Whether a continuous drip or a sudden flood, water leaks can come from a myriad of locations within a home, such as near sinks, toilets, tubs, washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators, water heaters, and sump pumps. Storms, foundation cracks, and roofing/gutter failures can also cause unanticipated leaks and flooding. Basements are particularly vulnerable.
Depending on the extent and flow of the leak, the costs of home water damage from common sources can be devastating in terms of building material replacement, remediation, and disruption. When toxic mold results from extended wet conditions, the time and cost required for remediation can quickly multiply.
The good news is that it can be relatively simple and inexpensive to protect a home. Cost-effective water detectors can be placed near or under appliances, plumbing, and at other key locations where leaks or flooding are most likely to occur. These detectors produce a loud, audible alarm, alerting occupants to address the situation immediately.
Even better, sophisticated sensors today can now be connected directly to Wi-Fi networks to deliver email alerts. This is a key advantage of smart water detectors over more basic units – a distinction that is crucial when no one is home to address the alarm. Promptly alerted by email, designated contacts can quickly turn off appliances or the water supply, and tape or fill cracks and crevices. In doing so, homeowners may be able to stop, or at least minimize, damage at its earliest stages.
As an example, a leading detector manufacturer, Zircon Corporation, has designed and developed a family of water detectors that are simple, reliable, and effective for homeowners.
Zircon’s Leak Alert™ X and Leak Alert™ WiFi smart water detectors provide audible, visual, and email alerts when water is detected, warning homeowners of a potential leak. Powered by a 3V lithium battery, these Wi-Fi-enabled water detectors eliminate the need for a separate hub.
Since each water detector operates independently and is individually named during the setup process, a comprehensive solution can be created by placing a multitude of detectors throughout the home, or multiple properties. Configuration is simple and can be accomplished in a matter of minutes, connecting each detector to the home’s Wi-Fi, and then entering the detector location and contact information.
The Leak Alert™ X water detector has an attached 9.8 ft. (3 m) sensor cable to enable discreet leak detection in areas not typically accessible with a standard sensor. The detector can be placed on any non-conductive surface, mounted on a wall, or affixed to a magnetic surface. When moisture is detected, a loud SOS alarm sounds, red LEDs flash, and an email alert notification is sent via Wi-Fi to up to five configured email addresses.
A popular choice in homes, these smart water detectors are also often used in commercial or public properties such as apartments, office buildings, hospitals, colleges, and schools. The detectors are also ideal for short-term rentals.
When only a local alarm is necessary, a more basic unit like the Leak Alert™ water detector can be utilized.
For more information, call (408) 963-4550, e-mail: info@zircon.com, or visit www.zircon.com.