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How does a water sensor work and why install one with your Columbia smart home?

April 21, 2025
Smartphone app notifies resident of water infiltration

One small leak at your property can cause big difficulties and thousands of dollars in damage. You have to safeguard against this threat; luckily, there’s a straightforward way to achieve this. A water sensor is a simple, effective, and budget-friendly solution. Explore how they work and why you ought to connect water sensors to your Columbia smart home.

How water sensors safeguard Columbia properties

Water infiltrates homes in many ways, whether from an appliance malfunction, plumbing failure, storm-related event, or simple human error. No matter how it occurs, you have to know right away, and this is how water sensors help. But how exactly do they work? 

The majority of water sensors are conductive and operate with a pair of electrodes. When water enters the area between the electrodes, an electrical connection is established, activating your alarm. You’ll also find capacitive sensors that release an electrical field. Your alarm activates when water contacts the conductive parts of these components and interrupts the field. Optical sensors employing infrared LED light are another choice.

Some water sensors give you more

Some specialized water sensors offer even more defense as they have integrated temperature sensors. This is an outstanding tool in preventing frozen pipes. If there’s a severe drop in temperature, you’ll be notified immediately. Taking measures before pipes burst will protect you from water infiltration and expensive repairs.

Why connect water sensors to your Columbia smart home? 

When water emergencies arise, you have to be alerted right away. You can achieve this objective by incorporating water sensors into your smart home. Whether you’re home to hear the alarm or away, you’ll receive an automatic notification on your mobile device. As an additional backup, your 24-hour monitoring specialists will be informed. Every second matters in a water emergency to minimize the damage and disturbance to your household.

Where should you place water sensors?

Any spot prone to flooding is an ideal position for water sensors. Place them in these spots:

  • Bathrooms: Attach next to bathtubs or behind toilets.
  • Basements: Water often infiltrates lower levels via cracked walls or due to excess rain or faulty sump pumps.
  • Next to water heaters or appliances: Any water-utilizing appliance might over time leak.
  • Underneath sinks: Water sensors are great for discovering plumbing leaks in place not easy to see.
  • Attics: Catch roof leaks quickly and prevent costly repairs.

Request water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your property the complete protection it needs with modern components from Vivint. Our water sensors in Columbia link to your Vivint smartphone app to provide instant updates any time your alarm goes off. You also enjoy integrated temperature sensors to avert pipe freezing. Discover all the smart home components available in Columbia by reaching out to (803) 921-0946 today.