What is the purpose of a watt-hour meter?

A watt-hour meter is specifically designed to measure the amount of electrical energy consumed over time, typically quantified in watt-hours. This device is widely used in residential and commercial settings to monitor energy usage, allowing utility companies to bill customers accurately based on their consumption. By recording the total energy used, a watt-hour meter provides critical data that can help users understand their consumption patterns, potentially leading to more energy-efficient practices. This capability distinguishes it from other types of meters that may focus on measuring voltage, resistance, or power factor, none of which directly equate to the measurement of energy consumption over a specified period.