1. Product Overview
The Ecowitt WH55 is a wireless water leak detection sensor designed to alert you to water seepage. When water is detected, the sensor triggers a loud 90dB audio alarm. For enhanced monitoring, the sensor can transmit data wirelessly to a compatible Ecowitt Wi-Fi Gateway (sold separately), allowing you to view live data and receive alerts via the WS View Plus or Ecowitt mobile application.
Image 1.1: Ecowitt WH55 Wireless Water Leak Detection Sensor.
Key Features:
- Detects water seepage every 3 seconds.
- Emits a loud 90dB alarm upon detection.
- Adjustable sensor sensitivity (high or low).
- Wireless data transmission to compatible Ecowitt Wi-Fi gateways (e.g., GW1100, GW1000).
- Live data viewing and remote monitoring via WS View Plus or Ecowitt mobile applications.
- Email alerts available through the Ecowitt Weather Server (ecowitt.net).
- Supports up to 4 channels per gateway for multiple sensors.
- Battery power level display on the app.
2. Setup and Installation
2.1 Package Contents
The package includes one Ecowitt WH55 Multi-channel Water Leak Sensor. Please note that 2x 1.5V AAA batteries are not included and must be purchased separately.
2.2 Component Identification
Image 2.1: Exploded view of the WH55 sensor.
- Buzzer (inside the device)
- Battery cover
- LED indicator
- Dip switches for multi-channel and sensitivity settings
- Sensor contact
2.3 Battery Installation
- Open the battery cover on the back of the sensor.
- Insert two (2) 1.5V AAA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Close the battery cover securely.
2.4 Sensitivity and Channel Settings
The WH55 sensor features dip switches inside the battery compartment to adjust sensitivity and select a channel. Each compatible gateway supports up to four WH55 sensors, each requiring a unique channel setting (CH1, CH2, CH3, or CH4).
Image 2.2: Sensor dimensions and dip switch configuration.
- Sensitivity: Use the 'High sensitivity' or 'Low sensitivity' dip switch to adjust. Low sensitivity is the factory default. High sensitivity is recommended for detecting minimal water presence.
- Channel Selection: Set the channel (CH1-CH4) using the corresponding dip switches. Ensure each WH55 sensor paired with the same gateway is set to a different channel.
Image 2.3: Internal view showing battery placement and dip switches for customization.
2.5 Pairing with a Wi-Fi Gateway (Sold Separately)
To enable app monitoring and remote alerts, the WH55 sensor must be paired with a compatible Ecowitt Wi-Fi Gateway (e.g., GW1100, GW1000). Follow the gateway's instructions for initial setup and Wi-Fi configuration.
- Ensure your Ecowitt Wi-Fi Gateway is powered on and connected to your Wi-Fi network.
- Open the WS View Plus or Ecowitt mobile application on your smartphone.
- Navigate to the device management section within the app and add the WH55 sensor. The app will guide you through the pairing process.
- Once paired, the sensor data will appear on the app's live data page.
Image 2.4: GW1000 Wi-Fi Gateway and live data display on the WS View Plus app.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Water Leak Detection
The WH55 sensor continuously monitors for water presence at its sensor contacts. When water bridges these contacts, the sensor immediately triggers its internal 90dB audio alarm. Simultaneously, if paired with a gateway, it transmits a leak detection signal to the gateway.
Image 3.1: The sensor emits a loud alarm when water seepage is detected.
3.2 Remote Monitoring and Alerts
After successful pairing with a Wi-Fi gateway and configuration on the WS View Plus or Ecowitt app, you can:
- View Live Data: Monitor the current status of your water leak sensors (e.g., 'Normal' or 'Leaking') directly from the app.
- Receive Email Alerts: If your gateway is successfully added to the free Ecowitt Weather Server (ecowitt.net), you can configure email alerts to be sent when a water leak is detected.
Image 3.2: App interface demonstrating live data and email alert configuration for water leak conditions.
3.3 Recommended Placement Locations
Place the WH55 sensor in areas prone to water leaks or flooding. Common locations include:
- Under-the-sink cabinets in kitchens or bathrooms.
- Near water heaters.
- In basements or near sump pumps.
- Behind toilets.
- Near washing machines, humidifiers, or AC units.
- Under ice-making refrigerators.
Image 3.3: Various recommended locations for sensor placement to protect your home.
4. Maintenance
4.1 Battery Replacement
The sensor requires two (2) AAA batteries. When the battery level is low, an alert may be displayed on the WS View Plus or Ecowitt app. To replace batteries:
- Open the battery cover on the back of the device.
- Remove the old batteries.
- Insert new 1.5V AAA batteries, observing correct polarity.
- Securely close the battery cover.
4.2 Cleaning
Wipe the sensor's exterior with a soft, damp cloth as needed. Ensure the sensor contacts at the bottom of the device are kept clean and free of debris to maintain optimal detection performance. Do not use abrasive cleaners or immerse the device in water.
5. Troubleshooting
- Sensor not alarming or reporting leaks:
- Check battery level and replace if necessary.
- Ensure sensor contacts are clean and making proper contact with water.
- Verify the sensitivity setting (High/Low) is appropriate for the environment.
- If connected to a gateway, ensure the gateway is powered on and connected to Wi-Fi.
- No data on the app:
- Confirm the sensor is paired correctly with the gateway.
- Check that the gateway and your smartphone are on the same Wi-Fi network during initial setup and for live data viewing.
- Ensure the sensor's channel setting does not conflict with other sensors.
- False alarms:
- Adjust the sensitivity to 'Low' using the dip switch if the sensor is triggering due to high humidity or condensation.
- Ensure the sensor is placed on a dry, stable surface.
- Alarm is too loud/cannot be silenced:
- The 90dB alarm is designed to be loud for immediate attention. To silence, remove the sensor from the water source and dry its contacts. There is no dedicated silence button.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power | 2 x 1.5V AAA batteries (not included) |
| Sensor Size | 95 x 45 x 22.8 mm (approximately 3.74 x 1.77 x 0.9 inches) |
| Frequency | 915 MHz (for North America), 868 MHz (for Europe), 433 MHz (for other areas) |
| Wireless Transmitting Range | 100 meters (300 feet) in open air |
| Alarm Decibel | 90 dB |
| Sensor Detecting Interval | 3 seconds |
| Sensor Reporting Interval | 60 seconds |
| Waterproof Level | IP44 (splash proof) |
| Working Temperature | 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°F) |
| Control Method | App (via compatible gateway) |
| Sensor Technology | Contact Sensor |
7. Warranty and Support
7.1 Warranty Information
Ecowitt products typically come with a limited manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Ecowitt website for detailed warranty terms and conditions.
7.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or product inquiries, please visit the Ecowitt Weather Server at www.ecowitt.net or contact Ecowitt customer service through their official channels.
