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

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

One minor leak in your home can result in big issues and thousands of dollars in damage. You must protect against this risk; fortunately, there’s a straightforward way to achieve this. A water sensor is an economical, simple, and effective solution. Explore how they work and why you should integrate water sensors into your Greenville smart home.

How water sensors safeguard Greenville your home

Water infiltrates homes in various ways, whether from an appliance malfunction, plumbing issue, weather-related event, or just human error. However it happens, you need to know at once, and this is how water sensors help. But how exactly do they work? 

Many water sensors are conductive and operate with two electrodes. When water infiltrates the area between the electrodes, an electrical link is formed, setting off your alarm. You’ll also come across capacitive sensors that release an electrical field. Your alarm triggers when water reaches the conductive areas of these components and interrupts the field. Optical sensors utilizing infrared LED light are an additional choice.

Get more from your water sensor

A few advanced water sensors offer even more protection as they have built-in temperature sensors. This is an outstanding feature in preventing frozen pipes. If there’s a drastic reduction in temperature, you’ll know at once. Taking steps before pipes burst will protect you from flooding and exorbitant repair costs.

Why connect water sensors to your Greenville smart home? 

When water issues occur, you must be warned right away. You can achieve this goal by integrating water sensors into your smart home. Whether you’re home to hear the alarm or away, you’ll receive an immediate update on your cell phone. In addition, your 24-hour monitoring agents will be notified. Each second matters in a water emergency to control the damage and disruption to your household.

Where should you place water sensors?

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

  • Bathrooms: Position next to tubs or in back of toilets.
  • Basements: Water commonly infiltrates basements via cracked walls or as a result of excess rain or malfunctioning sump pumps.
  • Next to water heaters or appliances: Any water-utilizing appliance could eventually leak.
  • Below sinks: Water sensors are ideal for discovering plumbing leaks in place not easy to see.
  • Attics: Catch roof leaks early and avoid expensive repairs.

Install water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your property the comprehensive protection it requires with Vivint’s advanced components. Our water sensors in Greenville connect to your Vivint smartphone app to send you immediate updates whenever your alarm activates. You also benefit from integrated temperature sensors to avert frozen pipes. Explore the smart home components available in Greenville by reaching out to (252) 648-6502 today.