What exactly are these “smart” water meters for the home? Why are these gadgets becoming more and more popular, and what essential information do you need to have about them?
We will address these questions and more as we take an in-depth look at the two smart water monitors that are currently the most popular on the market: The Flume 1 and the Flume 2.
Flume 1 vs Flume 2
| Water Meter | Flume 1 | Flume 2 |
| Dimensions | 5” x 4” x 1” | 2.5” x 3.5” x 5.7” |
| Bridge Temperature Range | 32 – 160 Degrees Fahrenheit | 32 – 160 Degrees Fahrenheit |
| Power Supply | 100 – 240 VAC | 100 – 240 VAC |
| Internal antenna | No | Yes |
| Additional Battery Slot | 0 | 1 |
| Improved Radio Frequency | No | Yes |
| Data Backup | No | Yes |
| Improved Range | No | Yes |
Both of these units belong to the same brand, and there are more similarities than differences when you look closely at these devices.
We will go through the benefits and drawbacks of each smart water monitor and provide a summary of its most important features in order to assist you in making a purchase decision.
- Introduction
There are several home water monitors on the market, but what is the difference between the two high-end models?
Flume 1 and Flume 2 monitor water quality in your home by collecting data from sensors that detect contaminants such as lead, copper, and bacteria.
You must download the app on your phone or tablet to get instant notifications about levels that exceed EPA standards.
The cost of these devices will depend on whether you buy them outright or subscribe to a monthly monitoring service.
For more coverage, you can purchase additional sensors and connect them through Wi-Fi to your home’s network.
You’ll need an internet connection to use this product. If you’re unsure about having a continuous internet connection, then either version might not be the best choice for you.
The essential part of any water monitor is getting accurate readings, so research both options thoroughly!
You may choose the Flume 1 if you don’t want to worry about updating your device every few months, while the Flume 2 is better if you use more than one device.
Remember how often you plan on using it and how much water flows through your pipes daily.
Flume 1 and 2 monitor the total dissolved solids (TDS) and chlorine levels in the water.
It can detect if there are any leaks or contaminants in the water line and notifies the user through a push notification on their phone.
Flume 1 doesn’t provide as much information when compared with the comprehensive water consumption details brought forward by the Flume 2 system.
According to the experts, the Flume 2 supports the same features as the Flume 1, and further adds more features and a better design.
Flume 2 provides more information, such as how much water you’re using at home while you’re away.
However, it will set you back a few more bucks, and the price point is closer to 200 dollars. This price can vary depending on the dealer you choose, and going with Flume 2 is generally the better decision.
If someone uses sodium-heavy food items, such as soy sauce or processed meats, then Flume 2 will be able to tell them this information.
Flume 2 brings a more substantial and robust size. It might not fit in tight spaces, but it is more than capable of providing you with a better range in isolated regions.
So, keep relying on the Flume 2 system if the operating conditions are a bit rough.
If you need help deciding which device to buy, we recommend asking yourself: what do I need this device for? Do I have pets? Do I live near lakes or oceans? Do I have young children?
These are all questions that can help determine which device would work best for your needs.
- Setup & Ease of Use
The most important thing to consider when purchasing a water monitor is the ease of use.
The last thing you want is for the device to be too complicated for you to install or for it to take an excessively long time to get set up.
With both the Flume 1 and the Flume 2, installation is simple. This can be done by downloading their app, connecting your device with Bluetooth, and following the instructions.
Once the process has been completed, you will then have access to information about your water usage at all times from anywhere in the world!
With regards to ease of use, they are both very easy to install. But some owners do point out Flume 1 to be more annoying and filled with bugs.
So, you can’t expect any consistent performance from this version.
Whereas the setup process for Flume 2 uses GPS coordinates so that it doesn’t require any manual input from you. So, you can say that Flume 2 is better when it comes to the basic setup.
Bottom Line:
Overall, the water monitor is a great product and worth the investment. However, it is important to know what you are getting with each model before purchasing one.
Flume 2 is better because of its:
- Amazing Design
- Better Battery Life
- Improved Range
- Increased Durability
- Data Backup in The Case of Wi-Fi Loss
On the other hand, the only good thing about Flume 1 is its price point. No one can say or prove that Flume 1 is the better unit, and you can only rely on Flume 2 if you wish to enjoy better and long-term performance.
With that said, the company is offering a ton of discounts to the owners with the Flume 1 device. So, if you wish to upgrade to the Flume 2 unit, it won’t set you back a great deal.
Moreover, you have all the reasons to upgrade to a simply superior device.
Plus, both models come with an app so you can track how much water is being used in real time from anywhere!
Keep in mind that this type of protection only works as long as there is a strong internet connection, if anything goes wrong while you’re away–your water usage could go unchecked.
Additionally, smart-home enabled devices cost more up front and require monthly fees for their use–something to consider before investing.