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How does a water sensor work and why use one with your Ithaca smart home?

April 21, 2025
Mobile app warns homeowner of a water concern

One tiny leak in your home can cause major difficulties and thousands in damage. You must safeguard against this danger; fortunately, there’s a simple way to accomplish this. A water sensor is a budget-friendly, simple, and effective solution. Learn how they work and why you ought to incorporate water sensors into your Ithaca smart home.

How water sensors safeguard Ithaca your home

Water infiltrates homes in numerous ways, whether from a weather-related incident, plumbing problem, appliance breakdown, or human error. No matter how it takes place, you must know right away, and this is why water sensors are important. But how do they really work? 

Most water sensors are conductive and function with corresponding electrodes. When water infiltrates the area between the electrodes, an electrical link is created, setting off your alarm. You’ll also discover capacitive sensors that release an electrical field. When water reaches the conductive parts of these devices, the field is interrupted, and your alarm activates. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are another possibility.

Some water sensors give you more

Some innovative water sensors offer even more protection as they use integrated temperature sensors. This is a helpful way to prevent pipe freezing. If there’s a drastic drop in temperature, you’ll find out at once. Taking measures before pipes burst will shield you from water infiltration and exorbitant repair costs.

Why integrate water sensors into your Ithaca smart home? 

When water emergencies happen, you have to be alerted immediately. You can attain this aim by connecting water sensors to your smart home. Whether you’re home to hear the alarm or away, you’ll be sent an automatic notification on your smartphone. In addition, your 24-hour monitoring agents will be notified. Each moment counts in a water emergency to minimize the destruction and disruption to your life.

Where should you place water sensors?

Any area susceptible to an influx of water is a suitable position for water sensors. Think about installing in these spots:

  • Bathrooms: Attach behind toilets or close to tubs.
  • Basements: Water often enters lower levels via cracked walls or because of heavy rain or malfunctioning sump pumps.
  • Near water heaters or appliances: Any water-using appliance may leak over time.
  • Underneath sinks: Water sensors are ideal for detecting pipe leaks in locations hidden from view.
  • Attics: Catch roof leaks early and prevent expensive repairs.

Install water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your property the complete protection it deserves with innovative tools from Vivint. Our water sensors in Ithaca connect to your Vivint mobile app to provide immediate alerts any time your alarm is triggered. You also enjoy built-in temperature sensors to prevent pipe freezing. Learn more about the smart home components available in Ithaca by calling (607) 600-9658 today.