12 years;
- Light weight – 0.670 kg and compact dimensions – 70x88x76 mm;
- 2 measuring media: natural and liquefied gas.
Flaws:
- Small numbers on the LCD;
- Expensive replacement battery.
To avoid damage, it is recommended to operate the meter at temperatures from -10 to +50°C. Air humidity should not exceed 95% at a temperature of +35°C.
Elehant SGB-1.8
...My selection criteria when searching for a new counter were: trouble-free operation, compactness and an interesting appearance that would fit perfectly into the overall design of the kitchen. Elehant SGB-1.8 – ideally meets all the desired parameters...
Expert opinion
Jet type device with a nominal flow rate of 1.8 cubic meters. m/h is used to record consumed natural or liquefied gas in domestic conditions. It is distinguished by compact dimensions (110x66x55 mm) and low weight (0.3 kg). This makes it possible to easily place the unit in any tight space.
Installation of Elehant SGB-1.8 is carried out using a bayonet nut, which eliminates the need for gas welding work. Both vertical and horizontal position of the case are supported. In addition to current readings, the device collects and stores measurement results throughout the year.
The advantage of the model is convenient reading of readings. The design provides a display with the function of rotating the image clockwise in 90-degree increments. Built-in backlight for brighter and clearer display. It doesn't irritate your eyes and saves energy, as it only turns on when you press a button.
When determining which gas meter is best to install in an apartment, you should pay attention to its design capabilities. An interesting feature of the model is the presence of a replaceable plastic cover. With its help, you can change the appearance, which will allow you to look harmoniously with any kitchen set. Available in 11 colors: white, black, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, mint, peach and light blue.
Advantages:
- Affordable price;
- Large inter-check interval – 12 years;
- Excellent quality (designed by aviation radio engineers);
- Long service life - 24 years;
- Laconic design.
Flaws:
- Lack of thermal corrector.
Arzamas SGBE-2.4 1/2″
The device is used in private houses and apartments, where the maximum fuel consumption is 2.4 cubic meters. m/h. Vertical or horizontal installation is allowed, which greatly facilitates the visibility of the readings. When installing, the direction of the arrow on the housing must coincide with the gas flow.
The Arzamas SGBE-2.4 1/2″ case is not subject to chips and other mechanical damage, as it is made of durable zinc-aluminum alloy. The design supports changing the colored decorative trim, which will allow you to quickly and inexpensively change the appearance of the unit.
The meter is powered by a lithium battery, the service life of which is from 8 to 12 years. The model has a pulse output that provides remote readings. A temperature correction function is provided to accurately calculate the gas used.
Advantages:
- Protection against dust and water – IP50;
- Average service life – at least 24 years;
- Easy installation;
- Quiet operation;
- Small dimensions – 120x85x82 mm.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
For installation, it is recommended to use gaskets purchased in specialized stores. This will help avoid breakdowns due to poor quality material. Experts advise paying attention to the material PMB GOST 23358-87.
Counter SGM-1.6 1/2″
Unit with a capacity of 1.6 cubic meters. m/h keeps records of used natural and liquefied mixtures with non-aggressive characteristics in domestic conditions. Usually installed in apartments where there are 2 or 4 burner stoves with an oven.
When determining which gas meter is best for small spaces, it is important to consider its compactness. This model is characterized by optimal dimensions - 110x84x82 mm. It can be placed on a horizontal (right, left) or vertical area. The screen can be rotated 350 degrees, which makes reading data much easier.
The SGM-1.6 1/2″ meter is powered by a AA class lithium battery with a voltage of 3.6 V. It should be replaced no earlier than the end of the meter’s service life (12 years). The ambient temperature during operation should be between -10 and +50°C. The presence of a pulse output allows you to connect the device to an external accounting system.
Advantages:
- Clear data display;
- Affordable price;
- Optimal weight – 600 g;
- Easy installation;
- High quality.
Flaws:
- No temperature correction.
For correct operation, it is important to prevent loads on the meter in the form of compression, tension, bending and uneven tightening of fasteners. To do this, you can use compensators or supports.
Direction
Choosing the right direction of gas movement
Another guideline for choosing the best gas meter for an apartment will be the direction of gas flow. This parameter is very important to take into account, since the gas meters themselves are divided into right-handed
and
left-handed
. It is physically impossible to install the equipment the other way around.
To select the device correctly, it is important to clearly understand the installation diagram of the measuring device. On the meter body the direction is indicated by an arrow; compliance with this condition is critical. In a gas pipeline, it is determined by the gas flow; the gas meter indicator must correspond to it.
Mechanical gas meters
Mechanical meters are characterized by high reliability due to their durable housing. The average service life is 25 years. Such models are easy to install and maintain, and are suitable for use in any conditions, including outdoors. The disadvantage of the products is their large size. 10 nominees took part in the testing. 3 winners scored the highest.
Gasdevice NPM G4
The membrane-type product is designed to measure the flow of various non-aggressive gases, including liquefied and natural. The model can be used by both individual consumers and utility companies. The gas meter is suitable for outdoor installation in a private house or apartment. The inter-verification interval is 10 years.
The device with a maximum throughput of 6 cubic meters per hour does an excellent job of taking into account the costs of several gas appliances at the same time (stove, boiler and water heater). It can withstand air temperatures from -40 to +60 °C. For additional protection, the body is coated with a special anti-corrosion compound.
Installation is carried out only in a horizontal position. Depending on the gas flow, you can order a model with a right- or left-hand supply. The manufacturer also provided the ability to choose the presence or absence of a pulse sensor and the sizes of the inlet and outlet fittings.
Advantages:
- Availability of reverse control unit;
- Affordable price;
- Resistance to pressure changes (up to 50 kPa);
- Service life – 20 years;
- Optimal dimensions – 188x163x218 mm.
Flaws:
- Unattractive appearance.
The NPM G4 gas device is characterized by high measurement accuracy, since the sensitivity threshold is 0.002 cubic meters. m/h.
Elster VK-G4T
The membrane meter is designed to account for fuel that is non-aggressive and heterogeneous in chemical composition. It can be used in municipal and household services, where consumption at peak loads does not exceed 6 cubic meters per hour. The model is suitable for outdoor use as it can withstand temperature changes from -25 to +50 °C.
The Elster VK-G4T body is made of durable stamped steel, which prevents mechanical damage and gas leakage. The device is equipped with a temperature compensation mechanism that displays the gas volume consumed, regardless of temperature and pressure.
The device is available in 2 versions - with left and right flow direction. It is also possible to select installation connections to the main pipes (3/4″ or 1/4″). To carry out remote transmission of readings, installation of a low-frequency pulse sensor type IN-Z61 (reed switch) is supported.
Advantages:
- Low noise level;
- Reverse blocking;
- Easy to find on sale;
- Insensitive to gas contaminants;
- Modern design.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
In reviews, buyers note the excellent corrosion resistance of the case. They are also pleased with the long service life (at least 20 years) and the large inspection interval of 8 years.
Gasdevice NPM G2.5
This gas meter is a good option for installation in an apartment or house. It is characterized by a maximum capacity of 4 cubic meters. m/h and is used in housing and communal services and everyday life. The device does an excellent job of taking into account fuels in the form of cracked gas, hydrocarbon mixtures, air, acetylene, as well as natural and liquefied gas.
The Gasdevice NPM G2.5 model can be connected to systems with left-hand direction of fuel flow. It is characterized by high measurement accuracy. The sensitivity threshold varies from 0.0032 to 0.008 cubic m/h. If desired, the product can be equipped with a pulse sensor.
The device has a light weight (1.6 kg) and optimal dimensions (188 x 163 x 112 mm), which makes it convenient for transportation and maintenance. To prevent rust, the body is coated with an anti-corrosion compound. The device can be operated at air temperatures from -40 to +60 °C.
Advantages:
- Presence of a reverse blocking mechanism;
- Service life – 20 years;
- Stable operation throughout the entire operational period;
- Resistance to pressure surges (up to 80 kPa);
- Warranty period – 3 years;
Flaws:
- Unattractive design.
Optionally, this product is equipped with 1/2″, 3/4″ or 1″ adapters and filters.
The best manufacturers
Having found out how much a gas meter of one type or another costs, they determine which company’s device is best installed in an apartment, house or enterprise. In all cases, experts recommend buying in stores or ordering online devices from the world's best manufacturers. This approach will allow you to obtain a high-quality device that will work properly and provide accurate data.
Popular manufacturers:
- Betar (RF);
- Elehant (RF);
- Dio Tech (RF);
- Counter (RF);
- Elster (Germany);
- Turbulence-DON (RF);
- BelOMO (Belarus);
- Gazdevice (RF);
- Grand (RF);
- Metrix (Poland).
How to choose a gas meter
If the meter is installed outdoors, it is important to pay attention to the presence of a thermal corrector. It helps measure actual fuel consumption, which is independent of pressure and temperature. For convenient use in an apartment, display backlighting will be useful. It will allow you to clearly see data in hard-to-reach places.
Type
Electronic instruments are relevant for those who value high measurement accuracy, compact size, attractive design and silent operation. Mechanical ones are an excellent solution for heavy loads. They have a simple design and are easy to install.
Purpose
For domestic use in apartment conditions, electronic meters with a capacity of up to 2-4 cubic meters are suitable. m/h. For private houses and housing and communal services, it is better to purchase mechanical ones that can withstand loads of up to 6-10 cubic meters. m/h and significant changes in air temperature (from -40 to +60 °C).
Size
Compact models (about 70x88x76 mm) are suitable for apartments. They can be installed behind the refrigerator or stove. It is advisable to choose products with an image rotation function, this will greatly simplify reading the readings. Larger devices (about 188x163x112 mm) are an excellent solution for installation outdoors or in large rooms.
Nominal flow
This is the standard volume of fuel consumed in 1 hour, at which the meter functions normally for a long time. You can find out this device parameter by the marking, where G1.6, G2.5, G4, G6 and G10 correspond to the nominal flow rate of 1.6, 2.5, 4, 6 and 10 cubic meters. m/h.
Flow direction
Meters are manufactured with a specific direction of fuel flow: from right to left or from left to right. Basically, all devices have an arrow indicating the direction of movement. This parameter must be taken into account before purchasing, otherwise installation of the device will be problematic or impossible.
What to look for when choosing a gas meter?
Gas consumption meters will help you monitor utility costs in domestic and industrial settings. Gas meters are classified into 3 groups:
- household;
- utilities;
- industrial.
The most popular types include:
- membrane - the operating principle is to supply gas through two membranes, but they are large compared to other types;
- rotary - a small counter that has a large throughput.
In addition, it is worth paying attention to such a parameter as throughput. It comes in two types: G4 and G6. The first type is used in cases where the main consumer of the resource is a gas stove or water heater. The second type is installed in private houses where autonomous heating is equipped.
Which gas meter is better?
Which gas meter is better largely depends on the operating conditions and the load applied:
- For an apartment with a 4-burner stove and oven, Betar SGBM-1.6 is suitable.
- If beautiful design and functionality are your priorities, then the best option would be to purchase Elehant SGB-1.8.
- Under operating conditions that involve mechanical damage, you should pay attention to Arzamas SGBE-2.4 1/2″.
- For a small room, the SGM-1.6 1/2″ counter with a screen rotation function is suitable.
- If peak loads of devices exceed 4 cubic meters per hour, then the best solution would be to purchase Gasdevice NPM G4 or Elster VK-G4T.
- For those who have gas systems with left-hand flow, Gasdevice NPM G2.5 is suitable.
Installing gas meters is an excellent opportunity to save money and optimize fuel consumption. The main thing is to choose a high-quality device with a reliable design, good throughput and functionality. The products presented in the rating meet these criteria.
Conclusions on the topic
We would like to draw your attention once again: consult with specialists when choosing a metering device. The gas meter should work properly for decades, so take this issue seriously. In addition, this is also a safety issue - a device of inadequate quality can cause a gas leak.
IMPORTANT!
Self-installation of a gas meter is strictly prohibited! Gas work can only be carried out by employees of specialized organizations, for example, GAZ Exploitation. You can submit a request for installation or replacement of a meter by phone (the call is free).
Bottom line
A gas meter helps you save natural gas and take a more conscious approach to its use. It is important that the device itself shows correct data and accurately records the result. A good device must be highly reliable in order to cause the owner a minimum of hassle with checking and replacement.
The gas supply organization will help you select the ideal unit, and you must contact it before installation.
Do you have a gas meter installed in your apartment? Does it help you save?
Top 5. Turbulence-DON Grand-1.6
Rating (2021): 3.62
The Grand-1.6 gas meter is a membrane household measuring device that is distinguished by its simplicity, quality and affordable cost. Many users appreciated not only the accuracy of measurements and ease of installation, but also the design of the gas meter. It is compact, modern and comes in three colors. In accordance with technical information, the device is verified once every 12 years, but in practice this is not the case. The meter is volatile and equipped with a battery, the latter runs out on average in 5 years. After its replacement (like any other intervention), an extraordinary verification is required.
Characteristics:
1990 rub. / Russia / Size G-1.6, service life 24 years
Verification and replacement period
Accuracy testing frequency and service life
The first thing I would like to draw your attention to is that the calibration interval begins from the date of manufacture, and not from the moment of purchase or installation of the device. Therefore, we advise you to pay attention to the release date
specific model.
The service life of gas meters is on average 20-25 years
. But the value declared by the manufacturer is calculated for ideal operating conditions, but in practice this period is shorter. The need for replacement is determined by a specialist at the time of verification.
Check intervals
The accuracy of instruments is determined by its type. Thus, a membrane device is checked once every 8-15 years (more accurate information is available in the accompanying documents). The rotary meter needs verification most often - the procedure is performed every 2-5 years. The electronic device is serviced once every 10-12 years.
In this connection, we advise you to choose the one that was manufactured later from two identical models. You should also give preference to membrane or electronic gas meters; they cause the least hassle in maintenance.
Location
Where will the gas meter be installed?
In accordance with the rules, a gas meter can be installed both indoors and outdoors. The latter is relevant for private houses.
Choosing a room
device, it is important to take into account the throughput, location, direction of gas movement and noise level. According to experts, the presence of a thermal corrector for a gas meter used in an apartment is completely unjustified. As a rule, a room with good ventilation has a stable temperature regime.
Street choice
meter is practically no different from a room meter. Except that in this case the presence of a temperature compensator is necessary. The absence of a sensor will lead to incorrect recording of gas flow and distortion of measurement results due to temperature changes. Without this addition, consumption will be underestimated in winter, and overestimated in summer. But it should be noted that the presence of such a function affects the cost of the device. A meter with a temperature compensator is distinguished by the letter “T” at the end of the marking and is more expensive.
