Apparent Losses Caused by Water Meter Inaccuracies at Ultralow Flows

Although meter accuracy has been addressed in the past as a potential cause of apparent water loss, the lack of significant data on meter accuracy at low flows has caused losses at these flow rates to be largely ignored. This article provides average low-flow accuracies of different meter types and outlines two methods for estimating apparent losses caused by meter inaccuracy at low flows. By estimating apparent losses and resulting decreases in revenues, utilities can gain a better understanding of the real consequences of meter inaccuracy at low flow rates. Stopping nonrevenue water loss attributable to meter inaccuracy can result in substantial short-term increases in utility revenue. Furthermore, meters that accurately record water across the entire range of flow rates lead to more equitable customer billing. In light of these benefits as well as increased system efficiency, utilities may want to make low-flow accuracy a key consideration in selecting meters for initial installation or replacement