Best Water Leak Detectors of 2021 (Pricing & Features)
Not sure which water sensor to choose? This side-by-side chart will highlight the 2021 prices and features to make it easier to decide. Consumers can compare the ins and outs of each product to determine which one most suits their interests and needs.
| Provider | Total Score | Monthly Plan | Price | Alarm Sounds | Mobile Access | Power Source | Refund Policy | Smart Integrations | Temperature Monitoring | Warranty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Vivint | 9.8/10 | $29.99 | $100 | No | Yes | Battery | 30 days | Yes | Yes | 120 days | Overall protection |
| 2. ADT | 9.6/10 | $27.99 | $23 | No | Yes | Battery | 6 months | Yes | No | 1 year | Battery power |
| 3. Frontpoint | 9.4/10 | $44.99 | $24.99 | Yes | Yes | Battery | 30 days | Yes | No | N/A | DIY system |
| 4. LeakSMART | 9.4/10 | N/A | $287 | Yes | Yes | Battery | 30 days | Yes | No | 5 year | Smart tech |
| 5. SimpliSafe | 9.4/10 | $15 | $19.99 | No | Yes | Battery | 60 days | Yes | No | 3 years | Budgets |
| 6. Fibaro | 9.3/10 | N/A | $50 | Yes | Yes | Battery | 30 days | Yes | Yes | 2 years | Automation |
| 7. Honeywell | 9.2/10 | N/A | $80 | Yes | Yes | Battery | 30 days | Yes | Yes | 2 years | Stand alone service |
| 8. Phyn | 8.8/10 | N/A | $699 | No | Yes | Battery | 30 days | Yes | Yes | 2 years | Whole-home |
| 9. Fibaro | 8.8/10 | $5 | $499 | No | Yes | Battery | 30 days | No | Yes | 1 year | Utility savings |
| 10. Samsung | 8.6/10 | $27.99 | $19.99 | No | Yes | Battery | 30 days | Yes | No | 1 year | Remote access |
Features to Consider When Purchasing a Water Leak Detector
When looking for a water sensor, consumers must know which features will make their lives easier. Here is a review of the top characteristics to consider when browsing through a selection of detectors.
Automatic Shut-Off Systems
A smart water sensor is super convenient but may cost more. The trade-off is that it can turn off the main supply line at the earliest sign of leakage, potentially saving money and preventing damage.
Built-in Siren
Every water detector sends out a notification, but not all sound a siren. Some clients prefer an audible alert, so they should check which products have a built-in siren. Otherwise, they’ll have to depend on a text or email update.
Connection Protocols
Depending on the specific water leak detector, it may require a connection to a larger base station or control panel. If this is the case, be sure to check the system recommendations so that everything syncs up smoothly. Usually, this involves a stable WiFi network.
Easy Installation
This goes without saying, but if the water detector is hard to set up, then that doesn’t bode well for its usage. People need something that’s either plug-and-go or wirelessly connected. Try reading customer reviews to get a better idea of which products offer high performance and reliability.
Extended Battery Life
Look for a water detector with a long-lasting power source. Most of the options in this list rely on a wireless signal but also take batteries. Depending on the manufacturer, these batteries could last anywhere from a year to a decade.
Freeze Monitoring
Just because it’s a water leak detector, that doesn’t mean it can protect against frozen pipes. Be sure to check which products can detect freezing temperatures, or else it may be hard to spot a wintry mess until it’s too late.
Lights
Not all gadgets have light indicators, but it’s a handy feature to have. This way, a simple glance at the product can reveal if it’s functioning or if the batteries are running low.
Plug-In Sensors
While most of these devices run on batteries, others plug into a wall outlet. In that case, it’s important to check for a backup power source. If the electricity goes out, the house should still be protected.
Power Source
The accessories on this list run off of batteries, but it’s not uncommon to find a hardwired water sensor. If that’s the case, be sure that it’s a feasible option for the property.
Size/Expandability
Most people don’t think about this, but one water sensor often isn’t enough. Either they must look for multiple detectors, or they need one that has an expandable cable.
Smart Home Integrations
This isn’t mandatory, but these days it is important to many families. Since lots of households already have smart gadgets in place, it makes sense to choose a water sensor that’s compatible with the system.
Temperature Monitoring
Odd as it may seem, not every water detector monitors temperature changes. Keep this in mind while shopping. A gadget that tracks changes in heat or cold can help determine whether pipes are frozen. That translates into superb disaster prevention.
Water Detection & Alerts
Not all notifications are created equal. Some of them send an update as soon as excess moisture is present, or if the temperature suddenly plummets. Others wait until there is already a puddle.
Pros & Cons of Water and Flood Sensors
As with any household device, there are advantages and drawbacks to these sensors. Those who are on the fence about purchasing one should check out the potential benefits. Likewise, it’s important to understand the risks and pitfalls as well.
Pros
These nifty little accessories are small but mighty. Besides their looks, they offer quite a few benefits.
- Automatic Updates: many home humidity alerts send instant updates to the customer’s phone, computer, or tablet. These texts and push notifications ensure that no detection goes unnoticed. Many of these systems also offer remote access, so it’s easy to shut off the power or disconnect the device with the push of a smartphone button.
- Avoid Wintry Disasters: the colder months often lead to frozen pipes that could burst at any moment. A freeze alarm can help people tackle that problem before it becomes a full-fledged repair cost.
- Long-Term Protection & Savings: at the end of the day, these accessories lead to greater monetary savings. They prevent small issues and leakages from becoming full-fledged problems, which can translate to thousands of dollars saved.
- Save Money on Repairs: even if a repair is necessary, it’s bound to be much cheaper than it would be without a water detector to sound the alarm earlier.
Cons
While there are lots of advantages to using these types of devices, they aren’t without their pitfalls.
- The Disparity in Quality: the downside to these products is that there is a wide range in how compatible and reliable they are. In some ways, customers will get what they pay for. A cheaper model may have connectivity issues or misread moisture and temperatures. Others may be made of shoddy materials that can’t stand up to humidity, tampering, or other environmental hazards.
- Upfront Costs: keep in mind that upfront charges are often involved. Those who are on a strict budget may have to hold off on this kind of protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How Do Water Leak Detectors Work?
They contain sensing information and modules that pick up on excess moisture or flooding. Some can even detect rising or falling temperatures and notify users promptly. Regardless of the brand, they typically work in a similar way.
- The sensors hook up to the property’s shut-off valve.
- They connect to the household’s WiFi to allow for remote access and control.
- When moisture or plummeting temperatures are detected, the system sounds to let clients know. Some of them can turn off the main supply line automatically.
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Where Can I Install a Water Leak Detector?
Using these products is simple, and setting them up is often quite easy.
Here are some places to put them:
- Above a sink
- Behind a toilet
- Next to a washing machine
- Behind the dishwasher
- Near pipes and supply lines
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How Many Water Sensors Do I Need?
It depends on how big the house is and how many appliances or rooms the person wants to protect. For example, someone may want to keep a device in the bathroom, but they might also want one in the kitchen. In this case, they need two separate gadgets.
Another option is getting a smart sensing system, which connects throughout the property.
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How Can I Check If I Have a Water Leak?
There are a few things people can do.
- First, take a look at the main supply line and check for clogs, corrosion, and broken seals.
- If winter and colder temperatures are approaching, then be sure to keep a closer eye on things.
- Another thing is to consistently check utility bills for any strange charges or uptick in costs.
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Can You Rent a Water Leak Detector?
Yes, it is possible to rent this type of equipment, although it’s much more common to purchase it. That said, if someone is renting a property or doesn’t want to commit to a purchase, then they can borrow a device.
Individuals can check their local home improvement store to see what’s available.
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Why Is There Water Coming Through My Walls?
There could be a few different things going on.
- First, there might just be a crack in the wall. Alternatively, there could be moisture and liquid trapped in the ground soil. This could cause a build-up of pressure that eventually wears down the wall.
- Another possibility is that the windows aren’t properly sealed. There could also be extra condensation, particularly for those who live in humid environments. This liquid can run down the windows and onto the walls.
Reliable Remediation When It Matters Most
Even the most well-built properties can experience flooding or excess moisture. The important thing is to point out those areas that are most prone and do something about it. A detection unit is the most cost-effective and simplest way to combat the issue.
Plus, taking those preventative measures now often translates to monetary savings, and peace of mind, in the end.
