Automatic shut-off features are best if you want to instantly cut your water source at the first sign of a leak, and temperature sensors are a good idea if you live in an area where pipes are prone to freezing. This detector is intended for underground pipes and is the most expensive on our list, but it comes with a two-year warranty. The device comes with batteries. The contents of this site may not be republished, reprinted, rewritten or recirculated without written permission. Consider the answers to the following frequently asked questions. However, many plug-in water leak detectors have sensor cables that are several feet long, allowing them to detect leaks a significant distance from where the base of the detector is located. If you know your home has plumbing issues, its worth it to buy a leak detector so youre alerted immediately to any flooding problems. Water leaks don't just happen in one area. You can put battery-powered leak sensors anywhere susceptible to water damage, including pipes, sump pumps, washing machines and toilets. Of those, 40 percent of homeowners report dealing with water damage at some point, making it six times more common than house fire damage. A leak detection system typically has sensors, shut-off valves and a centralized hub. Sometimes water leak detector installation requires a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection. All Rights Reserved. The device sends an alert to your phone if it detects a pipe break, microleak, frost or unusual water flow. Basic water sensors only alert you if the primary sensor detects water, but having multiple plug-in sensors is typically more cost-effective than buying different leak detection systems for the various areas of your home. You can install the Resideo Wi-Fi Water Leak Detector around water heaters and sump pumps, and the 4-foot cable sensor can extend the devices capabilities, which is ideal for large areas like basements. There are plenty of reasonably priced devices (including high-tech models) out there to keep you and your home protected. Once the detector is integrated with a smart device, the paired app sets up monitoring routines and tracks history logs to ensure leaks are discovered and noted as soon as possible. Unsubscribe easily. After the smart app connects your Wi-Fi gateway with your router, you can place the sensors wherever you like. Water leak detectors also help prevent damage caused by tree roots and rapid or extreme temperature changes, which can be difficult to discover on your own before its too late. However, when installed onto the main water supply line, they offer whole-house protection from leaks instead of only locally isolated detection. On the other hand, if youre concerned about flooding and need to cover a large surface area of floor space, consider a leak detector with a long and extendable sensor cable. Sign up to receive our free weekly newsletter. Along with, or in place of, local alerting, some water leak detectors are capable of integrating with smart-home technologies like Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, and other third-party services. The Zircon Electronic Water Detector is fully automatic and does not require you to install any wiring. Zircon offers a similar unit without the flashing LEDs at an even lower price point. If a leak detector isnt rated to withstand full water submersion, dont place it in an area prone to flooding. Left unchecked, small leaks under your water heater, washing machine or sink can cause significant problems (including structural and foundational damage) throughout your home or business. We value your privacy. Modern water leak detectors instantly alert you to microleaks, frost and unusual water flow before these issues turn into broken pipes, a flooded basement or worse. The device requires AA batteries (not included) and has an average battery life of up to three years. Well start sending you the news you need delivered straight to you. Here are a few more tips for using a water leak detector. Protect your home from water damage with these 7 leak detectors. This leak detector is versatile and can be used in any room. Unsubscribe easily. Some water leak detectors also have audible alarms that indicate low battery life. Some water leak detectors can monitor temperature and humidity along with leaks. Leak detectors that incorporate automatic shutoff are typically expensiveusually around several hundred dollarsbut could potentially prevent thousands of dollars in water damage, making the extra expense worthwhile. Automatic shut-off valves are installed near your water main and cut off the flow if the detector senses moisture or irregular pressure. Plug-in sensors help cover more ground and monitor more space. Although this unit doesnt feature a built-in siren alarm, a compatible siren alarm is available for separate purchase. It can also integrate with a homes Wi-Fi network and features an app to send alerts directly to a smartphone. The devices sensor wires extend up to 6 feet to protect hard-to-reach areas. Expert advice from Bob Vila, the most trusted name in home improvement, home remodeling, home repair, and DIY. The sensor is discreet and easy to install; simply place it on any surface prone to water leaks or flooding and connect it with your Apple Home device. The alarm runs on a 9-volt alkaline battery (not included). The Fibaro HomeKit Flood Sensor combines leak detection with useful safety features to help you monitor and protect your home. Other features to look for: expandability, extended battery life, freeze sensors, plug-in sensors, easy installation and lights. Do you still have some lingering questions about water leak detectors? You can put them under sinks or near water heaters, sump pumps, dishwashers, water filtration units and plumbing outlets. Understanding the differences among these features is important in helping you determine the best water leak detector for your home. If you have a WiFi-enabled or smart leak detector, your smartphone and other connected devices will identify the location of the leak. Get matched with an Authorized Partner. You can remotely access and control the device from your phone and check the status of leaks and temperature issues with voice commands. If you have an Apple Home smart device (like a HomePod, Apple TV or iPad), its easy to catch small leaks before they turn into big problems. The kit includes a hosting component with a 7-inch high-definition touch screen, connecting wire, sensor, sound pole, earphones, charger and protective case, and the detector requires a lithium-ion battery (included). Companies displayed may pay us to be Authorized or when you click a link, call a number or fill a form on our site. A plumber may need to help if you have a more advanced system with automatic shut-off features. Theres no need to plug it into an outlet simply pop in a new 9-volt battery (like the ones commonly used in smoke detectors) and place the detector face-down on the floor where you want to monitor for moisture. This leak detector also boasts a high waterproof rating, so it wont be damaged or destroyed during extended periods of use in high-moisture areas or even in the event of full water submersion. Zircon offers not only one of the most affordable water leak detectors on the market but also one of the most unique. Low temperatures can cause plumbing fixtures and pipes to freeze. Water leak detectors should be located next to water-supplied appliances and plumbing fixtures like toilets, sinks, refrigerators, hot water heaters, and washing machines. A water leak detector comes with many health, safety and cost benefits. You can put a water leak detector next to toilets, sinks, dishwashers, washing machines, and hot water heaters as well as in garages, basements, or anywhere else prone to flooding. When pipes freeze, they expand and when they expand, they can burst, resulting in a cold, expensive and overwhelming mess. Some advanced systems require a plumber to sync the sensors and shut-off valve with your water main. Under normal circumstances, you can expect the battery to last a few years. Broken seals, clogged lines, loose connections, damaged joints, corrosion and excess water pressure are just a few of the most common causes of water leaks sensors detect. Although uncommon, some water leak detectors include an automatic water shutoff system that turns off the supply as soon as it detects a leak. YoLink Smart Leak Sensors, 1/4 Mile Worlds Longest, Govee WiFi Water Sensor 3 Pack 100dB Adjustable Alarm, 11 Ways to Make the Most of Your Towns Curbside Cleanup Day, Leak Detectors: Your Best Bet to Ward Off Water Woes, Time's Up: 9 Things to Repair in Your Home Before It's Too Late, How Much Does a Plumber Cost? The Watchdog has a 110-decibel alert sound, which is louder than what many of the more costly water leak detectors offer. It also sells models with upgraded features like Wi-Fi integration for email alerts and water sensing cables for expanding the area in which it detects leaks. ConsumerAffairs is not a government agency. Using smart outlets, the sensors can be programmed to cut power to leaky appliances at the first sign of any issues. The average lifespan of a water leak detector will vary between manufacturers, but any given detector is likely to remain functional for several years. This partnership allows you to receive alerts and notifications from your smartphone and other smart hub devices, such as an Amazon Echo. Many of the best water leak detectors include components like smart integrations, automatic shut-off and temperature sensors. The device triggers an alarm when it comes in contact with water. By entering your email, you agree to sign up for consumer news, tips and giveaways from ConsumerAffairs. If a leak is detected, the sensors will trigger an alarm and notifications through text, email or the app. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment based on your own personal circumstances and consult with your own investment, financial, tax and legal advisers. Copyright 2022 Acton Media Inc. All rights reserved. These units are especially valuable for vacation homes and rental properties where the owner frequently isnt on-site and able to personally monitor for leaks. There are several varieties of water leak detectors on the market to serve this very purpose. This Grohe bundle includes a water controller and three sensors. Set a water leak detector directly on the ground (which doesnt require any actual installation), or install it on the wall with double-sided tape, adhesive, or a similar mounting material. Many users on our site have dealt with water leaks in their homes, like one reviewer from California, who ended up having to stay in a hotel for a week while repairs were made (fortunately, they had renters insurance). Home leak detector systems trigger an alarm if they detect moisture. Water-related emergencies and leaks often happen when the power goes off, so its a good idea to invest in a smart water leak detector with extended battery life. In this guide, youll learn how a leak detector can prevent expensive water damage, explore several factors to consider as you shop, and discover some of the best water leak detectors for catching plumbing problems quickly in your home. Most leak detectors with additional sensors also feature smart technology, allowing you to constantly monitor these conditions from your smartphone and other devices. In contrast to local alerting, these smart leak detectors are capable of sending notifications to your phone, even when youre not at home, allowing you to quickly detect leaks regardless of your location. This water leak detector from YoLink can send leak alerts in the form of smartphone banner notifications, SMS text messages, and emails, and can even transmit alerts by integrating with Amazon Alexa and IFTTT-compatible smart devices. This water leak detector from Honeywell marries functionality and simplicity by incorporating several detection and monitoring functions into an easy-to-use device. While the sirens are usually loud enough to hear from most rooms in a home, they might not be sufficiently loud if theyre in a garage (especially a detached one) or an insulated basement. Water leaksWater leaks are also incredibly common, with over 2.5 million homeowners experiencing one every year. A leak detectors battery life can last anywhere from one to 10 years. Many modern detectors combine moisture sensors and leak detection to automatically shut off valves to prevent you from coming home to a big, watery mess. To begin to dispel the confusion, the top picks feature a selection of some of the best water leak detectors on the market in several different categories for quickly catching leaks and floods before disaster strikes. This functionality can act as an effective preventive measure against future problems, as freezing temperatures sometimes lead to frozen and broken pipes, and humidity can contribute to mold and mildew growth. Once a leak is found, they function much like a manual water shutoff valve by closing off the homes water supply. Govee systems are expandable and let you add up to 10 water sensors for more thorough protection (this package comes with a three-pack of sensors). Any good water leak detector helps catch small leaks before they cause significant damage. Instead of relying exclusively on an audible siren, this detector also features a flashing LED light that can complement the loud local alerting and will stay on for up to 72 hours or until the siren is manually silenced. If you live in an area where frozen pipes are common, consider investing in a system that detects and alerts you to freezing temperatures. Some smart leak detectors use your homes Wi-Fi network connection to transmit a signal, while others use a dedicated service for a monthly fee. Since all leaks create soundwaves, a detector can gauge the severity of a leak by the frequency it produces. Honeywell CHW3610W1001 Wi-Fi Water Leak Detector, Zircon Leak Alert + LED! Battery-powered leak detectors can be placed in practically any location independent of an additional power source, making them ideal for locations that dont have nearby electrical outlets. The detector is also equipped with temperature and humidity sensors, both of which can also be monitored via the app or connected smart devices. YoLink also offers other compatible accessories like an automatic shutoff valve for sinks. By James Fitzgerald | Updated May 12, 2021 11:13 AM. If a battery-operated leak detector doesnt include a battery life indicator, replace the batteries every one to two years to ensure theyre fully charged. Water leak detectors can be powered either by batteries or a homes AC wall outlet, but battery-powered detectors are the most common. To avoid a similar fate, its wise to identify water leaks as soon as possible before they turn into a financially devastating problem. The alarm has two groups of probes in the back and one group of probes in the front, which helps it detect drips and leaks quickly. The detector includes a 4-foot-long sensor cable for identifying leaks in both tight and wide-open spaces and is expandable up to another 500 feet with additional cables. Knowing theres a leak is one thing, but being able to stop it from damaging your home and belongings is where the real power lies. Our content is intended to be used for general information purposes only. The most significant benefit of investing in a water leak detector is knowing youre protected from potential water damage, like mold, sagging structures and other foundational issues. This electronic water leak detector comes in a three-pack for use in multiple rooms. The sensor is also compatible with Z-Wave technology. The system includes a smart app for notifications and remote monitoring. We value your privacy. They can also be placed in basements, attics, crawl spaces, and any other areas prone to leaks from rain and melted snow or ice. Grohe sensors require a Wi-Fi network, and the detector connects to the cloud to record temperature and humidity data. Basic water sensors alert you only if the primary sensor detects water, but systems with multiple plug-in sensors let you widen your coverage area. Our favorite detector with automatic shut-off: Our favorite water leak detector for emergencies. The light also makes it easier to find the unit in dark areas under sinks and in water heater closets. To pick our favorite water leak detectors available at the time of publishing, we considered essential water detection technology, alert types, price and customer reviews. Youll hear a sound in the earphones when the device is near a leak source the frequency increases (up to 2,500 hertz) as you get closer to the issue. It can detect as little as 1/32nd of an inch of water, and the alarm sounds for up to three days if it detects a leak. Water Leak Detector, YoLink Smart Leak Sensors, 1/4 Mile World's Longest. Please note: This device doesnt feature automatic shut-off or support 5 GHz Wi-Fi. Although convenient, the disadvantage of battery-powered detectors is that the batteries can die and leave the area in which the detector is located vulnerable to undetected leaks. Disclosure: BobVila.com participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for publishers to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. A system with options to expand the coverage area, add more sensors and include cable extenders helps you protect more ground. Just like with a smoke alarm, routinely test a leak detector once every one to two months to verify its still working. Along with a loud alarm for local alerting, this leak detector can be used with Amazon Alexa and Google Home Assistant to receive alerts and notifications. You can also purchase additional sensors. This Resideo detector connects directly to your standard home Wi-Fi and doesnt require a hub. The water controller must be installed on a potable cold water line with a pipe thats no larger than an inch in diameter. This water leak detector from Govee detects leaks and sends a notification in two ways: directly to a smartphone via a homes Wi-Fi network and through a local alerting siren alarm. However, this lifespan could be reduced by total water submersion if the detector has a relatively low waterproof rating. If your water leak detector features a local alerting sensor and siren, the leak will be coming from the spot in which your detector is located and the siren was triggered. Even after learning the various features that different water leak detectors can offer, it can be hard to choose the right one for you from the plethora of available options. Our favorite wireless water leak detector, Our favorite water leak detector with automatic shut-off, Our favorite water leak detector for home emergencies, Our favorite underground water leak detector. It employs the same professional-grade technology water supply, heating and construction companies use to detect leaks. Most smart leak detectors plug directly into an outlet and come with a backup battery that keeps the device powered when utilities are down. These inline units are installed directly onto a water supply plumbing line and continually monitor a homes water usage to detect leaks. The 2M Ultrasonic underground water leak detector is a lightweight, hand-held device that detects leaks in steel, PVC, PE and PEX pipes. If you cant hear the alarm from that location, consider upgrading to a detector with a louder siren or one that can send alerts directly to a smartphone. Unsubscribe at any time. You can select spectrum analysis or filtering analysis modes, record live and manage data through the touch screen. The best water leak detectors trigger a high-decibel alarm, send notifications to your smart devices and automatically shut off water to prevent damage. To install, simply plug the gateway into an electrical socket and remove the sensors' insulating battery tabs. The device chirps to notify you when the battery is low. The sensors are placed in areas where leaks are common, such as near faucets and beneath water heaters. Most water leak detectors are easy to install, typically taking less than an hour to put in place. Even budget leak detectors should be easy to install and have a loud alarm. Water leak detectors offer a variety of features that influence their functionality. Its battery powered, so its useful practically anywhere while offering a three-year battery life. The Fibaro HomeKit sensor immediately alerts your device if it detects a leak or freeze. Once connected to a homes Wi-Fi gateway, the detector sends alerts via SMS and email at all times. BobVila.com and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Boasting the longest wireless range in the smart-home industry, the base can connect to individual detectors from up to 1,000 feet in the open air outdoors and up to 328 feet indoors. All prices and information are accurate at the time of publication. Most water leak detectors have built-in alarms that emit a loud beep or ring when a leak is detected. Some leak detectors also monitor for changes in acoustics. Fortunately, many battery-operated detectors have indicators that signal when battery life is low. If your detector relies on a built-in siren for alerts, ensure that you can hear it throughout the house, regardless of where the detector is located. Take a Home Warranty Quiz. Rather than installing moisture or flow sensors, youll place the probe on the ground above where you want to check for leaks. As opposed to other smart-home leak detectors, this model isnt dependent on a homes Wi-Fi network but instead uses special radio frequencies to transmit its signals without taking up the networks bandwidth. The Average Rate for Hiring a Plumber, 20 Bad Habits That Could Burn Down Your House, 16 Home Improvements That Are Best Not to DIY. This Fibaro detector includes the water leak sensor and one CR123A battery. Also called local alerting, these built-in alarms often have the same or greater decibel rating (85+ dB) as smoke and fire alarms (75+ dB) and will stay active for a period of several hours to a few days until they are manually silenced. To gain the most benefit from a water leak detector, first identify the sources of potential leaks. There arent many extra perks with the Glentronics Watchdog, but its useful for detecting problems before mold grows or costly water damage occurs. Copyright 2022 Consumers Unified LLC. The smart water controller plugs into a standard electrical socket and requires a wireless LAN to connect to the app. It also detects frost and unusual water pressure. Grohe monitors water pressure in pipes to detect minor leaks before a major pipe bursts. Looking for a leak detection solution thats capable of integrating with smart devices? The device can detect leaks in pressure pipes made of any material within two meters of soft soil. As a safety backup, a built-in, 100-decibel siren alarm will function even if the Wi-Fi connection is temporarily unavailable. Some batteries last up to 10 years. Some of the best water detectors offer the following additional benefits: Some leak detector systems can support up to 30 sensors, while others are equipped to monitor five or fewer. Look for LED lights that blink or flash when the device detects a leak, has a low battery or loses connection. Water sensors detect and prevent excess moisture and flooding caused by broken pipes and faulty appliances. Not only can this damage wreck your home it can also wreck your wallet if left unchecked. During severe flooding, thisZircon can float and sound its alarm for up to 72 hours or until the battery is depleted. The compact and battery-powered detector features a specially designed housing that allows it to float when exposed to flooding so it wont be fully submerged and destroyed if its subjected to a flood in a garage or basement. If the package kit is too pricey, you can purchase the sensors separately this could be an ideal solution if you only need to monitor a small room. While any size of water leak detector is useful for larger open spaces, like basements and garages, a smaller detector might be necessary to fit in more cramped and vulnerable places, like behind fridges and toilets. However, most leak detectors can last for several years on a single set of batteries. This Govee water sensor has sensitive water probes and a wireless water alarm. With the Grohe Sense Guard Smart, you can select from automatic, manual or remote shut-off functions to prevent and limit damage. Although commonly tied into a homes main water line, these detectors can also be placed on a single water line, such as the hot water heater supply. If youre primarily concerned about plumbing fixtures, a small and compact leak detector might be required to access tight and confined spaces under sinks and next to toilets, washing machines, and dishwashers. Glentronics Basement Watchdog is easy to install and affordable and can effectively detect water and moisture in places it shouldnt be. Its sensors monitor temperature, humidity and moisture, and its cold detection can sense temperatures from 30 below zero to 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Early leak detection helps prevent standing water, which can lead to mold growth and pest infestations. This makes it possible to hear the built-in alarms throughout the house, so you dont have to worry about a leak going unnoticed. Its a good idea to look for a detector with a 70- to 100-decibel alarm, but you may want one thats even louder if you have trouble hearing (for context, the average smoke alarm is about 90 decibels).