How to choose a single-phase prepaid energy meter?
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1、 Current specifications
The current specification of a single-phase prepaid energy meter needs to be selected based on the actual electricity load. Common specifications such as 5 (60) A are suitable for residential users and rental housing, and can cover the total power requirements of daily appliances such as televisions, air conditioners, refrigerators, etc. For example, if the total power of household appliances is 8kW (approximately 36.4A), selecting the 5 (60) A specification is sufficient, which not only meets the current demand but also reserves expansion space. If blindly choosing larger specifications (such as 10 (100) A), although it can cope with higher loads, it will increase procurement costs and may lead to measurement errors due to long-term low loads.
2、 Communication method
The communication method should be selected based on the installation scenario:
RS485 wired communication: suitable for scenarios where electricity meters are installed in a centralized manner (such as stairwells in rental rooms), a concentrator can remotely read data from 32 electricity meters, reducing wiring costs.
4G/NB IoT wireless communication: suitable for scenarios where electricity meters are installed in a decentralized manner (such as shops), no wiring is required, and the meter can be hung and used immediately, but signal coverage and traffic costs need to be considered.
Far infrared communication: suitable for short-range data reading, such as regular property inspections.
3、 Functional requirements
Select functions based on usage scenarios:
Time of use billing: If you need to charge separately during peak and off peak periods, you need to choose a meter that supports multiple rate periods
Malignant load recognition: In scenarios such as school dormitories, it is necessary to prevent the use of high-power electrical appliances. An electric meter with this function can be selected to automatically cut off the power supply of illegal electrical appliances.
Remote control: Business users need to remotely monitor their electricity usage, and can choose an electricity meter that supports 4G/NB IoT communication to achieve functions such as mobile app payment and overdue reminder.
4、 Brand Quality
Priority should be given to well-known brands whose products have passed mandatory national certifications such as CPA and ISO, and possess high-precision measurement, low power consumption, and strong anti-interference capabilities. Adopting high-precision chips, with small errors, and supporting dust-proof and high-temperature resistant designs, it is suitable for harsh environments.
5、 Technical indicators
Accuracy level: The higher the accuracy level of the electricity meter (such as level 1 being better than level 2), the more accurate the measurement. When purchasing, it is necessary to check the level identification on the meter dial.
Power consumption: Low power meters can reduce their own energy consumption, making long-term use more economical.
Safety: It is necessary to have waterproof, fireproof, and anti electric shock functions to ensure electrical safety.
6、 After sales service
Choose a brand that provides comprehensive after-sales service, including on-site installation, maintenance, technical consultation, etc.
