Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI) is a measure of how strong the connection is between your Crystal Water Monitor and your home Wi-Fi network. The monitor checks in every 20 minutes, and each check-in includes a signal strength reading so you can see how reliably your monitor is staying connected.
Signal strength is measured in decibels relative to a milliwatt (dBm) and is expressed as a negative number. The closer the value is to zero, the stronger the signal. For example, -50 dBm is a strong signal, while -85 dBm is weak.
Signal Status Levels
- Good: 0 to -80. The monitor has a strong, reliable connection to your Wi-Fi network. No action needed.
- Fair: -80 to -90. The signal is adequate but weaker than ideal. The monitor should continue checking in reliably, but if you notice missed check-ins, improving the signal strength would help.
- Poor: -90 and lower. The signal is weak and the monitor may struggle to check in consistently. Consider moving your router closer to the monitor or adding a Wi-Fi extender near the pool equipment area.
What causes a weak signal?
Wi-Fi signal degrades with distance and physical obstacles. Common causes of poor signal at a pool monitor include:
- Distance from the router to the Crystal Water Monitor
- Walls, especially those with concrete, brick, or metal lathe
- Other wireless devices causing interference
- The Crystal Water Monitor being installed in a metal equipment enclosure
Tips for improving signal
- Move the monitor closer to your Wifi access point.
- Add an outdoor wifi repeater or access point.
- A Wi-Fi range extender or mesh network node placed closer (but indoors) to the Crystal Water Monitor can also be an effective solution.