All of the meters register the total flow and most modern designs register both rate and volume. When buying a meter, be sure to check the installation requirements. If your particular situation does not meet all of the requirements the meter should be calibrated in place. Checking the meter by another means or with a calibrated meter is desirable. It is also important to have parts and maintenance service available.
Local service is best, but convenience and speed are the elements that count.
Water meters vary in size, quality and design. Meter size should be determined by the size of the pipe, the range of flow to be measured, and the head loss characteristics. The manufacturer should provide this information in a manner similar to the chart on the next page. The meter must accommodate the expected range of flows, and the lowest anticipated flow should fit within the normal accuracy of the meter. It is also desirable to select a size that will not create excessive head loss.