How does a water sensor work and why connect one to your Grand Rapids smart home?

One minor leak in your home can cause major problems and thousands in damage. You need to protect against this risk; thankfully, there’s a straightforward way to accomplish this. A water sensor is an effective, simple, and economical solution. See how they work and why you might connect water sensors to your Grand Rapids smart home.

How water sensors safeguard Grand Rapids homes

Water infiltrates homes in many ways, whether from an appliance malfunction, plumbing issue, storm-related event, or human error. Whatever way it occurs, you must know at once, and this is how water sensors help. But how precisely do they work? 

Most water sensors are conductive and operate with two electrodes. When water comes in contact with the electrodes, an electrical circuit is established, setting off your alarm. You’ll also come across capacitive sensors that emit an electrical field. Your alarm triggers when water touches the conductive surfaces of these components and disrupts the field. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are another option.

Get more protection from water sensors

Certain innovative water sensors offer even more protection as they feature built-in temperature sensors. This is an effective way to prevent frozen pipes. If there’s a severe decrease in temperature, you’ll be notified right away. Taking action before pipes break will protect you from water damage and exorbitant repair costs.

Why integrate water sensors into your Grand Rapids smart home? 

When water emergencies occur, you must be notified right away. You can reach this aim by incorporating water sensors into your smart home. Whether you’re home to hear the alarm or somewhere else, you’ll receive an automatic notification on your mobile device. In addition, your 24/7 monitoring team will be notified. Every second counts in a water emergency to control the damage and interruption to your household.

Where should you put water sensors?

Any location susceptible to flooding is an appropriate position for water sensors. Consider installing in these spots:

• Bathrooms: Position in back of toilets or next to bathtubs.
• Basements: Water frequently seeps into lower floors via cracked walls or as a result of excess rain or faulty sump pumps.
• Near water heaters or appliances: Any water-connected appliance may leak at some point.
• Under sinks: Water sensors are great for discovering plumbing leaks in place not easy to see.
• Attics: Detect roof leaks quickly and prevent costly repairs.

Request water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your residence the robust protection it needs with Vivint’s modern components. Our water sensors in Grand Rapids integrate with your Vivint mobile app to deliver instant notifications whenever your alarm goes off. You also get built-in temperature sensors to avert frozen pipes. Explore the smart home tools available in Grand Rapids by dialing (616) 747-8419 today.