How to Choose a Single-Phase Smart Meter?

The use of single-phase smart meters is mainly applied to household electricity meters. Generally, household electricity meters are installed by the power department or developers, but in some places, it is necessary to install a single-phase smart meter to calculate the measurement for housing or renting. So, how to choose a single-phase smart meter?

How to Choose a Single-Phase Smart Meter?

Measurement Range Determination

To ensure safe usage in the future, it is necessary to make sure that the current measured by the meter does not exceed the measured value. The configuration of the smart meter single phase needs to be based on power. The current of a single-phase appliance is 4.5A per kilowatt, so the range of the single-phase smart meter should be configured to 1.2-1.5 times the current. If the total power of household appliances is 4KW and the current is 18A, then a 5(20)A single-phase smart meter can be used.

Capacity Determination

The typical voltage specification for a smart meter single phase is 220V, and the current specifications are 1.5(6)A, 5(20)A, 5(60)A, 15(60)A, 20(80)A, etc. The selection of the current specification is mainly based on the user's load. Generally, the upper limit of the load current cannot exceed the rated current of the energy meter, and the lower limit should not be below the load current specified within the allowable error range of the meter. 

For example, if the user's total power consumption is about 10KW, the voltage is 220V, and the current is 10000 ÷ 220 ≈ 46A. This means that considering a certain margin, the current value is about 46A. You can choose the specifications of 5(60) or 15(60)A. You can also choose a smaller current specification and connect it to a current transformer.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Single-Phase Smart Meter

Ensure Quality

Electric meters are nationally mandatory test and measurement instruments. According to the measurement law, the selected electric meter must have a manufacturing metrology device license issued by the provincial or higher technical supervision bureau. From research and development, technological innovation, and production processes to product sales and after-sales service, every step must be strictly checked to pursue excellence and ensure service quality.

Ordinary Meters Are Not Cheap

Currently, many low-priced meters are mostly produced by workshops. Although they are not recognized by the power department, they are still sold in the market due to their low prices. The price of smart meter single phases matches the composition of raw materials.