Power Meter FAQ
General Information
Q: What is the Balco Power Meter used for?
A: It monitors and calculates the electricity usage and costs of household appliances. It measures voltage, current, wattage, frequency, power factor, time, kWh, and cost.
Q: What comes in the box?
A:
-
Power Meter
-
User guide
-
Warranty card (not pictured)
Q: What are the main parts?
A:
-
LCD display
-
Cost button
-
Function button
-
Power socket
-
Reset button
-
Up/Down buttons
Setup & Operation
Q: How do I set up the Power Meter for first use?
A:
-
Plug the Power Meter into a wall outlet to charge the internal battery for ~30 mins.
-
Set the time, currency, and tariff before use.
-
Plug the appliance into the Power Meter socket and switch on.
-
The meter will now track energy usage.
Q: How do I reset the Power Meter?
A: Insert a small object (e.g., paperclip) into the Reset button until the screen flashes.
Q: How do I connect an appliance?
A: Plug the Power Meter into a mains socket → plug your appliance into the Power Meter’s socket → switch on.
Display & Functions
Q: What information can I view on the display?
A:
-
TIME: Real-time clock / total running time
-
COST: Energy cost (daily, yearly, total)
-
ENERGY: Real-time watts, kWh, volts, amps, Hz, PF, max watts
Q: How do I set the time?
A:
-
Hold UP button → enter setup.
-
Use Function to select digits.
-
Adjust with UP/DOWN.
-
Press COST to confirm.
Tariffs & Cost Calculation
Q: Can it calculate energy costs?
A: Yes. Enter your electricity tariff(s) into the device. It supports both single tariff and dual tariff modes.
Q: How do I set a single tariff?
A:
-
Hold COST (3s) → currency flashes.
-
Select currency ($, £, €, Kr, R).
-
Choose TARIFF 1.
-
Enter your rate (from your bill).
-
Confirm with COST.
Q: How do I set dual tariffs (peak/off-peak)?
A:
-
Hold COST (3s) → currency flashes.
-
Choose DUAL TARIFF.
-
Set start time for Tariff 1, then Tariff 2.
-
Enter rate for each tariff.
-
Confirm with COST.
Technical Specifications
-
Voltage: 220–240V AC, 50Hz
-
Max current: 10A
-
Measurement category: CAT II
-
Display ranges:
-
Time: 0s–9999 days
-
Power: 0–9999W
-
Voltage: 0–9999V
-
Current: 0–9999A
-
Frequency: 0–99Hz
-
Energy: 0–9999kWh
-
Cost: 0–9999 units
-
Safety & Maintenance
Q: What precautions should I take?
A:
-
Indoor domestic use only (not commercial/industrial).
-
Do not exceed 10A load.
-
Keep away from water, magnets, dust, and direct sunlight.
-
Do not open, repair, or modify the unit.
-
Disconnect during lightning storms or when unused long-term
Download Manual Below