Measuring instruments (market surveillance)

The Hessian Directorate of Weights and Measures monitors that measuring instruments are correctly placed on the market by the manufacturers, in particular whether they measure correctly. In households, this applies, for example, to electricity, gas and water meters, but also scales in supermarkets, petrol pumps at petrol stations, flue gas analyzers and much more.

If it is determined that a measuring instrument does not measure correctly from the outset, it must not be manufactured or imported further. The recall of measuring instruments may also be necessary. If necessary, the manufacturer or importer will also be fined.

With the proof that a measuring device does not measure correctly, e.g. a consumption bill can be challenged against the water supplier.
 

An die Hessische Eichdirektion. If necessary, reference will be made to the branch offices in Fulda, Giessen, Kassel, Maintal, Wiesbaden

If faulty measuring devices in households are suspected, the name and address of the owner (usually the energy supplier), manufacturer, type and serial number of the device as well as the name and address of the person where the device is installed are required. Suspicion of faulty measuring devices at 3 (e.g. petrol stations) will be reported accordingly.

Note: Applications for calibrations are made by the owner of the measuring instrument by fax, telephone or via the website of the Hessian Weights and Measures Directorate. See calibrations.

No deadlines on the part of the authorities; however, care should be taken to ensure that in the event of problems with utility billing, the appeal deadlines are respected
 

If users suspect that a measuring instrument is not measuring correctly, an application for a diagnostic examination can be submitted. The fees depend on the type of measuring instrument and, if applicable, the effort and can be found in the Calibration Costs Ordinance.

The checklist electricity meter and electricity bill should be observed beforehand.

In addition to the official fees for the diagnostic tests, there are still costs – sometimes considerable – for the removal and transport of the old meter as well as the installation of the new meter. These are to be borne like the test costs if the meter has no defect.

Especially with water meters, malfunction or no longer valid calibration can often be observed. Electricity meters are practically not affected, because the electromechanical meters (with rotating disc) tend to display too little over time. It should also be noted that the calibration validity of some types of measuring instruments can be extended by random testing. In this case, the measuring instruments are still valid despite the supposedly "expired" calibration mark.