EDIT - I've started another thread to discuss this new unit. Please use the new thread to post any discussion regarding the new model. I don't want to "muddy the water" of this thread other than letting people know that there is a new model coming out. Thanks!
There seems to be a new version of the energy monitor coming out sometime in 2009.
The new ECM-1240 monitors the main loads on a panel, but will also monitor up to five "sub loads."
It also looks like you can use channel 2 to monitor wind or solar power GENERATION on your system.
It also looks like you can track water and gas usage via pulse counts if you meter allows that
And finally...
Looks pretty good IMHO and I am very excited about the new model. Again, please use this new thread for any discussion on the new model.
Thanks,
There seems to be a new version of the energy monitor coming out sometime in 2009.
The new ECM-1240 monitors the main loads on a panel, but will also monitor up to five "sub loads."
The new ECM-1240 has the ability to not only track the real-time energy consumption of your entire home, but also simultaneously track and analyze the cost impact of several household loads.
All of this information is easily viewable on a connected computer or optionally via the internet.
Imagine being able to accurately track the consumption of:
Entire house panel (CH1)
Central Air unit (CH2)
Clothes Dryer (Aux1)
Electric Range (Aux2)
Water Heater (Aux3)
Spa (Aux4)
The software can then show what percentage of your bill is affected by these various large loads.
This is only one of thousands of possible scenarios.
It also looks like you can use channel 2 to monitor wind or solar power GENERATION on your system.
Wind and Solar Power Producers:
Consider the monitoring scenario described above. Now use CH2 for your grid-tied inverter to monitor the energy generated.
The NET-Metering capability of the ECM-1240 will allow you to record the amount of power returned to the grid, amount of energy used and the net difference, along with the four additional monitored loads.
It also looks like you can track water and gas usage via pulse counts if you meter allows that
Additional capabilities include using Aux1 or Aux2 to record the pulse count from a gas or water meter equipped with a pulse output.
And finally...
Any of the Aux inputs may also be used to monitor a DC voltage from various environmental sensors.
Looks pretty good IMHO and I am very excited about the new model. Again, please use this new thread for any discussion on the new model.
Thanks,