Water ends up in our home for a variety of reasons.  Whether it is from a flood, broken pipe or a heavy downpour, there is a way that we as homeowners can employ to help prevent leaks from turning into something bigger.  Today’s technology allows us to install water alarms, appliance alarms and whole house alarm systems.  Just what are they and can they help you, let us explore each type. 

Water alarms are a water detection device which will give an early warning to the homeowner where ever water leaking and moisture are issues in the home.  They can be placed near toilets, tubs and sinks to help signal to you if there is a leak.  They can be used in basements to signal you whenever there is a leak or increased moisture present.  By using a water alarm, it will help notify you of any small leak which you can fix before it becomes a major problem.  These systems are relatively inexpensive and any homeowner can install them.  They typically run on batteries and let off a very loud beep whenever moisture or water is detected.  This is the alarm that lets the owner know that there is a potential issue that needs to be taken care of before it gets worse.

The appliance systems are exactly that; systems that are applied to specific appliances such as a clothes washer or a dishwasher.  This system is wonderful if you are worried about leaks coming from your major appliances.  Once a leak occurs, the system automatically shuts off the water supply to that appliance thus decreasing the amount of water that ends up in your home.  These systems are a little bit pricer, but well worth the piece of mind.  Some do-it-themselves homeowners might be able to install this type of system, but in some cases a qualified plumber will be needed to make sure that the system is installed correctly (especially if you are going to install on your water heater).

The final type of water alarm is what is called the whole house system.  This type of system is the most expensive type.  The cost depends on the size of the system that you get and the cost of the professional labor for installing it in your home.   It will generally take about one day to have an entire home water alarm system installed.  The benefit of this system is that it has a shut off valve that is installed at the main water supply to the house.  Whenever there is a leak detected, the system will shut down the entire water supply to the house.  This is great if you own a home that is used during the summer, but not a lot during the winter.  If a pipe bursts then the system shuts off the water thus preventing the likelihood of further damage to your property. 

No matter what type of system you choose to go with, a home water alarm is a great investment for every homeowner.  In the long run, it will help decrease the overall costs of leaks turning into basement floods, or broken pipes destroying a home.  It is definitely a great technology that will give you the peace of mind you need.