Quick Answer
Bluebot works best when installed on a clean, straight section of your main cold water supply line that is fully pressurized. Installing on the wrong pipe, a dirty surface, or a partially full line can result in poor ultrasonic signal quality and inaccurate readings.
Why Install Location Matters
Bluebot uses ultrasonic sensors to measure water flow inside the pipe. If the pipe is not full, not clean, or not the correct line, the ultrasonic signal can be weakened or fail entirely.
Taking a few minutes to understand your water system before installing can prevent most setup issues.
If you’re unsure where your main water line is, a local plumber can usually help identify it with a short walkthrough.
Before You Install: Key Things to Check
Make sure you are installing on the main cold water supply line
Avoid branch lines, spare bathroom lines, or irrigation-only lines unless intentional
Confirm the pipe is cold, not hot
Confirm the pipe is a water line, not a gas line
Ensure the pipe is fully pressurized and full of water
Choose a section with at least 4 inches of straight pipe
Bluebot will not measure flow reliably on partially full pipes.
Common Causes of Poor Ultrasonic Signal (And How to Fix Them)
If your app shows poor or weak signal quality, review the sections below.
Pipe-Related Issues
Device is not tightly fitted to the pipe
Why it matters:
Bluebot must be snug against the pipe so the ultrasonic signal can pass cleanly through the pipe wall.
What to do:
Install on a clean section of pipe at least 4 inches long
Make sure the device is firmly clamped with no gaps
After clamping, give the device a firm squeeze to ensure a tight fit
Pipe surface is dirty or painted
Why it matters:
Paint, dust, grime, or corrosion blocks ultrasonic signal transmission.
What to do:
Sand the pipe using the included sandpaper disc
Wipe clean with the microfiber cloth (slightly damp helps)
Remove the device and inspect the ultrasonic pads
Clean pads with warm water and mild soap, or replace them if dirty
Ultrasonic pads became dirty from multiple install attempts
What to do:
Use the silver C-holders to prop the clamps open
Remove the existing pads
Apply new replacement pads directly over the clear sensor windows
Installed on a hot pipe
Why it matters:
Bluebot must be installed on the cold water line. Hot pipes can damage pads and reduce accuracy.
What to do:
Carefully touch the pipe before installing to confirm it’s cold
If stuck to a hot pipe:
Hold clamps open
Gently rock side to side to release
Replace ultrasonic pads before reinstalling
Tip:
In hot climates or outdoor installs, rinse the pipe with cold water before installation and shade the device from direct sun.
Installed on a gas line
What happens:
Gas lines contain no water, so Bluebot will show zero signal quality.
What to do:
Locate your water meter box and follow a straight line toward your home
Find the emergency water shut-off valve — this usually marks the main water line
If unsure, consult a plumber or technician
Hard water, scale, or corrosion inside the pipe
Why it matters:
Scale buildup increases pipe wall thickness and weakens ultrasonic signals.
Most common in:
Hard water regions
Homes built before 1970
Copper or galvanized pipes
What to do:
Try a different install location
Have a plumber inspect for internal scale or corrosion if issues persist
Pipe size is not supported
What to do:
Confirm your pipe size falls within supported ranges by reviewing the Compatibility & Specifications article.
Alignment-Related Issues
Device is angled or not centered
Why it matters:
Ultrasonic sensors must sit directly over the pipe centerline.
What to do:
Remove the device
Reinstall with the centerline of Bluebot aligned to the centerline of the pipe
Use the small “^” alignment notches on the device as guides
Not enough straight pipe (installed over a fitting or elbow)
Why it matters:
Fittings and bends disrupt flow patterns and ultrasonic readings.
What to do:
Move the install location further upstream or downstream
If outdoors, consider digging slightly lower where the pipe exits the ground
If needed, install indoors near the water heater on the cold water inlet
App-Related Issues
Incorrect pipe type selected in the app
Why it matters:
Bluebot adjusts itself based on the selected pipe material.
Fix from the Dashboard
Open the app and go to Devices
Select your Bluebot
Open Device Profile
Scroll to Install Location
Select Pipe Type and choose the correct material
Required: Tap Rescan Pipe
Fix during setup
Restart the install process
Complete the site survey again
Select the correct pipe type
Continue setup and scan for flow
Tip:
Spending extra time upfront identifying the correct pipe saves time and avoids restarting the install.
Still Having Trouble?
If none of the steps above resolve your issue, contact Bluebot Support. We’re happy to help with advanced troubleshooting.