PlumBuddy Valve Specifications
Technical specifications for the PlumBuddy Valve including dimensions, flow rates, pressure ratings, and power requirements.
Overview
The PlumBuddy Valve is a motorized smart water shut-off valve that installs on your main water supply line. It monitors water flow continuously and can automatically shut off your water supply when a leak is detected. The valve is controlled through the PlumBuddy mobile app and connects to your home network via WiFi.
Valve Sizes
PlumBuddy valves are available in three sizes to fit different residential water line configurations:
| Valve Size | Pipe Size | Connection Size (NPS) |
|---|---|---|
| DN20 | 3/4” | 1” |
| DN25 | 1” | 1-1/4” |
| DN32 | 1-1/4” | 1-1/2” |
The DN25 (1”) valve is the most common for single-family homes. Your plumber can help determine the correct size based on your home’s main water line diameter.
Materials and Construction
- Valve body material: DZR (Dezincification Resistant) Brass
- Control interface: On/Off buttons under swivel top cover
- Indicator light: Multi-color LED for status indication
- Antenna: Built-in for WiFi connectivity
DZR brass is specifically designed for use in potable water systems. It resists corrosion and dezincification, which means the valve body will hold up to years of continuous contact with your home’s water supply.
Power
- Primary power: USB-C (5-12V) connected to a standard 120V outlet using the included adapter
- Power cable length: 10 feet (included)
- Backup battery: Internal 19,000 mAh lithium-ion battery
- Battery backup runtime: Approximately 1 to 7 days depending on usage
The valve requires a power outlet within 10 feet of the installation location. If your installation requires a longer cable, contact PlumBuddy support for guidance on compatible USB-C cables and power parameters.
Battery Backup
The internal battery provides backup power during outages. When running on battery, the valve retains its current state and can still open or close if needed. Once AC power is restored, the battery recharges automatically.
Pressure and Temperature
- Maximum operating pressure: 1.6 MPa / 232 PSI
- Water operating temperature: 0 degrees C to 70 degrees C (32 degrees F to 158 degrees F)
These ranges cover standard residential water supply conditions. If your home has exceptionally high water pressure, a pressure reducing valve (PRV) upstream of the PlumBuddy valve is recommended.
Wireless Connectivity
- WiFi standard: 802.11 b/g/n
- Frequency: 2.4 GHz only (5 GHz is not supported)
- Recommended range: Within 100 feet of WiFi router
The valve does not support 5 GHz WiFi. This is intentional — 2.4 GHz provides better range and wall penetration, which is important for a device typically installed in basements, utility closets, or garages.
Installation
- Installation type: Professional installation by a licensed plumber required
- Orientation: Horizontal installation preferred for best flow detection accuracy; vertical installation is possible
- Flow direction: Arrow marking on valve body indicates correct flow direction
- Minimum height: 18 inches above grade recommended when installed on a slab or low entry point
What Is Included
- (1) PlumBuddy Motorized Water Shut-Off Valve
- (1) USB-C Power Cable (10 feet)
- (1) USB-C Power Adapter
- (1) 3.6V D Battery (backup power)
Additional Materials Needed
Your plumber will provide the fittings and tools needed for installation, which may include:
- Union fittings or threaded adapters compatible with 3/4”, 1”, or 1-1/4” valve sizes
- Pipe cutter for copper, PEX, or CPVC
- Thread sealant tape
- Mounting straps or supports if needed
Certifications and Safety
- Installation must be performed by a licensed plumber to maintain warranty
- All work must comply with local plumbing and building codes
- Do not install on fire suppression lines
- Do not disassemble the valve/flow body assembly
- Apply torque only to pipe fittings, never to the valve body itself
- Keep the valve in a dry, accessible, and protected area
- Do not expose to direct sunlight, standing water, or freezing conditions