A major water leak can strike at any time, and discovering it hours—or days—later can spell disaster. Imagine being miles away when your neighbor calls to say water is pouring out of your front door. With Moen Flow, you can shut off your home’s water supply using an app on your phone—protecting your property from extensive damage. In this guide, you’ll learn how to install the Flow by Moen smart valve, set up its app, and give yourself (and your clients) peace of mind.
Why a Smart Valve?
- Immediate Leak Shutoff
If the Flow by Moen device senses unusual continuous flow, it can automatically stop your water after five minutes—even if you’re asleep or away from home. - Remote Control
Via the Moen app, you can turn water on or off anywhere you have a cell signal. No more frantic calls to neighbors or plumbers to rush over just to shut a main valve. - Proactive Water Monitoring
The valve learns your household’s water usage patterns and sends notifications for anomalies—like a hose accidentally left running or a hidden leak in a slab.
Tools & Materials
- Flow by Moen Valve (Sized appropriately for your main water line; e.g., 1 inch or 3/4 inch)
- Fittings/Adapters (Provided in the kit or from your plumbing supply)
- Cutting & Press Tools (If you’re installing on copper, you might need a press tool or torch with fittings)
- Measuring Tape & Marker (To measure the pipe segment you’ll remove)
- Smartphone (Android or iOS with the Moen app installed)
Step-by-Step Installation
1. Plan & Measure
- Identify the main water line entering your home. This is typically the spot before any internal branch lines.
- Shut off water at the city meter (or upstream valve) to ensure you can cut into the line safely.
- Measure the flow valve’s total length (including adapters). You’ll need to remove that much pipe.
2. Cut & Remove Pipe
- Mark the start and end points where you will cut out the existing pipe.
- Use the appropriate cutting tool (e.g., a press cutter for copper).
- Carefully remove the cut-out segment.
3. Assemble the Valve with Adapters
- Check the orientation: The arrow or “flow” label on the Moen device must face the direction of water flow.
- If using sweat or press fittings, ensure you have the correct connectors.
- Dry fit all pieces together with the provided spacer. Confirm alignment and measure again to be sure it fits properly.
4. Make the Final Connections
- Slide the valve assembly into place.
- Attach or press your fittings according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Double-check that the spacer is removed (if used) and that the valve is oriented correctly.
5. Power & App Setup
- Plug the power adapter into a nearby electrical outlet and connect it to the valve’s port.
- Download the “Moen” app from your phone’s App Store or Google Play.
- Create (or log into) your Moen account.
- Follow in-app instructions to pair the valve via Wi-Fi:
- Press and hold the reset button on the valve until the LED starts blinking.
- Scan the QR code on the valve.
- Wait for the app to confirm pairing.
- Assign the device a name (e.g., “House Main Valve”) in the app settings.
Using the Moen Flow App
- Live Status
See if water is currently on or off, track flow rates, and get temperature data. - Remote Shutoff
Tap to close your main water line instantly if you suspect a leak or if the system alerts you. - Health Tests
The system can run periodic checks to spot small, ongoing leaks or anomalies. - Notifications
Receive push alerts if Flow detects continuous water usage outside your normal pattern.
Why Offer This to Customers?
- Value-Add Service
As a plumber, you differentiate yourself by offering advanced protection solutions. - Prevent Damage
Homeowners who’ve suffered past floods or slab leaks often crave extra security. - Recurring Business
They may return for expansions, upgrades, or simply because they trust your modern solutions.
Conclusion
Installing the Flow by Moen smart valve is straightforward and brings immediate benefits—real-time leak detection, remote water shutoff, and peace of mind. If you’re a homeowner, it’s an investment that can save thousands in potential water damage. If you’re a plumber, it’s an invaluable add-on that sets you apart and helps your clients sleep easier.
