Question 1

How do I set up RootBeacon?

Accepted Answer

Three steps: slide the sensor probe onto the tube, press the probe gently into the soil next to your plant, and fill the tube with water to the Max line. Close the lid. Done.

Question 2

What plants does it work with?

Accepted Answer

Most potted plants — from succulents to tropicals. It's not designed for hydroponic systems.

Question 3

What pot sizes does it work with?

Accepted Answer

6-inch diameter and larger is recommended for best contact between the sensor probe and the root zone.

Question 4

How does the mechanical sensor work without electronics?

Accepted Answer

Capillary action and surface tension. When soil is dry, water flows; when soil moisture reaches the sensor's threshold, those forces create a mechanical seal that stops flow — the same principle that keeps a wet sponge from dripping.

Question 5

How often do I need to refill it?

Accepted Answer

Depends on plant, soil, and conditions — typically every 1–3 weeks for indoor plants.

Question 6

Does it overwater?

Accepted Answer

No. The sensor mechanically stops flow when soil is moist.

Question 7

What happens if I overfill the tube?

Accepted Answer

Don't exceed the Max line — overfilling can affect the sensor seal.

Question 8

How much water does the tube hold?

Accepted Answer

The reservoir holds 550mL (about 18.6 fluid ounces) when filled to the Max line.

Question 9

How tall is the device?

Accepted Answer

The tube is 310mm (12.2 inches) tall. With the lid attached, the total assembled height is approximately 317mm. About 248mm (9.8 inches) sits above the soil line when properly installed.

Question 10

What pot sizes does RootBeacon fit?

Accepted Answer

RootBeacon is designed for pots 6 inches in diameter or larger, with at least 5 inches of soil depth. The sensor probe needs about 62mm (2.44 inches) of soil depth for proper operation.

Question 11

What's the device made of?

Accepted Answer

The tube is BPA-free food-grade clear plastic. The lid and sensor probe are made of durable plastic. All materials are RoHS and REACH compliant.

Question 12

Is the product certified for the US market?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The product is RoHS and REACH compliant, and we have US Declarations of Conformity available upon request.

Question 13

Does the sensor need to be replaced?

Accepted Answer

For optimal performance, we recommend replacing the sensor section after about one year of use. Based on manufacturer testing, the mechanical sensor maintains its accuracy for approximately 12 months. After that, the device may release slightly more water over time — these changes are gradual rather than sudden, and many customers continue using their original sensor well past a year with acceptable results. Replacement sensors are available in our shop for $12.97. The swap takes less than a minute — no tools required. Why annual replacement? The mechanical moisture sensor relies on precise surface tension and capillary properties of the sensor material. Over time, mineral deposits from water and natural wear can slightly alter these properties. Replacement keeps the sensing performance at its best.

Question 14

Is it safe outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Yes — UV-stable materials. Bring indoors before freezing temperatures.

Question 15

Will it freeze in winter?

Accepted Answer

Water in the tube can freeze and damage the device. Store empty indoors below 32°F.

Question 16

What are the electronic upgrade modules?

Accepted Answer

Programmable lid modules that replace the standard lid. They add timing controls while preserving the mechanical sensor as a safety net.

Question 17

Do I need them?

Accepted Answer

No. The mechanical RootBeacon works on its own. Modules are optional.

Question 18

Can I add them later?

Accepted Answer

Yes — modules are designed to be added at any time.

Question 19

How long does shipping take?

Accepted Answer

Standard shipping in 10–12 business days within the US.

Question 20

Do you ship internationally?

Accepted Answer

Yes, to most countries. Rates calculated at checkout.

Question 21

What's your return policy?

Accepted Answer

We offer a 30-day money-back guarantee on every RootBeacon order. If you're not satisfied for any reason, return your unused or lightly used product within 30 days of delivery for a full refund — no questions, no hassle. Used items in good condition are eligible since you may need to actually try RootBeacon in a pot before deciding it's right for you. To initiate a return, email us at team@rootbeacon.com with your order number. We'll respond within one business day with return instructions and a prepaid return label.

Question 22

Who pays for return shipping?

Accepted Answer

We do. Returns within 30 days come with a prepaid return shipping label at no cost to you.

Question 23

How long does it take to get my refund?

Accepted Answer

Once we receive your returned item, refunds are processed within 3-5 business days. Depending on your bank or card issuer, the refund may take an additional 3-7 days to appear on your statement.

Question 24

Can I return a used RootBeacon?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We understand that you may need to actually try RootBeacon in your plants to know if it works for your setup. Lightly used products in good condition are fully eligible for the 30-day guarantee.

Question 25

What's the warranty?

Accepted Answer

90-day RootBeacon Guarantee. If your device fails within 90 days of receipt, we'll replace it at no cost. No questions, no hassle. This is separate from our 30-day money-back guarantee (return for any reason within 30 days for a full refund). For ongoing optimal performance, we recommend annual sensor replacement — $12.97 replacement sensors are available in our shop.

Question 26

Do you offer wholesale pricing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. See our retailers page to request a wholesale catalog.

Question 27

Do you offer volume discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes — see the commercial page for custom quotes.

Question 28

How do I become a dealer?

Accepted Answer

Submit the dealer form on our retailers page; we respond within two business days.

Questions, answered.

Getting started

How it works

Specifications

Electronic modules

Orders and shipping

Commercial / wholesale