Quick Answer
Bluebot works best when installed on a clean, straight section of your main cold water line with good Wi-Fi and power nearby. A proper site survey helps prevent inaccurate readings caused by turbulence, poor alignment, or weak signal.
What Is a Site Survey?
A site survey is a quick check of your plumbing, Wi-Fi, and power before installing Bluebot. Every home is different, but most residential water systems follow a similar layout.
This guide helps you:
Find the correct pipe
Choose a reliable install location
Avoid common causes of inaccurate readings
Step 1: Locate Your Main Water Line
Bluebot should be installed on the main water line if you want to capture total household usage.
How to Find It
Start at your utility water meter (usually near the street or sidewalk)
Look for a metal or concrete lid marked “Water”
The main line runs straight from the meter into your home
In colder climates, the main line often enters a basement.
In warmer climates, it’s often near an exterior wall.
If Bluebot is installed further downstream, it may not capture all water usage.
Step 2: Find the Main Shutoff Valve
Finding the main shutoff usually means you’ve found the right pipe.
Typical locations:
Outside near where water enters the home
Garage or utility closet
Basement
Common valve types:
Ball valve (yellow handle) in newer homes
Gate valve (round handle) in older homes (pre-1970)
Good install locations are often:
Just below the main shutoff
Before or after a water softener or purifier
On a clean, straight section of pipe at least 4 inches long
Step 3: Confirm It’s the Cold Water Line
Bluebot must be installed on a cold, pressurized water line.
The cold line feeds the water heater
Do not install on hot water lines
Do not install on gas lines
If unsure, lightly touch the pipe — cold lines are cool to the touch.
Step 4: Check Wi-Fi Strength
Hold your phone right next to the planned install location.
Ideal: 2–3 bars of Wi-Fi
Minimum: 1 bar (may be unreliable)
Important:
Initial Wi-Fi setup requires strong signal (near your router)
At the final install location, Bluebot will reconnect automatically
If signal is weak, a Wi-Fi extender may be needed
Step 5: Locate Power
Bluebot requires continuous power.
Find a nearby outlet before installing
The included USB-C power cable is 10 feet long
Some users use an outdoor-rated extension cord if needed
Step 6: Choose a Good Section of Pipe
For best accuracy:
Choose the longest straight section of pipe possible
Avoid fittings, elbows, valves, or couplings
The device must sit flush and snug against the pipe
Air gaps, debris, or hidden couplers can weaken the ultrasonic signal and cause inaccurate readings.
Step 7: Avoid Turbulent Flow
What Is Turbulent Flow?
Turbulent flow occurs when water moves unpredictably, usually near:
Elbows and bends
Valves and couplings
Pumps or pressurizers
Ultrasonic sensors work best when water flow is smooth and predictable.
Avoid installing Bluebot:
Directly on corners
Immediately after pumps or boosters
Over fittings or joints
Step 8: Align the Sensors Correctly
Proper alignment is critical for accurate readings.
Bluebot has alignment notches on both sides
These should line up with the center of the pipe
A firm squeeze after clamping helps seat the device
Tip:
Drawing a light line down the center of the pipe can help with alignment.
Still Not Sure? Send Us a Photo
If you’re unsure about your install location:
Take a photo of the pipe and surrounding area
Submit it through our AI Agent "Bluebot"
We’re happy to help confirm the best location before you install.