The volume of water used by a residential or business facility supplied with public water is measured using a device known as a water meter. Water metes can also be used to monitor  flow of water at specific locations in the system to detect abnormal conditions. Water meter readings are the responsibility of the water company, however customers are encouraged to check the meter themselves to verify that their bills are accurate.

Here are three of the most common types of water metering devices:

Velocity Water Meters (A.K.A. Inferential Water Meters)

Water flow velocity is measured using velocity water meters, which is then translated to volume to get a water usage number. There are many types of velocity water meters, the most common are: multi-jet, compound, and turbine.

• Multi-jet meters are commonly found in small commercial and residential settings, and they use numerous ports to send various water jets into an impeller. The impeller’s rotation speed is affected by the velocity of the water. Their use is very limited in North America.
• Turbine meters are less accurate than jet meters because they do not restrict the course of water flow. Large commercial organizations and fire departments frequently use these meters.
• Compound water meters are made by combining two meters. One is used to measure high to very high flow rates and the other one is used to measure low and very low water flow rates with precision. Most of these meters use a combination of a large turbine meter and a small positive displacement meter.

Positive Displacement Water Meters

To measure the volume of water consumed, positive displacement water meters use water to physically move or “displace” a measuring element. These meters are very accurate when utilized with low or moderate flow rates from small business or residential buildings.

Electromagnetic Water Meters

Electromagnetic water meters, also known as magnetic flow meters, use electromagnetic measuring elements to determine the velocity of water. Water meters of this sort can often measure water flow in both directions, making them ideal for measuring untreated water, as well as wastewater.

To learn more about the Avanti Company and the services and products we provide, including industrial meters, please visit us online or call us at 800.284.5231.