?Are you looking for a smart water meter and shutoff that gives you real-time leak protection, long battery life, and reliable coverage even where Wi‑Fi is weak?
Quick answer
You get a robust, all-in-one solution with the NSF Certified YoLink FlowSmart All-in-One Smart Water Meter & Auto Shutoff for 1.5″ Pipes, LoRa Long-Range, Real-Time Leak Detection, 10-Year Battery, 80+ Device Ecosystem, Hub Included – YS5018 that focuses on safety and resilience. If you want automated leak shutoff, accurate flow measurement for household and light-commercial service, and long-term, low-maintenance operation, this device is built for those priorities.
NSF Certified YoLink FlowSmart All-in-One Smart Water Meter & Auto Shutoff for 1.5
$480.69 In Stock
What the NSF Certified YoLink FlowSmart All-in-One Smart Water Meter & Auto Shutoff for 1.5″ Pipes, LoRa Long-Range, Real-Time Leak Detection, 10-Year Battery, 80+ Device Ecosystem, Hub Included – YS5018 is
You’re looking at an integrated ultrasonic water meter combined with a motorized shutoff valve designed for potable water applications and sized by nominal pipe size (NPS). The YS5018 includes the valve and meter assembly in a single unit and ships with a required YoLink Hub to provide connectivity and cloud features.
What you should expect in the package
You’ll receive the FlowSmart device sized to the nominal pipe you chose and a Hub is included in the product listing so you aren’t left hunting for a gateway. The enclosure and valve are pre-assembled, and documentation outlines sizing, mounting, and the steps to pair with the YoLink Hub and app.
Key specifications
You’ll want a clear, quick reference for the most important specs before you pick an installation spot. The table below breaks down the core technical details so you can compare them to your water line and system needs.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product name | NSF Certified YoLink FlowSmart All-in-One Smart Water Meter & Auto Shutoff – YS5018 |
| Valve type | Motorized shutoff valve integrated with ultrasonic flow meter |
| Pipe compatibility | Nominal pipe sizes (NPS): 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″, 1-3/4″, 1-1/2″, 2″ (this listing: 1.5″) |
| Measurement method | Ultrasonic flow measurement (internal tube slightly smaller than NPS for accuracy) |
| Leak detection | Real-time detection with auto-shutoff and scheduling |
| Radio | LoRa long-range, low-power radio |
| Hub required | YoLink Hub included (Ethernet or 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi connectivity) |
| Cloud & local rules | Cloud control + D2D (device-to-device) offline rules for critical actions |
| Integration | Works with Alexa, IFTTT, Home Assistant |
| Battery life | 10+ year battery design (multi-year operation expected) |
| Typical use | Potable water, household and light-commercial service flows |
| Certification | NSF certified for potable-water applications |
Design and build quality
You’ll notice that the FlowSmart puts function first, with a compact assembled unit that combines meter and valve for fewer leak points and simpler plumbing. The integrated design also reduces the number of fittings you need to manage during install and keeps the measurement path stable for consistent readings.
Valve & meter assembly
The motorized shutoff is paired directly to the ultrasonic meter so the valve sees the same water it measures, reducing mismatch between measurement and action. You’ll appreciate that the meter’s internal measurement tube is intentionally smaller than the nominal pipe to ensure stable, accurate ultrasonic readings.
Materials & durability
YoLink designs the assembly for potable water and typical household or light-commercial service, meaning you can expect materials that meet drinking-water compatibility and reasonable corrosion resistance. You should still plan for standard plumbing best practices: install in protected locations, avoid prolonged exposure to freezing conditions, and follow the manufacturer’s torque and sealing instructions.
Sizing and flow considerations
You’ll pick the device by nominal pipe size (NPS), but the actual ultrasonic measurement tube is smaller by design—this helps the meter meet accuracy standards and stabilize low-flow readings. Keep in mind that the device is engineered for typical domestic and light-commercial flow ranges; extremely high or atypical hydraulic conditions may require a specialist meter.
Installation & setup
You’ll find that installation is straightforward if you’re comfortable with basic plumbing work or have a licensed plumber available for the physical hookup. Electrical or network wiring is minimal because the device is battery-powered and communicates wirelessly through the YoLink Hub.
Mechanical installation
You’ll thread the FlowSmart into your pipe run using the indicated NPS threads; because the sensor tube is internal and smaller, you won’t change your external thread connections. Make sure to follow the flow direction on the body, use approved thread sealants where needed, and provide enough clearance for the motorized actuator.
Setup with YoLink Hub
You’ll use the included YoLink Hub to bridge between the device’s LoRa network and your home network or internet. Pairing is handled through the YoLink app, the Hub supports Ethernet or 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi, and the process is designed to be user-friendly with on-screen prompts.
Mounting and access
You’ll want to mount the unit where you can access the valve for manual override and service, but not in a location where it’s constantly exposed to the elements. If you need a freeze-proof installation, either heat the area or follow local code for freeze protection; the device itself is not a substitute for proper plumbing insulation.
Performance
You’ll be relying on three performance pillars: accurate flow measurement, sensitive leak detection, and fast auto‑shutoff when needed. In practice, the ultrasonic meter plus the motorized valve gives you both measurement and action in one compact package.
Leak detection & auto-shutoff
You’ll get real-time leak detection that can automatically close the valve when abnormal use or a persistent leak is detected. The system supports scheduling and alert thresholds, so you can tune how quickly it reacts and avoid nuisance shutoffs during legitimate high-usage events.
Flow measurement accuracy
You’ll benefit from ultrasonic measurement that doesn’t rely on moving parts, which helps with longevity and the ability to measure low flows more consistently than many mechanical meters. Because the flow tube is sized for stability, you’ll often see better repeatability and fewer drift issues over the long term.
Real-world responsiveness
You’ll notice the LoRa connectivity is designed for long-range, low-power messages and the YoLink Hub handles cloud reporting; shutoff actions can be instant if your rules are local (D2D) or slightly delayed if they go through the cloud. In many real-world installs the combination of local device-to-device rules and cloud alerts provides a good balance of fast action and centralized monitoring.
Battery life & power
You’ll love the promise of a 10+ year battery design because it minimizes maintenance and keeps the system functioning without frequent battery swaps. That long-life claim is realistic for devices that use LoRa and operate with power-efficient duty cycles, but actual life depends on your activity and how often the valve operates.
10+ year battery design
You’ll get a long-life power system optimized for low-power radio and occasional actuator use, so the device is largely passive until a measurement, alert, or shutoff event requires action. The long battery life is a major convenience factor for hard-to-reach installations or properties where routine visits are costly.
What affects battery life
You’ll shorten battery life when the valve cycles frequently (for example, repeated tests or frequent leak events), when signal quality forces higher transmission retries, or when telemetry frequency is increased in the app. You’ll also see slightly reduced life in very cold conditions or when repeated mechanical operation draws battery for motorized shutoffs.
Connectivity & network
You’ll be using LoRa as the device radio and the YoLink Hub to bridge to your local network or the internet. This setup is purposeful: LoRa offers long-range, low-power communication that is more resilient than Wi‑Fi for devices placed in basements, meter rooms, or far from the router.
LoRa long-range radio
You’ll get a purpose-built, low-power radio designed to cover whole-home or building environments where Wi‑Fi signals often struggle. The longer radio range and low power draw mean better reach to hard-to-wire locations and improved reliability for simple telemetry.
Hub & Internet options
You’ll connect the YoLink Hub to your network via Ethernet or 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi, and the Hub will relay device messages to the YoLink cloud and your app. Because the Hub can connect via wired or wireless methods, you can choose the most stable option for your installation environment.
Device-to-device (D2D) offline rules
You’ll appreciate that critical shutoff actions can be configured to run without internet thanks to YoLink’s D2D rules. This means that even if your internet goes down, you can still have local logic that closes the valve automatically on certain triggers, improving resiliency for critical scenarios.
Integrations & smart home compatibility
You’ll be able to integrate the FlowSmart into broader automation scenarios since YoLink supports major smart home platforms. The real power is combining real-time water data and automatic shutoff with your existing voice assistants or home automation flows.
Alexa, IFTTT, Home Assistant
You’ll use Alexa for voice notifications or simple commands, IFTTT for lightweight third-party automations, and Home Assistant for advanced local automation if you prefer a self-hosted control plane. Those integrations let you combine leak detection with other actions like turning off water when smoke alarms trigger or notifying a property manager automatically.
API & advanced integrations
You’ll have options for advanced users to connect via YoLink’s ecosystem or platform APIs to custom dashboards, building management systems, or other monitoring backends. If you need high-resolution logging or enterprise integrations, investigate YoLink’s developer resources and community guidance.
User experience
You’ll interact with the system mainly through the YoLink mobile app for setup, notifications, and scheduling, while the Hub and D2D rules handle critical local automation. The app typically presents current flow, historical usage, alert settings, and manual valve control.
Mobile app & alerts
You’ll receive push notifications for leak alerts, valve closures, and battery warnings, with the ability to manually open or close the valve from your phone. The app also stores historical flow data so you can review unusual consumption or detect slow leaks over time.
Scheduling & control
You’ll be able to schedule automatic valve closures for times when you expect the house to be vacant or when seasonal shutoff is appropriate. You’ll also set sensitivity thresholds and delay settings to avoid false triggers from transient events like a brief irrigation cycle.
Use cases & who it’s for
You’ll find value from this device whether you own a single-family home, manage multiple rental properties, or operate a light-commercial facility that needs leak control and flow visibility. The combination of long battery life, LoRa range, and local shutoff logic is particularly strong for properties where internet or Wi‑Fi reliability is inconsistent.
Homeowners
You’ll reduce the risk of catastrophic water damage with automatic shutoff and remote notifications, which is especially useful if you travel frequently or have a second home. You’ll also use the flow meter data to detect abnormal usage patterns and conserve water.
Property managers & light commercial
You’ll monitor multiple units or sites with a single ecosystem and automate shutoff when a leak is detected rather than sending maintenance out for every call. You’ll also appreciate that the Hub supports many YoLink devices, so you can centralize environmental sensors and controls.
Vacation homes & remote properties
You’ll benefit from long-range communication and device-to-device resiliency when you can’t rely on a local Wi‑Fi network or frequent site visits. You’ll get peace of mind knowing the valve can close automatically and alert you when something goes wrong.
Maintenance, troubleshooting & support
You’ll need to plan for occasional checks: battery status, valve exercise, and firmware updates as part of long-term reliability. YoLink offers documentation and support, and you should keep the Hub accessible and updated to make sure remote features and integrations stay healthy.
Common issues & fixes
You’ll likely encounter a few typical issues like weak LoRa signal in dense basements, valve stuck from mineral buildup in very hard water, or app pairing hiccups. You’ll generally resolve these by moving the Hub for better signal, following manufacturer cleaning guidelines, or re-pairing the device in the app.
Firmware & updates
You’ll receive firmware updates via the YoLink Hub and cloud infrastructure that can improve stability and add features; make sure the Hub is online for these to be applied. You’ll also want to document firmware versions if you manage multiple sites so you know when updates changed behavior.
Pros and Cons
You’ll want a quick rundown of the main benefits and trade-offs so you can judge fit for your situation. Below are the highlights to weigh against installation needs and budget.
Pros:
- You’ll get an integrated ultrasonic meter and motorized shutoff in one device, reducing plumbing complexity.
- You’ll benefit from LoRa long-range radio that works better in challenging RF environments than Wi‑Fi.
- You’ll enjoy multi-year battery life that minimizes maintenance visits.
- You’ll have offline D2D rules that keep critical shutoff logic working without internet.
- You’ll be able to integrate with Alexa, IFTTT, and Home Assistant for flexible automations.
Cons:
- You’ll need the YoLink Hub (included) and may need to position it for optimal coverage.
- You’ll incur a higher upfront cost than a non-smart valve or basic mechanical meter.
- You’ll want professional plumbing help if you’re not comfortable with pipe installation or NPS thread connections.
- You’ll need to understand the device’s flow range limits; very high-flow, atypical systems may not be ideal.
Price & value
You’ll weigh the price against the potential savings from avoided water damage, reduced insurance premiums, and lower maintenance headaches. The FlowSmart is positioned as a premium, reliability-focused product and delivers value if you prioritize long-term protection and resilient connectivity.
Is it worth it?
You’ll find it worthwhile if preventing even a single major water loss or being able to remotely shut off water is important to you. If you manage multiple properties or need a low-maintenance, reliable solution in hard-to-wire areas, the FlowSmart’s battery life and LoRa range increase the return on investment.
Alternatives & comparisons
You’ll want to compare to other smart shutoff or meter options that use Wi‑Fi, Z‑Wave, Zigbee, or cellular connectivity; each has its pros and cons. The FlowSmart is unique in pairing LoRa long-range radio with an integrated ultrasonic meter and local D2D rules, making it distinct from many Wi‑Fi-only or mains-powered options.
Compared to Wi‑Fi smart shutoffs
You’ll get better reach and battery life with FlowSmart’s LoRa radio compared to many Wi‑Fi-based valves that require constant radio power and proximity to the router. You’ll trade off higher data throughput (for high-frequency telemetry) for longer battery life and more resilient connection in remote corners of a building.
Compared to mains-powered systems
You’ll lose the unlimited power advantage of mains-powered devices, but you’ll gain installation flexibility and lower wiring cost because FlowSmart is battery-powered. You’ll still want to consider actuator cycle limits and battery replacement intervals if your system experiences many events.
Final verdict
You’ll find the NSF Certified YoLink FlowSmart All-in-One Smart Water Meter & Auto Shutoff for 1.5″ Pipes, LoRa Long-Range, Real-Time Leak Detection, 10-Year Battery, 80+ Device Ecosystem, Hub Included – YS5018 is a thoughtfully engineered choice for people who want reliable leak detection, automated shutoff, and long-term low maintenance. The integration of ultrasonic metering, a motorized valve, LoRa long-range radio, and D2D offline rules creates a resilient system that fits homes, rental properties, and light-commercial sites where safety and uptime matter.
You’ll still want to confirm sizing carefully, consider professional installation for threaded plumbing connections, and place the Hub for best LoRa coverage. If those considerations fit your situation, this product is likely to give you the peace of mind and operational resilience you’re after.
Frequently asked questions
How do I pick the right pipe size for my installation?
You’ll select the FlowSmart based on the nominal pipe size (NPS) you currently have, matching the thread compatibility on your line. Keep in mind the internal ultrasonic tube is smaller by design, so you should verify the device’s recommended flow ranges and check local plumbing codes or consult a plumber if you’re unsure.
What happens if the internet goes down—will the valve still close?
You’ll be protected because YoLink supports device-to-device (D2D) rules which can run locally without internet, allowing critical shutoff automation to continue offline. You’ll want to configure those local rules carefully and test them after installation to make sure they behave as you expect.
How often will you need to replace the battery?
You’ll typically see multi-year operation and YoLink’s design goal is a 10+ year battery life under normal conditions. You’ll shorten battery life with frequent valve actuation, high telemetry rates, or poor signal conditions that increase radio retries, so monitor battery notifications in the app.
Can this work with Home Assistant and other automation systems?
You’ll be able to integrate the FlowSmart with Home Assistant, Alexa, and IFTTT, and YoLink provides pathways for more advanced integrations if required. You’ll want to consult YoLink’s integration documentation for instructions on pairing with your preferred system and for custom automation scenarios.
Is this meter accurate enough for billing or only for leak detection?
You’ll find ultrasonic measurement provides strong accuracy and stability for usage monitoring and leak detection, and the meter is engineered to meet accuracy standards for typical household and light-commercial flows. You’ll check local regulations and accuracy requirements when you intend to use it for official billing, as certified billing meters sometimes require additional calibration or approvals.
What maintenance should you plan for over time?
You’ll perform occasional checks for battery level, exercise the valve periodically to prevent sticking, and ensure the Hub is online for firmware updates. You’ll also follow any water-quality recommendations from YoLink—hard water or high-mineral content might require additional preventive steps to protect the valve internals.
If you want, you can tell me about your specific plumbing layout, whether you have a basement meter vault, or if you manage multiple properties and I’ll help you decide if the YS5018 is the right fit and what you should plan for during installation.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.