What are Smart Water Leak Detectors? 

Almost every house has at least a few smoke detectors located throughout the home. While a fire can certainly devastate a home, water damage can be equally destructive if not detected quickly. Smart water leak detectors are the equivalent of smoke detectors and alert homeowners to potential water leaks located throughout the house. Most of these devices connect to a Wi-Fi system and send an alert to your phone as soon as it detects water. Alternatively, some smart water leak detectors can connect to a smart home system and display a light or sound an alarm when water leaks are detected.

Can Smart Water Leak Detectors Save You Money?

The average water damage repair costs $2,566. That’s a lot of cash, especially when sophisticated water leakage detectors are widely available for much less money. The priciest detectors barely cost a third of the average repair bill. That’s why they could pay for themselves someday. Or offer the comfort of knowing that you will be alerted when water leaks arise.

Why Buy a Smart Water Leak Detector?  

Just like fire, water can spread quickly and at inconvenient times of the day. A water main break during the day can grow into a flood in your basement by night. Frozen pipes cause days of havoc if not detected.

Studies show water leaks are five times more likely than theft and six times more likely than fire. More than 40 percent of homeowners will suffer water damage. Some drips can add up to 100,000 gallons of wasted water annually.

When affordable technology exists that automatically turns off the water and notifies you of leaks, why not invest in it?

Where Should Smart Water Leak Detectors Be Placed?

Water leak detectors should be strategically placed around the home in areas where water damage is most likely to occur. These areas include: 

• kitchens
• bathrooms
• basements
• water heaters
• refrigerators
• freezers
• washing machines
• water coolers
• toilets
• sinks
• and other areas where water pipes and other plumbing fixtures are located.

While most smart water leak detectors are similar in design, there are some important differences that you should take into consideration when making your choice.

Does a Smart Water Leak Detector Need To Have an Alarm?

Almost all smart water leak detectors are designed to send alerts to the connected smartphone when water is detected. Others, however, also have a built-in alarm that will sound as well. If you tend to ignore the hundreds of notifications that get sent to your smartphone daily, a physical, audible alarm might be a desirable feature.

Should You Buy A Smart Water Leak Detector That Works With Wi-Fi or a Hub?

Another important consideration is related to the type of connection needed to operate the smart water leak protector. Some devices only require a Wi-Fi connection, while others require a branded smart home hub to work correctly with the apps on your mobile phone. If you don’t already have a smart hub for your home or don't want one, finding a smart water leak detector that only requires Wi-Fi should be a priority.

Do Smart Water Leak Detectors Have Additional Sensors?

The main task of a smart water leak detector is to alert you to the presence of leaking water in your home. Some of these devices offer additional sensors that can further help you to avoid water-related damage. For example, some of the best products will also alert you to freezing temperatures that could lead to a burst pipe. Humidity sensors can help you make the necessary changes in your home environment to avoid the growth of mold and mildew that compromise your indoor air quality.