Quick Answer
Choose a clean, straight section of compatible pipe based on what you want to measure. Installing on the correct pipe—and avoiding corrosion, fittings, and buildup—is critical for accurate data.
Step 1: Decide What You Want to Measure
Before choosing a pipe, ask yourself:
What water usage do I want to track?
Common Install Goals
Install Location- | What You’ll Measure- |
Main cold water line | Total home water usage* |
Irrigation main | Irrigation usage only |
Many customers install:
One Bluebot on the home main
A second Bluebot on the irrigation main
This allows clear separation of household vs. outdoor water use.
Multiple meters can be grouped and managed in the app.
If your home has additions, ADUs, or remodeled plumbing, make sure the pipe you choose feeds all areas you want to measure.
Step 2: Choose the Right Section of Pipe
Once you’ve found the correct line, look for a pipe section that meets all of the following:
At least 4 inches of straight pipe
No fittings, elbows, or couplers nearby
Free of paint, dirt, debris, or buildup
Allows a tight, snug clamp-on fit
Bluebot relies on direct contact between the ultrasonic pads and the pipe.
Any gaps or obstructions can reduce signal quality and accuracy.
Step 3: Confirm Pipe Compatibility
Bluebot supports a wide range of common residential pipe materials and sizes.
Compatible Pipe Types
Copper (Type M & L)
Stainless steel
PVC
Galvanized steel
PEX
Black PE (polyethylene)
Supported Sizes
Standard sizes: ¾” to 2”
Larger PVC sizes (up to 4”) available by request
Make sure the pipe type and size are confirmed in the app before installing.
Step 4: Consider Pipe Condition (Especially in Older Homes)
Plastic Pipes (PVC, PEX, PE)
Typically free of scale or corrosion
Usually ideal for installation
Metal Pipes (Copper, Galvanized)
Older homes may have internal scale or corrosion, which can:
Increase pipe wall thickness
Interfere with ultrasonic signal strength
Lead to inaccurate readings
How to Check for Scale or Corrosion
If you’re unsure about pipe condition, try one or more of the following:
Visual Clues
Check inside toilet tanks for rust or dark staining
Watch water from a faucet—brown or murky water at startup may indicate corrosion
Simple Water Testing
Over-the-counter water test kits can check:
Hardness
pH
Copper presence
Physical Inspection
Homes built before 1970 often have galvanized plumbing
If corrosion is suspected, a plumber can confirm pipe condition before installation
Final Checklist: Picking a Good Pipe
Before installing Bluebot, confirm that the pipe is:
The correct line for your measurement goal
A supported size and material
Straight and unobstructed
Clean and free of scale or corrosion
Need Help Choosing?
If you’re unsure whether a pipe is a good candidate:
Take a photo of the location
Share it with Bluebot Chat or submit it to support
We’re happy to help you choose the best spot before you install.