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Calibration Tools: Set Zero Point & K-Factor Explained

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Quick Answer

Bluebot includes two calibration tools to improve accuracy in specific situations: Set Zero Point (used to remove false or “noisy” flow readings) and K-Factor (used to align Bluebot’s totals with another known meter). Most users only need Set Zero Point, and many never need K-Factor at all.

Set Zero Point (Re-Zeroing)

What is Set Zero Point?

Set Zero Point recalibrates Bluebot’s baseline when no water is flowing. This is helpful if your device shows a very small flow reading even though all water is off.

This behavior—sometimes called false flow or signal noise—is a known and rare characteristic of transit-time ultrasonic flow meters. It does not mean your Bluebot is defective.

When should I use it?

Use Set Zero Point if:

  • You just completed installation and see irregular low flow

  • You moved Bluebot to a new water system

  • The app shows a small, steady flow (typically ~0.1–0.4 GPM) when no water is running

How to Set the Zero Point

Before starting, make sure no water is flowing. You may shut off the water temporarily if needed, but it’s not required if you’re confident there is no flow.

  1. Open the Bluebot Water app

  2. Start from the Dashboard

  3. Tap the device showing false flow

  4. Scroll to Hardware

  5. Scroll to Calibration

  6. Confirm no water is running

  7. Tap Set Zero Point

  8. Tap Yes to confirm

  9. Wait a few seconds for calibration to complete

You’ll see a small positive or negative value appear. This is normal.

You can repeat Set Zero Point at any time if needed.

Important Warning

  • Do not run Set Zero Point while water is flowing

  • Doing so can temporarily make readings inaccurate

  • Only use this tool if you are sure the flow you see is false (usually very low)

Using Set Zero Point incorrectly can hide a real leak.

K-Factor Calibration

What is K-Factor?

K-Factor is an advanced calibration tool used to align Bluebot’s total usage with another known meter, such as:

  • A water utility meter

  • A mechanical master meter

  • A wellhead meter

This is commonly used in agricultural, commercial, or multi-meter systems.

When should I use K-Factor?

Use K-Factor only if:

  • You are comparing Bluebot to another verified meter

  • Both meters are measuring the same water over the same time period

  • You want long-term totals to match more closely

Most residential users do not need K-Factor.

Example

  • Utility or master meter shows 9,400 gallons

  • Bluebot shows 9,300 gallons for the same time period

K-Factor =
​9,400 ÷ 9,300 = 1.0108

The app calculates this automatically for you.

How to Set the K-Factor

  1. Write down:

    • Total gallons from the reference meter

    • Start and end dates for the measurement period

  2. Open the Bluebot Water app

  3. Start from the Dashboard

  4. Tap your device

  5. Open Settings

  6. Scroll to Calibration

  7. Tap Update K-Factor

  8. Enter:

    • Bluebot gallons

    • Reference meter gallons

    • Period start and end dates

  9. Save and wait for the update to complete

You may update the K-Factor at any time.

Important Warning

  • Do not set a K-Factor without verified data

  • Guessing or estimating values will cause inaccurate readings

  • K-Factor should not be used to correct short-term flow behavior

Which Calibration Tool Should I Use?

  • Seeing small flow when water is off? → Set Zero Point

  • Matching totals to another meter over time? → K-Factor

  • Not sure? → Start with Set Zero Point or contact support

Still Need Help?

If calibration doesn’t resolve the issue or you’re unsure which tool to use, contact Bluebot Support and we’ll help you determine the next best step.

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