Off-the-Shelf Accuracies of Residential Water Meters

The accurate measurement of potable water by metering is a viable approach to conserving water resources and encouraging responsible water use. When utilities meter water and water consumers become accountable for their water use, consumers typically become more efficient with their water use. For this reason, water metering has become an important tool in water conservation and in billing consumers fairly. However, many of the residential water meters being used in the United States do not meet AWWA accuracy standards. This study provides a common reference for accuracy by investigating all 5/8 x 3/4-, 3/4-, 1-, 1 1/2-, and 2-in. meters available in the United States by comparing them with the corresponding AWWA standard for cold-water meters. Although specific manufacturers are not named, this research shows the need for greater quality control by manufacturers and a great stewardship by utilities to ensure that the meters they are installing meet AWWA standards