Zone run counter

Grallert

Hello. I have a friend how would like to monitor the run or call time of her multiple zones. I remember have this conversation long ago but it's been years. It seems to me there is a simple way to monitor the call time on any or all connected zone to record usage. Is this a thing? thank you for any insight.
M

EBEBRATT-Ed

24 volt or 120 volt time meters are available. I used to buy them from Grainger. Wire it in parallel with the zone valve for 24 volt or with the circulator for 120 volt

Grallert

I'll check this out right now. thank you
M

Sylvain

real usage would need the integration over time of (gpm*deltaT).

interesting video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vnkb9JKohk
There are surely similar products of other brands.
Of course it is more expensive than simply an hour meter.
Simply measuring time has no meaning if the pump flow varies (and if the water temperature varies).

If it is not used for billing purposes, one might make something DIY with some cheap processor and sensors. Flow can be measured by pressure difference.

Grallert

Looks like I found what I need. This is simply to get an idea on which zone calls to most and the longest. Obviously the zone size/heatloss has to be taken into account. A simple electromechanical counter should work.