Water alarms
Place water alarms around your home to know when potential water issues are detected.
On this page
Who should take action
- Homeowners
- Renters
- Landlords and property managers
- Most important for homes with:
- previous water damage and basement flooding
- cracks (previously sealed or unsealed) in basement floors, walls and near windows
What it is
A water alarm, also known as a leak detector, uses sensors to detect unwanted water in your home.
These alarms provide an early warning when water is detected, such as a sound alarm, digital message, or a visual indicator. An alarm can be triggered by:
- a puddle of water
- water seeping through cracks
- humidity
When a leak is detected, some smart models can be programmed to:
- notify you through a mobile application or through your home's central alarm system
- automatically shut off your home's water supply line. This type of system has a complex set up and should be installed by a professional
Remember that a water alarm can't identify the underlying issue. You'll need to check what set off the alarm and take steps to fix the root cause, whether it's repairing a burst pipe or clearing a clog to stop an overflowing drain. Alarms should not replace your regular home inspection for leaks and other potential water issues.
Benefits
- Water alarms can provide early detection of what could become a costly issue
- Smart models connected to a mobile device can provide peace of mind when you're away from home
What you'll need
- Water alarm
- Batteries
- Wi-Fi hub that connects smart alarms to your home's Wi-Fi
- This is included with the device
What's involved
Water alarms are easily installed by following the instructions provided with the device.
Consider purchasing multiple water alarms for your home, especially if your home's plumbing fixtures are spread across a large space or multiple floors.
Place the devices in areas where water damage could occur, such as:
- basement floors near sump pumps, under windows, or near cracks in your foundation
- washing machines
- hot water tanks
- near the following in your basement or lowest floor of your home:
- floor drains
- toilets
- under sinks
When to do it
- Replace your water alarm batteries annually or as instructed by the manufacturer
- Test your alarm annually
- Place it in a bathtub or small container and run water until it makes contact with the alarm's sensor
- Once the alarm sounds, dry it off and return it to its spot
Monitor your alarms. They can issue false alarms, and fail due to age or lack of power.
Be flood ready
Flood readiness requires regular upkeep just like any other home or property maintenance task. Add water alarm maintenance to your annual task checklist.
Seek support from a local professional, friend, family or neighbour if you're unable to complete this task on your own.