What type of meter is most common for individual service lines?

Positive displacement meters are most common for individual service lines because they accurately measure the flow of water in residential and small commercial applications. These meters work by capturing a specific volume of water as it flows through the meter. As water enters the meter, it moves a piston or diaphragm, which then causes the meter's register to record the flow. This design ensures that even at low flow rates, such as when a household might only be using a small amount of water, the meter still provides precise readings.

This type of meter is particularly advantageous for billing purposes as it can reliably measure water consumption over various flow rates and pressures. The enduring use of positive displacement meters in individual service lines reflects their proven performance and reliability in accurately reflecting consumers' water use.

Additionally, while magnetic, turbine, and Coriolis meters serve important roles in specific applications, they are less common in the context of individual service lines. Magnetic meters typically require a certain flow velocity for accurate measurements and are often used in larger pipes or industrial applications. Turbine meters can be very efficient but may not perform well at low flow rates, making them less suited for residential service. Coriolis meters, while highly accurate, are more often used in specialized industrial applications due to their complexity and