Vivint Authorized Retailer Charlottesville
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Charlottesville & Surrounding Areas

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

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

One minor leak in your home can result in major issues and thousands of dollars worth of damage. You must protect against this risk; luckily, there’s a straightforward way to do so. A water sensor is a simple, effective, and affordable solution. Learn how they work and why you ought to integrate water sensors into your Charlottesville smart home.

How water sensors protect Charlottesville properties

Water infiltrates homes in numerous ways, whether from a weather-related incident, plumbing issue, appliance malfunction, or just human error. Whatever way it takes place, you have 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 function with two electrodes. When water comes in contact with the electrodes, an electrical connection is formed, activating your alarm. You’ll also find capacitive sensors that release an electrical field. When water reaches the conductive areas of these components, the field is broken, and your alarm sounds. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are an additional possibility.

Some water sensors give you more

Some innovative water sensors give you even more protection as they have built-in temperature sensors. This is an effective way to prevent frozen pipes. If there’s a drastic reduction in temperature, you’ll be notified right away. Taking steps before pipes burst will protect you from water infiltration and exorbitant repair costs.

Why incorporate water sensors into your Charlottesville smart home? 

When water issues arise, you have to be warned at once. You can attain this goal by connecting water sensors to your smart home. Whether you’re there to hear the alarm or somewhere else, you’ll receive an instant notification on your cell phone. In addition, your 24/7 monitoring agents will be informed. Every moment matters in a water emergency to control the destruction and disturbance to your life.

Where should you install water sensors?

Any spot prone to water infiltration is a suitable position for water sensors. Consider installing in these areas:

  • Bathrooms: Attach next to tubs or behind toilets.
  • Basements: Water frequently seeps into basements through damaged walls or as a result of excess rain or broken sump pumps.
  • Around water heaters or appliances: Any water-connected appliance may leak in time.
  • Below sinks: Water sensors are great for discovering plumbing leaks in locations not easy to see.
  • Attics: Identify roof leaks promptly and avert costly repairs.

Request water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your residence the comprehensive protection it needs with Vivint’s innovative devices. Our water sensors in Charlottesville link to your Vivint mobile app to provide automatic updates whenever your alarm goes off. You also benefit from incorporated temperature sensors to prevent frozen pipes. Discover all the smart home devices available in Charlottesville by reaching out to (434) 404-5302 today.