If you have pipes, drains, and water-using appliances in your home, you’re bound to encounter the occasional water leak. In fact, water leaks are so common that over 2.5 million homeowners experience at least one each year.

Some, like a leaky faucet, are relatively minor. Others, like a burst pipe or leaking water heater, can result in costly damage. And because we know an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, we know how important it is to identify a water leaks before it has a chance to be destructive. One or more water leak detectors can help you do just that.

What Is a Water Leak Detector?

A leak detector is a device that sounds an alarm or provides a visual indication that there is a presence of water where there shouldn’t be, like beneath a kitchen sink, behind your fridge, or around the water heater. It’s purpose is to alert you of a leak so you can act or, in some cases, stop the flow of water to prevent damage.

What to Consider When Choosing a Water Leak Detector 

There are several varieties of water leaks detectors on the market today, all with features that influence their functionality. It’s important to understand these features when determining which model is best for your home.

Location 

Water leak detectors should be placed next to plumbing fixtures, washing machines, water heaters, and water-using appliances. They can also be placed in basements, attics, and other areas prone to leaks from rain and melting snow or ice.

Size

Any size leak detector can be used in a large, open space like a garage. However, a tight, cramped area like behind the fridge may require a smaller unit. Most plug-in detectors have long sensor cables that allow them to detect leaks a good distance from where the base of the detector is positioned.

Power Source

While battery-powered leak detectors are the most common, some can also be powered by an electrical outlet. There are pros and cons to both. For example, battery-powered detectors can be placed just about anywhere, without needing an additional power source. However, batteries can die and leave the area vulnerable to undetected leaks. Fortunately, most battery-powered models are equipped with indicators that signal low battery life. Electricity-powered leak detectors require a nearby electrical outlet, limiting their placement.

Built-in Alarm

Most detectors have built-in alarms that emit a loud beeping or ringing sound alerting you to a leak. These alarms can be as loud as a smoke or fire alarm and will remain on for a period of time until manually silenced. This feature significantly reduces the chances of a leak going undetected.

Smart Home Integration

Some models are also able to integrate with smart-home technologies and send alerts to your smartphone or other smart home devices. Unlike just local alerting, smart leak detectors can notify you of the presence of a leak even when you’re not home so you can take swift action.

Additional Sensors

Some leak detectors can also monitor temperature and humidity inside your home, preventing problems associated with freezing temperature and mold or mildew growth. Most also offer smart technology so you can constantly monitor the conditions inside your home even when you’re away.

Automatic Water Shutoff

Some water leak detectors feature an automatic water shutoff that turns off the water supply as soon as a leak is detected. They can be installed directly onto the main water supply line to continually monitor a home’s water usage or on a single water line such as a water heater.

The faster you spot a water leak, the faster you can take action and prevent serious damage. For water leak detection, leaky pipe repair, and any other plumbing need, contact PC Plumbing, Heating, AC & Remodeling. Our team of indoor comfort specialists is ready to serve you.