Water leaks can do serious damage to your home and lead to some very costly repairs. That’s why it’s important to check for leaks on a regular basis and why you should consider installing a water leak detection device.
Not only are water leak detectors readily available at places like home improvement stores, but many types are also easy to install and inexpensive. In fact, you can’t afford not to have one, especially when you consider how expensive it can be to repair a part of the home that’s been damaged by water.
So which water leak detection device is best for your home? Take a look at the most popular types of leak sensors below to find out.
Battery powered alarms
Battery powered leak alarms work by placing them on the floor near water heaters, washing machines and by any other appliances that can leak. In fact, placing one on your basement floor can help detect if your sump pump stops working properly.
Once the sensor detects a leak, it will sound an alarm not unlike a smoke alarm. Once you hear it, you can turn the sensor off and contact a plumber to assess and fix any water damage. These are often the least expensive water leak detectors you can buy, and you can find them at most home improvement stores.
High tech leak alerts
These water leak sensors go a step further than battery powered detectors by sending you an alert via your home’s internet modem. The real advantage with these types of detectors is that you don’t have to be home to learn you’ve got a leak someplace. These systems send alerts to your smartphone and computer when one is detected.
Shut-off systems
A single point shut off system is a great option, especially if you’re worried you won’t be able to return home to remedy the situation once a leak is detected. This system will automatically shut off the water when it detects a leak.
To use this type of leak detection system, you’ll need to plug it into an outlet and place it near the appliance you’re wanting to watch, like a washing machine or a water heater. If a leak occurs, the shut-off valve will quickly turn off the water source.
Note: some shut-off systems can be connected to a home alarm system and many can also shut off electricity to gas powered water heaters.
Entire home shut off systems
Entire home shut off systems are by far the most comprehensive. One of the biggest benefits of these systems is that they can help prevent major flooding, as well. These extensive systems operate after sensors are placed throughout the house.
Full shut off systems can detect everything from frozen pipes to a leaking toilet, and then turn off the water supply. Many offer a Wi-Fi feature so you can access alerts from your smartphone or computer.
Remember: One of the easiest ways to prevent water leaks is to check for them on a regular basis. Look around your faucets, at the base of the toilet, and inspect pipes, supply hoses and shut-off valves to determine whether or not you have a leak. And never wait to fix a leak if you find one. Otherwise, it could lead to a costly repair down the road.
Want to learn more about water leak detectors for your home? Give the team at Allied Reddi-Rooter a call or click to Contact us. We’re serious about leak prevention and are here to help you prevent leaks in your home, so you don’t have to spend money on repairs. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service. You can follow us on Facebook, @Allied Reddi-Rooter for the latest tips or to ask us a question.