Q: What is the advantage of using a multi-jet meter as opposed to a PD meter?
A: There are many reasons a Multi-Jet meter may be a better choice than a PD or Positive Displacement type meter. Please read this article for more information (link to Revisiting Measurement Technologies.pdf)

Q: Why does the sweep hand continue to move on the multi-jet when the water is shut off on the meter test bench?
A: Basically, for two reasons.  First, inertia forces in the register mechanism continue the gear train movement in a forward direction taking up all geartrain backlash that had been biased to the other direction by flow driving torque.  Second, inertial forces acting on the rotor diminish very quickly, but do not stop instantly, as they are slowed down by fluid drag; under the same effect, flow driving forces must quickly overcome fluid drag to achieve synchronous rotor speed as flow is initiated. However, these effects are self-canceling under normal use. For testing purposes, the flow should be slowed just as the test is completed for best results.

Q: What happens if there is a build up of deposits on the ports or the impeller? Will the meter speed up and over register?
A: Small deposits almost never affect normal operation. Complete blockage of a port, or severe buildup generally causes a meter to under register in multi-jets, and can cause over-registration in turbines. Any buildup that is sufficient enough to impact meter performance is an indication of problems in water quality and or treatment.

Q: Why has Master Meter recently changed brands for Hand-held Reading equipment?
A: We went to Radix Hand-helds due to the diversity they can offer new and current system users. Radix offers a solution for Radio Read, On-site reading (OSR), existing system compatibilities, and serves to be more useful during meter change-outs. Another factor is they tend to be more rugged.

Q: What are the advantages of Radio Read over Inductive (Touch Read) systems?
A: Mobility and Speed are the greatest reasons. This translates into a lower operational costs. Secondary reasons include all-weather reading, and ability to read difficult access meters.

Q. What is the background of your company
A: See our About Us section.

Q: Where are Master Meter products sold?
A: Throughout North America, please check out our Distributor's section for more information.

Q: What are your warranties?
A: Warranties are expressed according to the distribution channel, service use, and other factors. Please contact your distributor or Master Meter representative for more information.

Q: What is your normal shipping lead time?
A: All orders are shipped on a first-come, first-serve basis. If the item you ordered is in stock, it generally ships on the next business day. If your order is not in stock, expect a typical lead of about two weeks for production. Some items can take longer. If the order is backordered it will ship as soon as possible.

Q: Do you have complete, turnkey systems?
A: Master Meter is not an installation company. However, we can provide the materials and guidance throughout most projects. For instance we often supply meters, electronics, software, integration and training on-site for Wireless Drive-by utility systems. You need only install the components themselves.

Q: I have been told my meter "imploded" how did this happen?
A: Meter registers can be imploded or crushed from inside by excessive water pressure. This usually happens during a sudden spike in pressure resulting from rapidly opening or closing of valves, entrained air, or service disruption upstream of the meter. This does not happen under normal water pressure of up to 150psi. Freezing (and the resulting localized pressure increase) may also cause a register implosion.

Q: My meter is not moving. Why?
A: If water is flowing, but the meter not moving, there is something broken or damaged within the meter, or a foreign object is lodged in the meter internals. The meter will need to be serviced.
Q: Can my meter handle water that contains deposits such as iron or calcium?
A: Master Meters are able to withstand higher concentrations of deposits, particulates and foreign matter better than most other brands. However, poor water quality does eventually contribute to accelerated wear and tear in any device it comes in contact with. Better water quality means better meter performance.

Q: Why does my meter run in reverse?
A: Check the meter while you are using water (open a fixture); if the meter is still running in reverse, the meter is likely installed backward. However, if you only observe the meter moving backward during non-water use, you are likely seeing the effect of rising and falling water pressure and its effect on geartrain backlash.  Also, while there is no net flow, there can be localized wave movements in the pipe that the rotor follows in response to these local  wave movements. This is a normal, self-canceling effect that rarely impacts the total usage.  Severe cases of abrupt pressure changes can cause audible noise called water hammer.  In severe cases of continued reverse direction movement without any open fixtures, a reverse flow check valve or backflow preventer may be needed.

Q: Can a Multi-jet meter be field serviced?
A: Yes. However on some models it may require special tools. Rarely is it feasible to service meters 1" and smaller in the field. Larger meters are easier to do so.

Q: With Dialog Electronics, does your reading wand have to touch the read pad to get the reading?
A: No, you can be up to 1"- 1.5" away to get the reading with your reading wand.

Q: How far away will your radio equipped meters read from where they are installed?
A: Every pit situation is very different --- the make-up of pit materials, surrounding environments, etc influence a radio signal --- so results will vary. Extremes can be from a few feet to more than one mile. The average installation yields perfectly acceptable results.

Q: Do you offer radio products for your fire hydrant meter?
A: The meter can be fitted with a transmitter. However this requires the handle to be removed in some applications.

Q: Can a Compound Meter be tested while it is in service?
A: Yes, they come with a test port on each meter for testing in the field.  Reasonably accurate field testing does require the complete flow isolation of the meter; service is maintained through a by-pass line.

Q. Will I receive a written document on the findings of returned product for repair or warranty?
A: Depending upon the service required, your repairs are logged with explanation. You may request a written explanation however most repairs are approved before service is completed.

Q. My order was shipped 3 days ago, when will it arrive?
A: Most orders are shipped via 'bestway' or by truck. We will choose the fastest method, at the lowest cost to you. Sometimes this method may result in up to 5 business days for shipping. Do not consider weekends as shipping days. The average order is in transit 3 days.

Q. Can we buy direct or do we have to go through distribution?
A. We encourage sales to go through distribution for a number of reasons. Our distributors are required to stock our products for fast, expedited or even emergency shipments. Distributors provide after-sale support for the products they sell. Master Meter will only sell direct when distribution is not available or favorable.

Q: How do I read a water meter?
A: Read the indication on the odometer. See also (link to howtoread.pdf)

Q: Where can I get the specifications on your meters?
A: Please browse the product pages and you will see links to the data sheets.

Q: Will your electronics increment forward if there is backflow?
A: Yes, but only the Electrical Output Register meters are prone to backflow problems. DIALOG and RAMAR products are less likely due to the requirement of at least 3.5 gallons of backflow at any given time. In severe cases exceeding 3.5 gallons, all but the DIALOG 3G products will continue to increment forward.