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How Do Leak Detection Systems Work

You’ve probably experienced how inconvenient having a water leak can be. Not only do they happen to your pipes, but also to other parts of your homes as well. It can occur in the subsurface, in your foundations, floors, walls, appliances and toilet fixtures. And you’re not the only one complaining. This is why through time, professionals and manufacturers have developed technologically advanced devices and systems for leak detection. It allows you to detect leaks as they happen, so you can have it repaired by a plumber right away and prevent long term damage.

There are 2 main types of smart leak detection system for Cape Town: active and passive. Here I will discuss each one.

Table of Contents

Passive Leak Detection System

The passive system informs you that there is a leak by making an alarm sound and sometimes having flashing lights. When this happens you need to shut off the water main and call a plumber immediately. The system is simple and it involves installation of stand-alone devices that are battery operated on walls or floor. It has a moisture sensor, and the alarm is triggered when the wall or floor surface becomes moist. A typical device can continuously sound an alarm for up to 72 hours straight if the battery is fully charged. You need to replace the battery every year for the device to work properly.

Active Leak Detection System

The active system works the same way as the passive system, only it has an added feature of shutting the water valve. It can be installed to a single appliance or as a whole system in the house. The device can be connected to your water heater, for example, and when a leak is detected it will automatically shut the water heater off.

The complete system will shut off the water main if a leak is detected. This is a more complicated installation since the wiring of the devices will have to be connected to the main control panel. A wireless system can also be used but it is more expensive.

Connection to Home Security Alarm Panel

Some systems can be connected directly to the security panel of your home and can notify an off-site authority or plumbing company.

Panic Switch

Most systems have a panic switch that lets you turn off the main water switch with the push of a button. This is very helpful in case of plumbing emergencies.

Temperature Sensors

These devices also have built-in temperature sensors and you can shut off the main water valve when the temperature drops. This will minimize pipe damage if in case it gets frozen during winter season.

Leak Locator

You will know which device has detected the moisture individually or through the control panel. Hence, it will be easier for the plumber to detect the source of the leak.

Having a smart leak detection system can be an investment at the beginning, but it is advantageous when leaks are starting to occur in your home. It is also up to you to determine your needs and what system you should use.

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