Smart Water Meters: What They Are & How They Work

Imagine checking your water usage in real-time, detecting leaks instantly, and even reducing your bill – all from your smartphone. This isn’t a futuristic fantasy, it’s the reality with smart water meters, the latest innovation transforming water management for individuals and utilities alike. These sophisticated smart devices, equipped with advanced sensors and communication modules, are revolutionizing the way we measure, monitor, and manage water consumption. In this post, we will cover smart water meter technology, and briefly cover how ultrasonic water technology works. 

What is a smart water meter? 

The smart water meter is an IoT technology-based device that records water consumption data and transfers it remotely to both the main utility provider and customers. Utilizing ultrasonic technology for measurement ensures highly accurate metering, streamlining the billing process for all parties involved. Additionally, the smart water meter serves as the cornerstone of an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) solution, eliminating the need for manual meter readings. This automation leads to significant cost savings on labor, transportation, fuel, and insurance claims, thereby reducing overall operational expenses. 

Ultrasonic smart water meters are the cornerstone of an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) solution, eliminating the need for manual meter readings while leveraging advanced technology to provide additional functionality such as leak detection. This automation leads to significant cost savings on labor, transportation, fuel, and insurance claims, thereby reducing overall operational expenses.

How does a smart water meter work

A smart water meter operates by monitoring water usage via advanced technology such as ultrasonic measurement, delivering precise measurements of water consumption. Smart water meters function according to various and diverse operating principles. We will consider two of the more common options: mechanical and ultrasonic smart water meters. 

Mechanical smart water meters function like a traditional mechanical water meter, but with additional communications capabilities (which are often retrofitted). A turbine or gears spin with the flow of the water, and this rotation is translated into a readable number on the display. 

In contrast, ultrasonic smart water meters use sophisticated ultrasonic technology to measure water flow using ultrasounds. Mechanisms of action include measuring the time taken for sound waves to pass through a pipe or measuring the effect of ultrasounds on any impurities in the water. Ultrasonic smart water meters are purpose-built as modern IoT devices with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency.

Smart water meters automatically take readings and transmit them remotely using wireless technology, ensuring continuous and precise data availability around the clock. Consequently, consumers can access almost real-time water consumption data in their mobile app, empowering them to manage their water usage effectively and fostering a transparent billing system.

How to Read a Smart Water Meter

Unlike with traditional water meters, which require physical meter readings, smart water meters can be read remotely. Your smart meter will usually automatically send its readings directly to your water supplier, but you can also check them yourself.

Smart meters generally have an on-device digital display that shows readings and, where applicable, error codes. Although readings can usually be taken by looking at the electronic display on the meter itself, it’s usually unnecessary — the “smart” part of a smart water meter means it can communicate with other devices.

Because smart water meters can communicate with other devices, many can be read using in-home displays. However, many also have dedicated end-user apps that allow users to see their readings in near real-time from their mobile phones or other compatible devices.

Smart Water Meters Benefits That Matter 

Smart water meters offer a range of benefits that extend well beyond mere convenience. Let’s explore the significant advantages they provide for consumers, utility companies, and the environment: 

Enhanced Leak Detection: Traditional water meters often struggle to promptly identify leaks, resulting in undetected water loss and financial strain. Smart water meters, on the other hand, utilize advanced algorithms capable of detecting even the smallest irregularities in flow patterns. This enables swift detection not only of leaks but also bursts and overflows, minimizing water wastage and associated costs. 

Transparent Consumption Insights: Gone are the days of relying on estimated bills. Smart water meters provide users with almost real-time, comprehensive data on their water consumption. Accessible through user-friendly platforms, this data empowers individuals to analyze usage patterns, pinpoint areas for improvement, and make informed decisions to optimize water conservation efforts. 

Remote Management Efficiency: Smart meters eliminate the need for manual meter reading, a time-consuming and resource-intensive process for utility companies. By wiressly transmitting data to a centralized network, these smart meters enable remote monitoring and management, streamlining operations and potentially reducing costs for both utilities and consumers. 

Sustainable Water Management: In the face of increasing water scarcity, every drop counts. Smart water meters actively promote responsible water use by offering actionable insights and encouraging conservation efforts. This leads to a significant reduction in non-revenue water loss for utilities and empowers individuals to contribute to a more sustainable future for this vital resource. 

Delving into Ultrasonic Technology: The Core of Precision in Smart Water Meters 

Among the various technologies driving the smart water revolution, ultrasonic meters stand out for their exceptional accuracy and no impact on water flow. Unlike traditional mechanical meters with their moving parts, ultrasonic meters employ high-frequency sound waves to measure water velocity within pipes. Imagine a tiny sonic submarine traversing the water stream, its sound waves experiencing subtle shifts in speed based on flow rate. These minute changes are meticulously measured by the meter, translating them into precise flow data – all without physical contact or friction. This non-intrusive approach minimizes pressure loss and ensures unmatched accuracy, often exceeding international standards by a significant margin. Moreover, sophisticated algorithms analyze the sound wave data, enabling advanced leak detection, burst, overflow capabilities. Even the tiniest anomalies in flow patterns are identified, empowering users to address leaks promptly and prevent water waste. This inherent precision and leak detection prowess make ultrasonic technology a cornerstone of smart water meters, driving a new era of responsible and informed water management. 

Within the realm of ultrasonic smart water meters, Axioma Metering emerges as a leading name synonymous with innovation and exceptional performance. Their commitment to cutting-edge technology is evident in their meters consistently surpassing industry standards for accuracy, exceeding ISO requirements by a significant margin. This translates to unparalleled precision in capturing even the minutest changes in flow, ensuring you pay only for the water you use. 

Axioma’s advanced algorithms, specifically designed for ultrasonic data analysis, enable exceptional leak detection capabilities. Even the subtlest anomalies in flow patterns are identified and flagged instantly, empowering you to address leaks promptly and prevent water waste. This proactive approach translates to significant cost savings and fosters responsible water management. 

Furthermore, Axioma prioritizes data-driven insights, providing user-friendly platforms and applications for comprehensive consumption analysis. By visualizing your water usage patterns in real-time, you gain a deeper understanding of your habits and identify areas for potential conservation efforts. This empowers you to make informed choices and contribute to a more sustainable future. 

Communication protocols for smart water meters 

Communication technologies have evolved from one-way transmission of measurement data into bi-directional communication between the meter and the head-end system (HES). The emergence of new standards and protocols has created opportunities for water suppliers to integrate smart devices into utility infrastructures, resulting in improved service quality and overall water conservation solutions. 

LoRaWAN (low-power wide-area networking) networks offer several benefits for smart metering applications. Firstly, LoRaWAN technology provides long-range communication capabilities, allowing smart meters to transmit data over several kilometers without the need for extensive infrastructure. This extended range reduces the number of base stations required for network coverage, resulting in lower deployment costs. Additionally, LoRaWAN devices operate on low power, enabling smart meters to operate on battery power for years without frequent replacements. This low power consumption also contributes to cost savings and environmental sustainability. Moreover, LoRaWAN networks offer secure communication protocols, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of metering data. With its scalability and flexibility, LoRaWAN technology enables utilities to efficiently manage and monitor smart meters remotely, improving operational efficiency and customer service. Overall, LoRaWAN networks provide a reliable, cost-effective, and secure solution for smart metering in diverse environments. 

NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) communication networks offer many advantages for smart metering applications, including wide coverage and scalability. Leveraging existing cellular infrastructure, NB-IoT networks provide reliable communication across various environments, facilitating efficient data transmission between smart meters and utility providers. Additionally, the low power requirements of NB-IoT devices contribute to extended battery life, reducing maintenance costs and enhancing operational efficiency. However, there are also some challenges associated with NB-IoT technology. Dependence on cellular coverage may limit connectivity in remote or underground locations, leading to potential gaps in data transmission. Moreover, adopting NB-IoT technology can result in vendor lock-in, limiting flexibility in hardware and software choices for utility companies. Despite these drawbacks, NB-IoT networks remain a promising solution for modernizing utility infrastructures and improving smart metering processes, although with careful consideration of these challenges during deployment and management.

Smart Water Meter Prices

Prices for smart water meters vary significantly depending on a number of factors including brand, model, type, commercial or residential use, project requirements and complexity. More fully-featured smart water meters are usually more expensive than basic ones, e.g. a smart meter with advanced leak detection will usually be more expensive than one with only basic flow/volume tracking.

Individual unit prices generally range from $100 to upwards of $2000 (much more in some specific cases). Typically, ultrasonic and electromagnetic smart water meters are more expensive than mechanical/turbine based meters — but they are also more accurate, precise, and require less maintenance. For example, the cost of one of our Axioma W1 Qalcosonic Ultrasonic Smart Water Meter in California could be around $175, still the price relies on many factors. 

Unit cost is an important factor, but it’s vital to consider other costs such as installation or platform integration costs — and ongoing subscription costs. Installation can be a significant additional up-front cost. However, these costs are usually mitigated by the long-term value provided by smart water meters: savings from reduced water loss, improved billing accuracy, reduced maintenance when using low-maintenance ultrasonic smart water meters, and early leak detection add up. 

When considering cost, it’s always best to consider the cost of the entire package — units, installation, integration, ongoing subscriptions — holistically and then balance that against any savings from efficiency, reduced maintenance, and losses, etc., to find the true cost.

Let’s compare smart water meter vs. mechanical water meter 

	Smart Water Meter	Regular Water Meter
Principle of operation	Utilizes ultrasonic technology to measure water flow	Operates based on mechanical gears and dials, turbine or a piston
Accuracy	Offers higher accuracy due to its advanced technology	May degrade over time due to mechanical wear and buildup of debris or minerals in the meter
Maintenance	Less maintenance since it has no moving parts that can wear out periodic calibration may be necessary to maintain accuracy.	Scheduled technician visits according to government regulations (every 2-5 years)
Data Collection	Remote, almost real-time data.	Manual reading, usually done by a customer once a month.
Leak Detection	Quick detection	No detection
Costs	Initial cost tends to be higher due to the advanced technology involved. However, savings can be realized over time through improved accuracy, reduced water loss from leaks, and lower maintenance costs.	Lower initial cost but may incur higher long-term costs due to maintenance, manual reading, and potential inaccuracies leading to revenue loss for utilities.
Durability	More durable as it has no moving parts prone to wear and tear.	Susceptible to damage from debris in the water, temperature fluctuations, and physical wear on moving parts, which can lead to degradation in performance and accuracy over time.
Mounting Orientation	Any angle	According to specific instructions

Smart Water Meter Installation

Smart meters are usually installed by utility providers or licensed professionals who are able to deal with any unexpected issues that may arise during installation — and who have the requisite professional qualifications and certifications to do so safely and according to national, state, and local laws.

Installation generally requires some set up such as shutting off water, although the extent of preparatory work depends on various factors including the complexity of the installation and the size and extent of the work necessary. Although residential and commercial installations are similar in theory, they have a number of key differences, including:

Installation time varies depending on the size, complexity, and scale of installation — it’s hard to give any general figures. And it’s something that should never be rushed, as to gain the full benefits of accurate data collection and advanced leak detection, your meter system requires proper setup. This includes full network setup, whether you’re using LoRaWAN, NB-IoT, or similar communications frameworks. If applicable, any end-user apps like the Axilink Lite app need to be connected properly to their meters too.

Installation costs can vary by state, region, and company. In California, installation of our Mainlink and Axioma Metering system could cost around $75 per unit. In a typical 200-unit apartment building in CA, installing our system and meters can cost around $30,400 compared with traditional setups that cost around $54,400.

Conclusion: 

Smart water meters bring many benefits for water suppliers: cost reduction in water loss, insurance claims, transportation, and overall operational efficiency, providing reliable infrastructure that saves time and brings peace of mind. 

While choosing the right smart meter could be overwhelming, contact us for a professional consultation. Each business case is different, and we believe that we can find a well-suited solution for you.