Network Configuration
WaterMeterKit V3 connects over WiFi, or over Thread with the dedicated Thread firmware. V1 and V2 connect over WiFi only. This page explains provisioning and troubleshooting.
Quick Overview
| Option | Firmware | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi | Standard firmware | Default. Provisioning via Bluetooth (Improv BLE, V3 only), USB (Improv Serial) or the fallback hotspot. |
| Thread | Thread variant | Local Home Assistant only, through a Thread border router. See Connect via Thread. |
WiFi Setup
No WiFi credentials are embedded in the firmware. Provision in one of three ways:
- Improv BLE (V3 only): open Home Assistant on your phone; the device is discovered automatically and asks for your WiFi credentials.
- Improv Serial: connect USB-C to a computer and use the browser setup flow.
- Fallback hotspot: connect to the
watermeterkitaccess point and enter your WiFi credentials in the captive portal (password:watermeterkit).
After connecting, Home Assistant discovers the device via the ESPHome integration.
WiFi requirements: 2.4 GHz network, WPA2 or WPA3. V1 and V2 need WPA2 or mixed WPA2/WPA3. The WiFi Signal entity shows signal strength. On V3 the IP Address entity is disabled by default, enable it on the device page if you need it.
Thread
WaterMeterKit V3 can also join a Thread network for fully local Home Assistant use. This requires a Thread border router and a USB flash. See Connect WaterMeterKit via Thread.
Local Operation & Privacy
All readings go directly to Home Assistant over your local network via the ESPHome API. The local firmware only contacts the internet to check for firmware updates; the cloud firmware additionally syncs with the SmartHomeShop app.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Check |
|---|---|
| Hotspot not visible | Wait 1-2 minutes after boot. The hotspot appears when no WiFi is configured, or about 90 seconds after the saved network cannot be reached. |
| WiFi connection fails | Double-check the password and make sure the network is 2.4 GHz. |
| Weak signal at the water meter | Water meters often sit in metal cabinets or basements, so consider a WiFi repeater nearby, or the Thread firmware if you have a Thread mesh with a router device close by. |
| Not discovered by Home Assistant | Device and Home Assistant must be on the same network/VLAN with mDNS allowed. |