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

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

One tiny leak in your home can lead to big difficulties and thousands of dollars in damage. You need to safeguard against this risk; luckily, there’s an easy way to accomplish this. A water sensor is a budget-friendly, simple, and effective solution. Learn how they work and why you should incorporate water sensors into your Harrisburg smart home.

How water sensors shield Harrisburg homes

Water infiltrates homes in many ways, whether from a plumbing failure, weather-related incident, appliance malfunction, or simple human error. Whatever way it takes place, you need to know immediately, and this is why water sensors are important. But how precisely do they work? 

Many water sensors are conductive and work with corresponding electrodes. When water makes contact with the electrodes, an electrical circuit is created, triggering your alarm. You’ll also come across capacitive sensors that release an electrical field. Your alarm triggers when water reaches the conductive parts of these devices and interrupts the field. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are another possibility.

Get more from your water sensor

Some innovative water sensors offer even more defense as they have incorporated temperature sensors. This is a smart way to prevent frozen pipes. If there’s a drastic reduction in temperature, you’ll know at once. Taking steps before pipes burst will save you from water damage and costly repairs.

Why integrate water sensors into your Harrisburg smart home? 

When water issues occur, you must be alerted at once. You can reach this goal by incorporating water sensors into your smart home. Whether you’re there to hear the alarm or somewhere else, you’ll receive an automatic notification on your cell phone. In addition, your 24-hour monitoring specialists will be alerted. Every second matters in a water emergency to minimize the damage and interruption to your household.

Where should you put water sensors?

Any spot susceptible to flooding is an ideal position for water sensors. Put them in these locations:

  • Bathrooms: Position near bathtubs or behind toilets.
  • Basements: Water frequently seeps into lower floors through leaky walls or due to excess rain or malfunctioning sump pumps.
  • Near water heaters or appliances: Any water-connected appliance might leak in time.
  • Under sinks: Water sensors are perfect for identifying leaky pipes in place not easy to see.
  • Attics: Identify roof leaks quickly and prevent costly repairs.

Install water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your residence the robust protection it needs with modern tools from Vivint. Our water sensors in Harrisburg integrate with your Vivint smartphone app to send you instant alerts when your alarm is triggered. You also enjoy integrated temperature sensors to avoid frozen pipes. Learn more about the smart home components available in Harrisburg by dialing (717) 844-9116 today.