A WESTON man claims to have invented a device which could eventually save people around the country more than �160million a year.

Gerry Evans says UK water meters take inaccurate readings due to the fact they cannot measure tiny grains, known as particulates, in the water, often under-recording the amount of water used.

Although initially that may save users’ money, the amount used will then be estimated by the water company and charged for, meaning people can often be over-charged instead.

But Mr Evans, of Addiscombe Road, says his years in the industry have helped him to create a modified meter which accurately records the amount of water used, and prevents particulates interfering with the accuracy of measurements.

Mr Evans, a former engineering designer, says he has written to Caroline Spelman, the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and the Parliamentary Water Committee via Weston MP John Penrose about his invention which meets all regulation standards, while improving water quality by properly filtering particulates.

Mr Evans said while new meters may work perfectly when they are tested on water which does not contain particulates, when they are used on water which does contain them, they regularly fail or under-record.

His meter uses filters which can stop particulates from damaging the meter, therefore allowing it to run for years longer, while also not damaging householders’ domestic appliances and central heating systems.

He says his meter can also be serviced, while present meters have to be thrown away following problems, costing both water companies and ratepayers money.

He said: “Even the latest water meters can still break down or under register soon after installation due to the particulates that go through them – if we eventually have around 28 million water meters in the country it could cost up to �163million per year just for replacements.”

He continued: “I am challenging any meter company which wishes to put their design up against my redesigned manifold meter in front of any engineering body such as the Royal Academy of Engineers on my test rig or similar rig to prove whose is the most reliable against particulate matter.

“In a time when water shortage is becoming a major issue even in the UK and throughout the world, water bills are increasing and we need to carefully manage our resources. There is nothing more important than water.

“Therefore it is essential we have an accurate metering system.”