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

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

One minor leak in your home can cause major issues and thousands of dollars in damage. You must safeguard against this danger; fortunately, there’s a straightforward way to do so. A water sensor is an effective, simple, and affordable solution. Explore how they work and why you ought to integrate water sensors into your Milwaukee smart home.

How water sensors safeguard Milwaukee homes

Water penetrates homes in numerous ways, whether from an appliance breakdown, plumbing failure, storm-related event, or human error. However it takes place, you have to know immediately, and this is where water sensors come in. But how do they really work? 

Many water sensors are conductive and work with a pair of electrodes. When water infiltrates the space between the electrodes, an electrical link is established, triggering your alarm. You’ll also come across capacitive sensors that emit an electrical field. Your alarm activates when water reaches the conductive surfaces of these components and disrupts the field. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are an additional possibility.

Some water sensors give you more

Certain advanced water sensors offer even more protection as they have built-in temperature sensors. This is a smart way to prevent pipe freezing. If there’s a severe decrease in temperature, you’ll find out right away. Taking measures before pipes burst will protect you from flooding and expensive repairs.

Why connect water sensors to your Milwaukee smart home? 

When water emergencies occur, you need to be alerted right away. You can reach this goal by incorporating water sensors into your smart home. Whether you’re there to hear the alarm or away, you’ll get an automatic update on your cell phone. As an added benefit, your round-the-clock monitoring specialists will be notified. Every moment is critical in a water emergency to limit the damage and disturbance to your household.

Where should you install water sensors?

Any spot at risk of water infiltration is an appropriate place for water sensors. Install them in these spots:

  • Bathrooms: Position at the back of toilets or close to tubs.
  • Basements: Water frequently infiltrates lower floors via leaky walls or as a result of heavy rain or broken sump pumps.
  • Near water heaters or appliances: Any water-utilizing appliance might leak at some point.
  • Underneath sinks: Water sensors are great for discovering leaky pipes in place you can’t see.
  • Attics: Identify roof leaks early and avoid costly damage.

Install water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your property the complete protection it deserves with modern components from Vivint. Our water sensors in Milwaukee link to your Vivint smartphone app to send you automatic alerts whenever your alarm activates. You also enjoy incorporated temperature sensors to prevent frozen pipes. Discover all the smart home tools available in Milwaukee by calling (414) 409-5889 today.