Flowmeter: action when reading is off by more than 10 psi?

• A. Recalibrate, repair, or replace the meter
• B. Ignore the reading until the next test
• C. Tighten fittings and retest
• D. Replace only if above rating

Answer: (A)

When a flowmeter’s reading is outside the allowed tolerance, you must restore its accuracy by recalibrating, repairing, or replacing the meter. Accuracy is essential for safe and effective operation, especially in systems where flow and pressure directly affect performance and safety. A drift of more than 10 psi suggests the instrument is no longer trustworthy—caused by calibration drift, worn components, or sensor issues—so recalibration or service is needed to bring it back within spec. Simply tightening fittings might address a loose connection, but it doesn’t fix calibration or internal faults, and ignoring the reading keeps you operating with an unreliable gauge. Replacing the meter is warranted when it can’t be brought back into spec or is at the end of its service life.