Rachio Wireless Flow Meter FAQ

Last Update:Feb 24 2022 5:05pm • Est. Read Time:Est. Read Time: 4 MIN

Are you a flow meter user? Wondering what's going to happen now since you still have your Rachio Wireless Flow Meter although it's no longer manufactured by Rachio?  
The good news is that we're still providing assistance for it, check here the most frequently asked question!



All R3 controllers manufactured after November ’21 are not compatible with the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter.

Product Overview

The Rachio Wireless Flow Meter helps you to avoid catastrophic leaks and provides insights into your outdoor water use. The flow meter detects broken heads, ruptured pipes, and even low-flow leaks with highly-sensitive, state-of-the-art Vortex technology. It also issues notifications for leaks and blockages (and even triggers instant zone shut-off when leaks and other flow issues are detected). With Inactive Leak Detection, the Wireless Flow Meter can even check for and detect leaks when your sprinklers are not running. 

The Rachio Wireless Flow Meter uses cutting-edge wireless technology to connect with the Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller. No wires mean that no digging is required to connect the flow meter to the controller! Professional installation is recommended for the Wireless Flow Meter, but you may be able to install on your own (in an average of 30-60 minutes) with our DIY installation instructions.

Please be sure to check out our Updates on the Wireless Flow Meter page.

Want to learn more about the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter?

Here are frequently asked questions from our customers:  

Is my system compatible with the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter?

The Rachio Flow Meter is only compatible with the Rachio 3 controller. The Rachio 3 contains new, proprietary hardware that allows it to communicate with the flow meter (the Generation 1 and Generation 2 controllers do not have this technology). The Rachio 3 controller must be installed prior to installing the Wireless Flow Meter.


What size pipe is the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter compatible with?

The flow meter is designed to be installed on ¾ inch and 1-inch sprinkler systems. Pipes greater than 1-inch diameter are not recommended.


What pipe material is the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter compatible with?

You can install the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter with copper, PVC, or poly pipes. Ensure pipe materials before purchasing fittings. For a complete list of recommended fittings, check out our shopping guide.


Where should the Rachio Wireless Flow meter be installed?

The flow meter should be installed between your backflow preventer and your valves.


What skills will I need for DIY installation? 

To complete DIY installation, you will need to be able to: locate your backflow preventer, and turn off and on the water to your irrigation system; take precise measurements; use a pipe cutter and deburring tool; push pipe, and fittings together.


Will the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter monitor indoor and outdoor water usage?

The flow meter is designed to measure and report outdoor water use only. It is not NSF certified for potable water use and cannot be used for indoor water metering.


How far away can the flow meter be from the controller?

The range for above-ground installation is 300 feet.


How many flow meters do I need?

We support irrigation systems with up to 2 backflow preventers and a single Rachio 3 controller. You should install 1 flow meter per backflow preventer. At the most, you can have two backflow preventers, two Wireless Flow Meters, and one Rachio 3. For more information on advanced installations for the Wireless Flow Meter, click here.


About how long does installation take?

On average, installation takes 30 minutes to 1 hour (dependent on DIY skill level).


How long will the batteries last?

The Rachio Wireless Flow Meter requires two AA batteries which last approximately two watering seasons


How do I replace the batteries?

Battery replacement is as simple as opening the flow meter with a screwdriver and replacing the two AA batteries.


What is the warranty?

As part of the Rachio Smart Watering System, the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter includes a 2-year limited warranty. Click here for details.


Is the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter waterproof? Does it need an enclosure?

The Rachio Wireless Flow Meter is fully waterproof when installed correctly, so no need to worry about it getting wet!


How will I know if the flow meter is working at installation? 

Once your Rachio Wireless Flow Meter is activated, the water usage chart on the home screen of your Rachio app will switch from minutes of usage to gallons or liters. If the flow meter cannot read your system’s flow rate or detect leaks, you will receive an error message. If the flow meter is not working for any reason, you will receive a notification through your email or the Rachio app.


What notifications will the Rachio Wireless Flow Meter send? 

The Rachio Wireless Flow Meter will alert you anytime a high flow rate or low flow rate is recorded. You will receive notifications through email and through your Rachio app and in-app on the Home screen and within individual zones.


Do I need to winterize or freeze-proof my Rachio Wireless Flow Meter?

Nope! The revolutionary and very durable vortex technology allows the flow meter to stay in place during winterization, blowouts, and system maintenance. So no need to mess with it once it's installed!


I have a reclaimed and/or greywater sourced irrigation system with no backflow preventer. Can I still use the Wireless Flow Meter?

Definitely! Reclaimed and/or greywater sourced irrigation systems do not need backflow preventers with the Wireless Flow Meter as the source is not potable drinking water. Simply follow these instructions, and ensure there are at least six inches of straight pipe between the water source and the Wireless Flow Meter. 


Do you still need help?


We have a chat support team ready to assist you! You can submit a support request by selecting the chat icon in the bottom right of this page and a member of the support team will contact you live.


Summer Hours (April-September)

7 am - 5 pm (MST), 7 days a week.


Winter Hours (October-March)

8 am - 5pm (MST), Monday - Saturday. We are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day.