Hardware Versions
The WaterP1MeterKit is available in three hardware versions. This page helps you understand the differences.
📢 Note: Since October 2025, we only sell the V3 — the latest and most feature-rich version.
How to Identify Your Version
Not sure which version you have? Here's how to tell them apart:
| Version | How to Recognize |
|---|---|
| V3 | Has a small cutout/hole on the side (lengthwise) for the expansion sensor port |
| V2 | PoE works — no side cutout (V1 and V2 look identical from outside) |
| V1 | PoE does not work — no side cutout (V1 and V2 look identical from outside) |
Tip: V1 and V2 are visually identical from the outside. The easiest way to tell them apart is to connect an Ethernet cable to a PoE switch — if the device powers on, it's V2. If not, it's V1.
Version Comparison
| Feature | V1 | V2 | V3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ethernet | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Built-in PoE | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Water Sensor | Fixed | Fixed | Detachable |
| Expansion Port | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Improved Precision | - | - | ✅ |
| P1 Energy Monitoring | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Temperature & Humidity | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
V1 — Original
The original WaterP1MeterKit that started it all.
Key Features:
- WiFi and Ethernet connectivity
- P1 energy meter reading (DSMR 2.2 - 5.0)
- Water meter monitoring
- Temperature & humidity sensor (HDC1080)
PoE Support: V1 does not have built-in PoE. To use PoE, you need an external PoE splitter that separates power into an Ethernet cable and a USB-C cable.
Best For:
- Users who already have a USB power source nearby
- Budget-conscious installations where PoE is not required
V2 — Built-in PoE
The second generation added native PoE support for cleaner installations.
Key Features:
- Everything from V1
- Built-in PoE support (802.3af) — single cable for power and data
- No external splitter needed
Best For:
- Clean installations with a single Ethernet cable
- Users with existing PoE infrastructure
- Locations far from power outlets
V3 — Detachable Sensor & Expansion
The latest generation with maximum flexibility.
Key Features:
- Everything from V2
- Detachable water sensor — easier installation and replacement
- Expansion port — connect additional sensors:
- Water leak sensor
- Door/window sensor
- Improved precision — enhanced water measurement accuracy
Best For:
- New installations wanting the latest features
- Users who may need to replace or reposition the water sensor
- Smart home enthusiasts who want expansion capabilities
Connectivity Options
All versions support both WiFi and Ethernet connectivity:
| Connection | V1 | V2 | V3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi (2.4 GHz) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| PoE (802.3af) | Via splitter | ✅ Built-in | ✅ Built-in |
Default Firmware
All devices ship with WiFi firmware pre-installed. This means:
- The device creates a
waterp1meterkitWiFi hotspot on first boot - You can connect and configure your home WiFi network
- After connecting to Home Assistant, you can switch to Ethernet if needed
Switching Between WiFi and Ethernet
There are two ways to switch firmware:
Via Home Assistant (easiest)
- Connect Ethernet cable first (if switching to Ethernet)
- Use the Firmware Type selector in the device settings
- Device automatically downloads and installs the new firmware
Via USB-C flashing
- Connect to computer via USB-C
- Flash the appropriate firmware via web flasher
👉 See Network Configuration for detailed instructions.
Water Consumption Tracking
All versions include persistent water consumption tracking:
| Sensor | Description |
|---|---|
| Water Total Consumption | Pulses since boot (use for Energy Dashboard) |
| Water Meter Initial Value | Set your current physical meter reading |
| Water Meter Total | Initial Value + Total Consumption = actual reading |
Smart Data Saving
The kit uses intelligent saving to protect flash memory:
| Trigger | When | Always Saves? |
|---|---|---|
| Interval check | Every 5 minutes | Only if 50+ liters difference |
| Shutdown | OTA, restart, factory reset | ✅ Always |
This means your meter reading survives reboots and firmware updates!
Current Availability
Since October 2025, we only sell the V3 — the latest version with all features including:
- ✅ Built-in PoE support
- ✅ Detachable water sensor for easy installation
- ✅ Expansion port for additional sensors
- ✅ Best water measurement precision
V1 and V2 are no longer available for purchase.
Legacy Version Reference
For existing V1/V2 owners, here's a quick reference:
| If you have... | Key difference from V3 |
|---|---|
| V1 | No built-in PoE (needs external splitter), fixed sensor |
| V2 | Fixed sensor (not detachable), no expansion port |
Upgrading Between Versions
The WaterP1MeterKit hardware versions are not upgradeable — each version is a separate device. However:
- Firmware is interchangeable between WiFi and Ethernet on all versions
- Configuration in Home Assistant can be exported/imported
- Historical data remains in Home Assistant when replacing the device