Despite the fact that anything in the flow stream will add to the restriction on that flow, I decided I wanted to monitor the flow rate as an indicator of when to backwash or perform a compete filter cleaning. I've had this meter installed for about 6 months now and have backwashed twice in that time based on flow readings from this meter. There is a noticeable difference in flow rate before and after BW-ing, so it seems to be adding value to our pool system.The entire plastic meter is made of fairly heavy duty plastic and I suspect it will last a long time. I've 3-D printed a cover to keep the sun off the clear meter portion, but I don't know if that was really necessary.I can recommend this product if you plan to use your flow rate to schedule backwashes and filter changes.