Bluebot measures water usage using ultrasonic sound waves.
If Bluebot shows flow when you’re confident no water is being used, it’s usually due to installation conditions, pipe behavior, or zero-point calibration, not a leak or software error.
Common reasons this can happen
Incorrect or drifted zero point
If the zero point was set while water was flowing (even slightly), Bluebot may interpret background noise as flow.
Small vibrations or temperature changes can also cause the zero point to drift over time.
Pipe vibration or movement
Vibrations from appliances, pumps, HVAC systems, or nearby plumbing can be detected as flow.
Loosely secured pipes are more likely to cause this.
Painted, dirty, or uneven pipe surface
Paint, rust, residue, or an uneven surface can interfere with ultrasonic signals and create false readings.
Pipe material limitations
Galvanized steel pipes—especially older ones with internal corrosion—can cause inconsistent readings, including phantom flow.
Installed near fittings or valves
Mounting close to elbows, valves, or tees can create turbulence that appears as flow, even when fixtures are off.
How to fix or reduce false flow readings
Re-set the zero point
Ensure no water is running anywhere in the home
Re-set the zero point after any remounting
Check the pipe surface
Confirm Bluebot is mounted on a clean, unpainted, dry section of pipe
Verify mounting
Make sure the device sits flush and firmly
Confirm the pipe itself is not vibrating or shifting
Reposition if needed
Move Bluebot to a straight section of pipe
Avoid installing directly next to valves or bends
Consider pipe material
If installed on galvanized steel, some background flow readings may persist due to pipe condition
Important to know:
A small amount of background flow does not always indicate a leak. In most cases, it reflects installation or pipe-related signal interference rather than actual water usage.
If false flow readings continue after these steps, our support team can help review your setup and determine next steps.