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How does a water sensor work and why connect one to your South Bend smart home?

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

One tiny leak in your home can cause major issues and thousands in damage. You need to safeguard against this threat; luckily, there’s an easy way to accomplish this. A water sensor is an effective, simple, and economical solution. Explore how they work and why you might connect water sensors to your South Bend smart home.

How water sensors safeguard South Bend properties

Water penetrates homes in many ways, whether from a plumbing issue, weather-related event, appliance breakdown, or just human error. Whatever way it happens, you must know at once, and this is why water sensors are important. But how exactly do they work? 

Many water sensors are conductive and work with corresponding electrodes. When water enters the area between the electrodes, an electrical circuit is formed, activating your alarm. You’ll also discover capacitive sensors that emit an electrical field. When water contacts the conductive surfaces of these components, the field is broken, and your alarm sounds. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are another option.

Some water sensors give you more

Some innovative water sensors give you even more defense as they feature incorporated temperature sensors. This is an exceptional feature in preventing frozen pipes. If there’s an extreme reduction in temperature, you’ll find out at once. Taking steps before pipes rupture will protect you from water infiltration and exorbitant repair costs.

Why connect water sensors to your South Bend smart home? 

When water emergencies happen, you need to be notified right away. You can attain this goal by connecting water sensors to your smart home. Whether you’re home to hear the alarm or away, you’ll receive an instant update on your cell phone. As an additional backup, your 24/7 monitoring team will be notified. Every second is critical in a water emergency to control the damage and interruption to your family.

Where should you put water sensors?

Any spot susceptible to an influx of water is an ideal position for water sensors. Consider installing in these locations:

  • Bathrooms: Position in back of toilets or close to tubs.
  • Basements: Water frequently infiltrates lower levels through cracked walls or because of excessive rain or malfunctioning sump pumps.
  • Around water heaters or appliances: Any water-connected appliance could leak over time.
  • Underneath sinks: Water sensors are ideal for discovering plumbing leaks in place you can’t see.
  • Attics: Identify roof leaks quickly and prevent costly damage.

Get water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your residence the complete protection it needs with advanced components from Vivint. Our water sensors in South Bend link to your Vivint cell phone app to send you immediate updates any time your alarm activates. You also benefit from incorporated temperature sensors to prevent pipe freezing. Explore the smart home devices available in South Bend by calling (574) 601-4641 today.