Flo by Moen Smart Shutoff
VERDICT
This device sleeps with one eye open so you can sleep soundly. It is the most advanced residential water monitoring system available. While installation requires a plumber, the ability to automatically shut off water during a catastrophic leak makes it worth every penny. It’s not a gadget; it’s essential infrastructure.
The Big Picture
Water damage is 5x more likely than theft and causing more financial loss than fire. Yet, our plumbing is "dumb." Flo by Moen changes this. It learns your water usage patterns (e.g., showers at 7 AM, laundry on Sundays). If it detects high flow at 2 AM (a burst pipe), it acts instantly, shutting off the main valve before your basement floods.
🛡️ MicroLeak™ Technology
The Health Test: Every night, the device shuts off your water for a few minutes to test pressure.
The Result: It can detect leaks as small as one drop per minute (like a pinhole in a pipe behind a wall). It alerts you to fix small problems before they become disasters.
🚰 Usage Monitoring
Knowledge is power.
The Data: It shows you exactly how many gallons you used for showers vs. irrigation. It helps you identify where you are wasting water and money. It also monitors water temperature to warn you of freezing pipes before they burst.
✅ The Pros
- Prevents catastrophic water damage automatically.
- Daily health tests catch hidden leaks.
- Many home insurance companies offer discounts for installing it.
- 5-year warranty (if you subscribe to FloProtect).
❌ The Cons
- Requires professional installation (cutting pipes).
- Expensive hardware (~$400-$500).
- Can sometimes trigger "false alarms" (e.g., if you take a very long shower) until it learns your habits.
🤔 Should you buy it?
YES for every homeowner. The peace of mind is priceless, and the insurance discount helps pay for it.
NO if you live in an apartment where you don't have access to the main water line.
See the showdown: Flo by Moen vs. Phyn Plus Comparison