What is the primary function of an electrical meter?

The primary function of an electrical meter is to measure electrical energy usage. This device quantifies the amount of electricity consumed over a specific period, allowing users and utility companies to track consumption for billing and monitoring purposes. In residential and commercial settings, these meters are typically used to measure energy in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which directly relates to how much electricity is being used by appliances and systems within a building.

Understanding how much energy is consumed is essential for managing energy costs, optimizing efficiency, and making decisions about energy conservation strategies. The data collected by meters can also provide insights into usage patterns, helping to inform whether an upgrade to more energy-efficient systems may be warranted.