Remote Tracking of Cooking Gas Dispensation: A Practical Guide
Tracking the daily dispensation of cooking gas from your LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) pump can be a concern for many users, especially those looking for cost-effective and reliable methods. This article explores various options for remotely monitoring your LPG usage, including electronic meters, simple camera setups, and smart meter recorders.
Current Solutions for Remote Monitoring
The gas utility often employs remote metering to track usage. This involves retrofitting an electronic sender unit onto the existing volume-flow meter. While the initial installation cost might be around US$200 in bulk, these meters can be more difficult to find individually and might require a significant investment for customization.
Technical Expertise Required
For those unfamiliar with the technical specifications, connecting the electronic module to a computer and then to a router might present challenges. Off-the-shelf solutions may be available, but custom work might also be necessary. This article aims to provide a more straightforward approach for those seeking an easier and more affordable solution.
Cost-Effective Alternative: Simple Camera Setup
A more practical and cost-effective method involves positioning the storage tank on a scale and pointing an internet camera at it. By checking the weight of the tank each morning, you can easily monitor the daily dispensation of gas. This method eliminates the need for expensive equipment and sophisticated software, making it a simple and practical solution.
Steps to Implement the Camera Setup
Position the storage tank on a reliable and accurate scale.
Set up an internet camera to monitor the scale.
Take a photo or video of the scale every morning to record the current weight.
Compare the weights to determine the daily dispensation of cooking gas.
Advanced Solution: Smart Meter Recorders
For those seeking a more advanced and detailed monitoring system, smart meter recorders can be a great choice. These devices can provide daily, hourly, or weekly readings, offering a more comprehensive view of your LPG usage. By linking these smart meters to your device, you can receive the readings through a remote monitoring interface, making it easier to manage and monitor your gas usage from anywhere.
Benefits of Using Smart Meter Recorders
Enhanced Data Accuracy: Smart meters offer precise readings, ensuring accurate monitoring of your LPG usage.
Flexibility: Choose the frequency of readings (daily, hourly, or weekly) based on your needs.
Remote Monitoring: Receive real-time updates and historical data through a remote interface.
Ease of Implementation: These devices can be easily connected to existing systems, reducing the need for custom work.
Conclusion
Remote tracking of daily cooking gas dispensation is an important aspect of managing your LPG usage. Whether you opt for a simple camera setup or an advanced smart meter recorder, there are several options available. By implementing one of these methods, you can ensure that you have a practical and cost-effective solution to monitor your LPG usage.
Key Takeaways:
Simple camera setup involves positioning the storage tank on a scale and monitoring it with a webcam.
Smart meter recorders provide detailed and flexible readings, making it easy to monitor your LPG usage.
Cost-effective solutions are available, including remote camera setups and smart meter recorders.
By choosing the right method for your needs, you can efficiently track your daily gas dispensation and make informed decisions about your LPG consumption.