uppvärmningsmätare

An uppvärmningsmätare, often translated as a heat meter or heat cost allocator, is a device used to measure and distribute heating costs in multi-unit buildings. These devices are typically installed on individual radiators within apartments or commercial spaces. Their primary function is to estimate the heat output of each radiator, thereby allowing for a fair allocation of the total heating expenses for the building.

There are two main types of uppvärmningsmätare. Evaporation meters, which are older technology, use a liquid that evaporates at a rate proportional to the heat emitted by the radiator. The amount of evaporated liquid indicates the heat consumption. More modern devices are electronic. These electronic meters often use sensors to measure the temperature difference between the radiator surface and the ambient room air. This difference, combined with the duration of the heat emission, is used to calculate a consumption value.

The data collected by these meters is then transmitted, either wirelessly or through wired connections, to a central unit or a service provider. This information is used to generate individual heating bills for each unit. The installation and use of uppvärmningsmätare are regulated by specific laws and standards in many countries, aiming to promote energy efficiency and equitable cost distribution among residents. They are a key component in modern building management systems for optimizing energy usage and tenant billing.