Protecting your home from costly water damage is no small task, but it is possible. It’s worth noting that though your plumbing system can last for decades, over time, the pipes, connections and appliances can spring leaks. Being prepared for such occurrences with water leak sensors can help you avoid flood damage. Let’s explore what a smart plumbing sensor is, and how such a leak detection system can benefit your home.
What Are Common Sources of Leaks?
Your home’s plumbing system consists of pipes, connections, drains, fixtures and appliances (i.e. sump pump, water heater, dishwasher and washing machine). Common sources of visible leaks include dripping faucets or water pooling underneath the kitchen sink. While some leaks are small or easily noticed and fixed, others can go undetected or spill out to cause significant damage.
In the winter months, pipes can freeze and burst as the water inside expands as it changes from a liquid to solid, increasing the potential for flooding. Older unserviced tank-type water heaters can potentially explode (this is a very rare, but real possibility), sending many gallons of water across the floor. Sump pumps without a battery backup can fail when the power goes out, leaving your home’s basement level unprotected from water damage.
In order to avoid flooding and significant water damage, it’s important to consider installing a leak detection system.
Components of A Water Leak Detection System
A water leak detection system includes preventative measures and devices that identify and send alarms when leaks occur in your home. There are several types of water leak sensors available with different functions and capabilities.
Water Leak Detector
The most basic level of sensor is placed on the floor in front of where water might pool should a leak occur. Homeowners commonly place such devices underneath a kitchen sink or next to washing machines, water heaters, dishwashers and sump pumps. The catch is that it won’t detect leaks elsewhere, and that water has to come in contact with the device for an alarm to trigger. Other options include a sensor also paired with an alert system, either via an audible alarm or notification to a phone.
Smart Water Monitor
A smart water monitor is another, more reliable option for identifying leaks. As opposed to being placed on the floor, a smart water monitor is connected to your water supply line. This device detects the flow of water, identifying and alerting the homeowner when water flows too fast and/or long.
Smart Water Shut-off Valve
The most comprehensive flood and leak protection device on the market is a smart water shut-off valve. Like the smart water monitor, this device tracks abnormal conditions that likely indicate a leak is present. But rather than just send an alert, this type of device can also turn off your home’s main water supply, effectively stopping a catastrophic leak.
What Are The Benefits of A Smart Leak Sensor?
Regardless of your choice of leak detection components, having an alert system in place can help save thousands of dollars from potential water damage. Whether it’s a slow leak from underneath the kitchen sink or a burst pipe in the basement, continued water damage can severely impact your home.
Selecting some form of leak sensor helps reduce the chance of serious damage occurring without your knowledge. An advantage of choosing a smart leak sensor is that it can help alert you to flooding at any time, regardless of whether you’re home or not. The last thing anyone wants to come home to after vacation is a burst pipe and flooded basement.
With a smart water shut-off valve, prevention is key. By preventing and/or mitigating such flooding from occurring, you can reduce the cost and extent of the damage. This device provides more peace of mind and security against the risk of flooding. When you want the greatest protection against catastrophic leaks, opt for a smart water shut-off valve.
Beyond being a major inconvenience, flooding and water damage is an expensive problem that requires immediate attention. Minimizing the effect of such issues (or preventing them altogether) with a smart water leak detection system is highly advisable. If you need assistance considering your leak sensor options or assistance installing the devices, reach out to our team of plumbing technicians at Atlas Home Services.
