The cost of electricity increases every year, which is why the majority of citizens are actively interested in possible ways to save. One of the most effective and at the same time simple ways to achieve a reduction in electricity bills is to install a three-tariff electricity meter.
What is a multi-tariff system
To motivate citizens to consume more evenly, a special multi-tariff system was introduced, in which the cost of electricity consumed changes depending on when it is used. In a three-tariff electricity meter, tariff time is divided into three categories: peak, day and night. The maximum cost in this case is provided for the peak time.
What is the difference between counters
The design of two-tariff and three-tariff devices provides for the accounting of consumed kilowatts, depending on when they are used by the consumer. Thus, by switching on the equipment during the day, night and peak times for the same time, a person will see a different speed of the equipment.
At the same time, such counters are distinguished by a more complex design and have a higher cost. They are recommended to be installed only if the house really consumes a lot of electricity: powerful equipment is installed like air conditioners, electric heating sources, boilers and other household appliances. The more such devices in the house, the faster the three-rate electric meter will pay for itself.
Two-tariff devices have a simpler operation, but at the same time provide their owner with less opportunities for savings, since they have only two available consumption options - day and night. Three-rate meters use specialized software.
The main difference between three-rate accounting is taking into account peak periods of time:
- 7:00-10:00
- 20:00-23:00
At peak times, the equipment increases the cost of electricity by approximately one and a half times, and at night it decreases several times. Therefore, when installing such a counter, you should use powerful equipment mainly at night, which is especially convenient if the equipment is equipped with special timers.
Advantages and disadvantages of three-rate meters
- Significant savings in energy costs due to competent consumption at the right time, as well as in the presence of a large number of powerful appliances in the house.
- Energy companies are interested in using multi-tariff meters and periodically even help consumers with their installation by providing material support.
- The results of consumption are recorded in the device memory and remain there throughout the entire period of its operation. Even if the user accidentally loses the receipt, this will not be a serious problem for him.
However, the installation of three-rate meters has some disadvantages:
- Not always people can use the equipment they need at night.
- The use of equipment at night is not always justified.
- The peak time was chosen for a reason, because it is during this period that people most often need electricity most.
- Tariffs are determined by the energy company and may change at any time. It is important to keep track of all these adjustments. If in the end the company completely abandons the use of multi-tariff metering, the installation of such equipment will become meaningless.
It is worth weighing all the pros and cons before making the final decision on installing a three-rate meter, so that in the end it really turns into a noticeable saving for the owner.
Which counter to choose
The three-tariff device allows for savings due to the presence of a peak zone and daytime. Their use is extremely beneficial for people who work at home at night, as well as businesses that may be engaged in their activities during this time. This choice is not recommended for families with children.
A two-tariff meter in any case provides a person with benefits, since the maximum permissible cost of a kilowatt in it corresponds to the usual tariff.
Installation instructions
It is necessary to draw up a detailed calculation, which will take into account the amount of electricity consumed in the house and its structure. It is necessary to understand what proportion of the consumed electricity is required by the devices at a certain time.
For example, a washing machine can be programmed for night use, and heating without a centralized connection is needed almost around the clock, especially in the morning and in the evening.
If, according to the results of the calculations, it became clear that the installation of a three-tariff meter would lead to real benefits, you need to proceed as follows:
- Find out if the house is using a three-phase power supply network.
- Submit an application to the territorial division of the energy supply service at the place of residence, in which you indicate your desire to replace the meter, as well as specify the address, method of payment and contact phone number.
- Draw up an agreement on the use of individual payment for services, as well as on the installation of a multi-tariff meter in the house.
- Wait for specialists who come to the site and install all the necessary equipment.
- Pay the invoice for the work performed.
The purchase of an electric meter should be carried out even before an agreement is signed with the power supply service on the transition to an individual system of payment for services. After the entry into force of the new tariffs, the meter will be installed along with all the necessary seals, which, in accordance with the current legislation, can only be removed by an authorized representative of the company supplying electricity.
