What is better: buying a new water meter or having the old one metrologically verified?

When the time comes to verify or replace a water meter, a natural question arises: is it more cost-effective to carry out metrological verification or to install a new water meter?

There is no single answer that applies in every case. However, several clear criteria can help you choose between metrological verification and replacing the existing water meter, so that the decision makes sense both financially and practically.

Why is metrological verification of water meters important?

First of all, it is important to understand that metrological verification of a water meter is not optional. According to current requirements, both cold water meters and hot water meters must undergo verification every 5 years.

The purpose of this procedure is to confirm that each water meter continues to measure consumption accurately. Without valid verification, the recorded readings may no longer be accepted or discrepancies may occur during billing.

The process generally involves removing the water meter, testing it in an authorized laboratory and, if it meets the required parameters, reinstalling and returning it to service.

What happens when a water meter reaches the 5-year verification period?

When the water meter reaches its scheduled verification date, there are two main options:

→ carry out metrological verification of the existing water meter
→ replace it directly with a new water meter

At first glance, verifying the existing meter may seem like the simpler solution. In practice, however, there are additional factors to consider.

If a cold or hot water meter has already been in service for several years, there is a possibility that it may no longer meet the required technical parameters. In this case, even after paying for the verification procedure, you may still need to replace the meter.

Why do many users choose a new water meter?

In recent years, many property owners have chosen to replace their water meters directly, especially when the 5-year verification period is approaching.

The main reason is predictability. With a new water meter, there is no risk of the device failing metrological verification, and a new service period begins from the date of installation.

In addition, modern water meters are designed to provide higher measurement accuracy, improved reliability and compatibility with current metering requirements, whether for cold water or hot water applications.

The real difference in cost

Cost is often the main factor influencing the decision. However, it is important to consider the full process rather than only the price of metrological verification.

In addition to the verification itself, you should also consider the cost of removing and reinstalling the water meter, the waiting time, and the possibility that the meter may fail the verification and still need to be replaced.

When all these factors are taken into account, the difference between verifying an existing meter and purchasing a new water meter may be smaller than it initially appears.

Conclusion

Both metrological verification of an existing water meter and purchasing a new one are valid options. However, considering the requirement for periodic verification and the possibility that an older meter may no longer meet the required technical parameters, replacing it with a new water meter can often be a more practical long-term solution.

Whether you need cold water meters, hot water meters, or additional metering services, the contoare.md team can help you choose a solution suited to your specific requirements.