How do smart water leak detectors work?

As smart home technology continues to develop, so do the business opportunities for residential service plumbers and HVAC professionals. Because many smart home products are designed to prevent property damage, it makes sense that water leak detectors were the next evolution in the technology.

Discover how smart water leak detectors work and see how to incorporate leak detection technology services into your plumbing or HVAC business.

How water leak detection works

Smart leak detector systems vary from brand to brand, but it’s common for a system to include three main components that are controlled by an app for smartphones or tablets: smart water leak sensors, shutoff valves and a centralized hub.

Sensors are placed where leaks are possible at specific points in a home, such as faucets, appliances and water heaters. This allows you to customize a leak detection solution based on your customers’ needs or concerns. Certain sensors not only detect water and potential leaks but can alert for water pressure, humidity and freezing as well.

Smart shutoff valves are installed at strategic locations as well. These usually need to be installed by a licensed plumber, since cutting into a water line may be required for certain types of shutoff valves.

A centralized hub seamlessly integrates with the shutoff valves and relays information to the system’s app.

Once the smart water leak detection system is set up, your customer can get alerts on their app if anything goes wrong and control the system from wherever they are. This could potentially help them save thousands of dollars on repairing water damage while giving them peace of mind.

There are a few things that are good to know if you’re adding this service to your business offerings.

Three things to know about smart water leak detectors

Knowing more about the options available can help you in discussions with your customers about water leak detection. Check out three facts to help you stay on top of this technology.

The technology goes beyond water leaks.

Select sensors monitor water temperature as well, which can help your customers be aware of and avoid the risks of frozen pipes.

In addition, certain brands offer shutoff valves for use in both HVAC and plumbing applications, so you can offer a versatile range of smart leak detection solutions for your customers.

Finally, look for a water leak detector system that has backup power and is capable of transmitting information through radio frequency. This way your customers have an added level of security in case the power or Wi-Fi goes out.

Installing smart water leak detection is straightforward.

Smart leak detector system installation often involves little time and effort. As mentioned above, if cutting into a water line is required, certain shutoff valves must be installed by a licensed plumber. For plumbing professionals, however, this is no different than installing a standard brass valve. Again, the specific shutoff valves vary from brand, but they are available in standard domestic sizes for easy installation.

Once the shutoff valves and other components are in place, the smart leak detector system setup is often done through the respective app on your customer’s smartphone or tablet. This allows your customers to choose their settings and preferences based on their needs.

Water leak detectors can integrate with other smart tech.

Depending on the brand, your customers can integrate their smart leak detector system with other smart home products. This will allow you to help your customers upgrade their smart home and further enhance their security. Smart home product integrations include:

• Thermostats: Certain smart thermostats offer leak detection integration. When combined with a smart leak detector, this makes it possible for customers to monitor and control their HVAC unit wherever they go.
• Smart speakers: Voice assistant features are available for certain smart leak detectors. Through a simple voice command, your customers can turn off the water in their house at their convenience.

Ferguson can help with smart water leak systems

Ferguson offers smart leak detector products from leading brands. In addition to our vast inventory, we provide expert support from knowledgeable associates. Contact us to discuss what you need to finish your next project.