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

April 21, 2025
Cell phone app alerts homeowner of a water problem

One minor leak in your home can lead to major problems and thousands in damage. You have to safeguard against this risk; fortunately, there’s an easy way to do so. A water sensor is a simple, effective, and affordable solution. Explore how they work and why you might connect water sensors to your Evansville smart home.

How water sensors protect Evansville properties

Water penetrates homes in numerous ways, whether from an appliance breakdown, plumbing failure, storm-related event, or human error. Whatever way it takes place, you need to know right away, and this is how water sensors help. But how do they really work? 

The majority of water sensors are conductive and operate with two electrodes. When water reaches the electrodes, an electrical connection is created, triggering your alarm. You’ll also discover capacitive sensors that emit an electrical field. When water touches the conductive surfaces of these devices, the field is broken, and your alarm activates. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are an additional choice.

Some water sensors give you more

Certain innovative water sensors provide even more peace of mind as they have built-in temperature sensors. This is an excellent benefit in preventing frozen pipes. If there’s a severe reduction in temperature, you’ll know right away. Taking action before pipes burst will protect you from flooding and exorbitant repair costs.

Why integrate water sensors into your Evansville smart home? 

When water emergencies arise, you have to be notified at once. You can achieve this objective by integrating water sensors into your smart home. Whether you’re on site to hear the alarm or not, you’ll get an immediate notification on your cell phone. In addition, your round-the-clock monitoring team will be informed. Each second counts in a water emergency to control the destruction and interruption to your life.

Where should you put water sensors?

Any area prone to water infiltration is a suitable place for water sensors. Put them in these spots:

  • Bathrooms: Place at the back of toilets or next to tubs.
  • Basements: Water commonly seeps into lower levels via damaged walls or as a result of excess rain or faulty sump pumps.
  • Next to water heaters or appliances: Any water-utilizing appliance may leak over time.
  • Below sinks: Water sensors are ideal for detecting plumbing leaks in place you can’t see.
  • Attics: Identify roof leaks promptly and prevent expensive repairs.

Get water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your property the robust protection it needs with innovative components from Vivint. Our water sensors in Evansville integrate with your Vivint smartphone app to deliver immediate notifications whenever your alarm goes off. You also benefit from incorporated temperature sensors to prevent pipe freezing. Learn more about the smart home tools available in Evansville by reaching out to (812) 310-5880 today.