How does a water sensor work and why use one with your Detroit smart home?

One tiny leak at your property can cause big problems and thousands in damage. You have to defend against this threat; luckily, there’s an easy way to do so. A water sensor is an affordable, simple, and effective solution. Explore how they work and why you should incorporate water sensors into your Detroit smart home.

How water sensors shield Detroit your home

Water penetrates homes in various ways, whether from a weather-related event, plumbing problem, appliance malfunction, or just human error. However it occurs, you have to know at once, and this is how water sensors help. But how exactly do they work? 

The majority of water sensors are conductive and function with two electrodes. When water infiltrates the area between the electrodes, an electrical circuit is created, setting off your alarm. You’ll also find capacitive sensors that give off an electrical field. Your alarm activates when water reaches the conductive parts of these sensors and disrupts the field. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are another choice.

Some water sensors give you more

Certain specialized water sensors offer even more peace of mind as they feature integrated temperature sensors. This is a smart way to prevent frozen pipes. If there’s an extreme decrease in temperature, you’ll find out right away. Taking steps before pipes break will save you from flooding and exorbitant repair costs.

Why incorporate water sensors into your Detroit smart home? 

When water problems occur, you need to be warned right away. You can reach this objective by integrating water sensors into your smart home. Whether you’re on site to hear the alarm or away, you’ll receive an automatic update on your smartphone. As an additional backup, your 24/7 monitoring team will be alerted. Every second is critical in a water emergency to minimize the destruction and interruption to your life.

Where should you place water sensors?

Any area susceptible to flooding is a suitable place for water sensors. Install them in these spots:

• Bathrooms: Place at the back of toilets or next to tubs.
• Basements: Water commonly infiltrates lower levels through leaky walls or due to excess rain or broken sump pumps.
• Next to water heaters or appliances: Any water-connected appliance could over time leak.
• Below sinks: Water sensors are perfect for identifying pipe leaks in locations hidden from view.
• Attics: Detect roof leaks early and prevent expensive repairs.

Get water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your home the complete protection it deserves with Vivint’s modern tools. Our water sensors in Detroit integrate with your Vivint smartphone app to send you automatic alerts whenever your alarm is triggered. You also enjoy integrated temperature sensors to avoid pipe freezing. Discover all the smart home tools available in Detroit by reaching out to (313) 766-2527 today.