6 best water heater leak detectors

Water heater leak detectors are devices designed to monitor and alert homeowners to potential water leaks from their water heaters. These devices play a crucial role in preventing water damage and minimizing the risk of costly repairs. Here is what you need to know about them:

  1. Functionality: Water heater leak detectors work by sensing moisture or water accumulation around the base of the water heater. When they detect any sign of a leak, they trigger an alarm or notification to alert the homeowner.

  2. Types of Sensors: There are different types of sensors used in these detectors, including:

    • Moisture Sensors: These sensors detect even small amounts of moisture and are placed in areas prone to leaks.

    • Float Switches: Float switches activate when they come into contact with rising water levels, triggering an alarm.

    • Wi-Fi/Smart Sensors: Some modern leak detectors are equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and can send alerts to your smartphone or home automation system, providing real-time notifications.

  3. Audible Alarms: Most water heater leak detectors come with built-in audible alarms, which emit loud sounds when a leak is detected. This helps homeowners quickly locate the source of the problem.

  4. Visual Indicators: Some detectors have LED lights or digital displays that provide a visual indication of the leak status.

  5. Smart Home Integration: As part of a broader smart home ecosystem, some water heater leak detectors can integrate with other devices such as smart thermostats or security systems. This allows for more comprehensive home monitoring and automation.

  6. Battery or Wired: These detectors can be battery-operated or wired directly into your home's electrical system. Battery-powered units offer flexibility in placement but require periodic battery replacement.

  7. Placement: Proper placement of the detector is essential.It should be positioned near the base of the water heater and in any areas where water might accumulate.

  8. Benefits: The primary benefit of water heater leak detectors is early detection of leaks, which can prevent significant water damage to your home. They can also save you money on repair bills and insurance premiums.

  9. Maintenance: Regularly check and clean the sensors to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace batteries in battery-operated detectors as needed.

  10. Cost: The cost of water heater leak detectors can vary depending on their features and capabilities. Basic models with audible alarms tend to be more affordable, while smart detectors with advanced features may be pricier.

In conclusion, water heater leak detectors are valuable tools for homeowners, helping to protect their homes from water damage caused by water heater leaks. These devices come in various types and offer different features, making it possible to choose one that best suits your needs and budget. Proper placement and maintenance are key to ensuring their effectiveness in safeguarding your home.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best water heater leak detectors on the market
  

Zircon Leak Alert Water Leak Detector & Flood Sensor Alarm/ Water Leak Sensor with Dual Leak Alarms 90Db Audio/ Battery Powered (2 Pack) Batteries Not Included , Audio Only - 68320

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Zircon leak Alert electronic water detector is now available in a money saving bonus pack which includes 2 leak Alert units without batteries. Zircon leak Alert is perfect for use near water heaters, sinks, dishwashers, sump pumps, and more. Protect your home from water damage by placing the leak Alert in any place that has potential for flooding or leaks. A loud (90dB) alarm sounds with direct water contact. The leak Alert requires an easily installed 9V battery, no wiring or hub required. Should flooding occur, The leak Alert will float and sound A loud audible signal. The leak Alert has a low battery warning for optimum performance. Just like your smoke detector, remember to check and replace your leak Alert batteries every year.

  • Loud (90dB) alarm sounds when even the slightest amount of moisture is detected
  • In flood situations, the Leak Alert water detector is engineered to float and continue to sound the SOS alarm for up to 72 hours or until the battery is exhausted
  • Fully automatic battery-powered operation - no wiring required for this leak sensor. Like your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a low battery warning chirps an alarm when it is time to replace the 9V battery
  • Place in basements, bathrooms, kitchens, or wherever there is a potential for leaks. Common placements of the leak detector are near sump pumps, water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, under sinks, etc.
  • Bonus Pack includes 2 Leak Alert units - batteries are not included

User questions & answers

Question: Does it work with SmartThings
Answer: Emails come from Zircon, through Amazon SES. If the service is discontinued, the unit will continue to be an alarm, just no remote notifications. And by then, there may be a replacement.
Question: After replaced new battery. I tested the alarm and no beep. Is that ok
Answer: Works with 196 and new
Question: will it float in water
Answer: Yes, it will work with the Chevy 2005 cargo van
Question: Where do the emails come from? even though there's no hub, it must connect to a remote email server (at zircon?). what if zircon stops this service
Answer: COMPATIBLE WITH MOST CARS: Diagnose and clear the check engine light of US cars made from 1996 to date, or European and Asian cars made from 2000 to date. If your car is OBD II compliant, the MS300 automatic OBD 2 scan tool should work without a hitch.

Product features

Zircon Leak Alert

Undetected water can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Place a Leak Alert water detector anywhere the potential for flooding or leaks exist.

The Leak Alert WiFi provides a loud audio alert to homeowners, renters, business owners, and property managers alike. Be alerted to water leaks as soon as one is detected.

No Wires. No Hassle.

The Leak Alert has two external metal sensing contacts running a mild electrical current. When both strips get wet, through a plumbing leak, flood, or surrounding moisture condensing on the surface, the electrical circuit will complete, and the alarm will sound.

The Leak Alert detector is not a one-time use device. Each time the sensing contacts make contact with moisture and the alarm sounds, simply dry the contacts. Return the detector to its location or choose a new location as needed.

All that is needed to operate the tool is a fresh 9V alkaline battery with an extended expiration date.

1. Install the Battery

Install a new 9V alkaline battery in your Leak Alert. Just like your smoke detectors, the battery in a Leak Alert should be changed on an annual basis at minimum. For additional security, the unit will chirp if the battery is running low and will float in the event of a flood.

2. Placement

Place a Leak Alert in any location where there is a potential for water damage and flooding such as in the:

- Bathroom

- Laundry Room

- Kitchen

- Basement

- Garage

3. Respond to Alarm

Lay the Leak Alert flat with the metal contacts facing down and touching the surface. When the Leak Alert's metal sensing contacts come into contact with water, a loud 90 dB alarm sounds for up to 72 hours. The alarm is as loud as your standard smoke detector. In the event of a severe flood, the Leak Alert floats and continues to sound an alarm until the battery is depleted. To minimize property damage, respond to the alarm as quickly as possible.

zircon, water-detector, flood sensing, sensor, moisture alarm, sump pump, sumppump, basement, wetnes

Question: Do I need to plug the Leak Alert into an outlet?

Answer: No, The Leak Alert only requires a brand new 9V alkaline battery with an extended expiration date.

Q: Are the Leak Alert water detectors reusable once they’ve been activated?

A: Yes, they can be reused after the two exterior metal sensor contacts are fully dried. Be sure to remove the battery, wipe the detector’s contacts, and let it air dry for minimum of 24 hours.

Q: My basement and garage can get very cold during the winter. Will my Leak Alert still function in that environment?

A: The tool operates between 20° and 105°F and can be stored, when not in use, between 20° and 150°F.

Q: How loud is the alarm?

A: The alarm is 90 dB, which is the same volume, or louder a standard smoke detector.

Q: Does the Leak Alert work on damp carpet?

A: Yes, if the spacing of the carpet fibers are close enough and the two exterior metal sensing contacts are in direct contact with the wet carpet, the detector should sound its alarm.

E-SDS Water Leak Detector with Shutoff Valve,Sensors and Sounds Alarm,Automatic Water Leak Shut Off Valve System,for Pipes 3/4 NPT,Flood Prevention for Laundry,Water Heaters and More

Based on 30 reviews Check latest price

Product description

E-SDS Automatic Water Leak Shut off Valve System,Water Leak Detector with Valves,Water Heater Auto-Shutoff Valve,3/4 NPT,Stop Flood for Laundry and Water Heater and More



When a water leak is detected by the sensor it will sound an alarm and send a signal to automatically shut off the incoming water supply. Typically installed on a water heater or washing machine outlet box and sensor placed in pan or floor under water heater or washing machine outlet box. It also includes manual open/close buttons and a button to reset after the leak is repaired. They can also be used in so many other locations in residential and commercial environments.



Specification

Alarm startup time:1 second

Alarm time:(pause 10s and then alarm again)

Output electric potential:120dBu

Valve close time:1s

Power adaptor:DC12 0.5A



Package

1,Automatic shutoff valve x 1

2,Control Unit x 1

3,Water leak sensor x 1

4,Power adaptor

5,User manual

  • Leak Detection Automatic Shutoff–Leak Prevention Device will automatically shut off the water to your appliances to keep your house from flooding when you’re out off home.It also includes manual open/close buttons and a button to reset after the leak is repaired.It's be used in so many locations in residential and commercial environments like water heater and laundry.
  • Automatic Shutoff Valves & Easy installation–The brass NPT threaded 3/4 ball valves which allows you to control a flood; It will shut off the water when the system detects a leak.It could be used with hot water.Temp≤100℃(212℉).Easy installation by attaching to existing plumbing.
  • Vacation Mode– This device gives you the ability to manually shut off the water while on your trip.
  • Water Leak Sensor– Comes with a sensor that will shut off the water when the water reaches it.Cable length of Water leak sensor:19.68ft/6m.
  • WARRANTY: Two year warranty; Contact our customer service and they will help with any issues and concerns that you may have.Note:The port inside this valve will be smaller than 3/4.

User questions & answers

Question: is this recommended to use to level a pool
Answer: I do not know , I returned my light it would not charge
Question: Is there a one inch model
Answer: Hello, my friend, yes, multiple detectors can be added to the same WiFi and APP
Question: I need two new senors for my e-sds water detector
Answer: Hello! Dear friend, have you encountered any problems? If the water sensor detects water leakage or a preset overrun, the water detector will emit a 60dB alarm sound on the spot. The alarm will sound within 60 seconds and send an alarm message within 2-10 seconds. To smartphone (depending on network speed)
Question: How do I get warranry support? The sensor has stopped working and just keeps the alarm on which renders the unit useless. It is only 7 months old
Answer: I am afraid not.. The water alarm sensor design easy to use for anyone.

MyGuard Automatic Hot Water Heater Shut Off System and Water Leak Alarm and Detector

Based on 227 reviews Check latest price
  • Protect your home or business from water damage from your water heater and save money on your homeowners insurance
  • Upon water detection, incoming water flow is automatically turned off – preventing costly damage from flooding
  • Easy DIY installation – attaches to existing plumbing; compatible with lever-action ball valves only
  • Simply install the unit and place the water leak sensor on the floor
  • Loud 90dB continuous alarm when water leak occurs

User questions & answers

Question: I had a false alarm. the sensor is dry and there is no moisuture but i am unable to rest it. is anyone else having the same issue? what's the solution
Answer: Yes, you can use those ear pads for your bose qc15
Question: I have version 1 of this system, is it possible to just order the wifi control module
Answer: Yes, these ear pad cushions can fit bose® ae2 audio headphones
Question: Why cant you put senser in washing machine pan
Answer: They are very easy to install, only need 4 steps, and we also upload video to teach you how to replace bose ear pads, you can check this in detail page
Question: Can you extend the length of the cord from the sensor to the shutoff? We need to put the water valves on the other side of a small wall
Answer: If you purchase an EP1305 from an Earphone Connection dealer, then you will receive an Earphone Connection branded product. The picture is a representation of the product. The difference is that the wires will be long enough for intended use.

Product features

System Works in 4 Seconds

How the system works:

  • Water is detected
  • Valve shut off is initiated
  • 90dB alarm sounds
  • Your space is secure and safe

Your home is secure, all within seconds, saving you from a damaging and expensive water disaster.

Installation Is Easy

Installation is easy – simply attach the system to your existing plumbing and place the water leak sensor under your hot water heater!

Note: This water heater shut off system is compatible with lever-action ball valves.

Everything You Need Is Included

Includes: Control unit, floor sensor, pressure-release output pipe sensor, power adapter for control unit, 3-outlet AC wall tap, mounting template for the control unit, automatic shut-off servo motor, 2 Servo pipe-mounting brackets, hardware bag with 1 double-sided tape for control unit, 2 drywall screws with anchors (#6 x 1-1/4” Phillips pan-head), 2 masonry screws (3/16” flat-head), 2 wire ties (100L), 3 wire ties with double-sided tape, 1 large centering ring (20D), 1 wire tie (163L), 1 screw (M4), 2 carriage bolts (M5x50x0.8mm), 2 carriage bolts (M5x30x0.8mm), 2 carriage bolts (M5x24x0.8mm), 4 wing nuts, 4 washers, 4 spring washers, 1 allen wrench

No Wiring is Necessary

Easy DIY Installation – just attach to your existing plumbing, plug in to a standard wall outlet and place the water sensor on the floor

E-SDS Automatic Water Leak Shut Off Valve System,Water Leak Detector with 2 Valves,2 Sensors and Sounds Alarm,for Pipes 3/4 NPT,Flood Prevention for Laundry Washing Machines,Water Heaters and More

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description





E-SDS Automatic Water Leak Shut off Valve System,Water Leak Detector with 2 Valves,2 Sensors and Sounds Alarm,3/4 NPT,Stop Flood for Laundry and Water Heater and More



When a water leak is detected by the sensor it will sound an alarm and send a signal to automatically shut off the incoming water supply. Typically installed on a water heater or washing machine outlet box and sensor placed in pan or floor under water heater or washing machine outlet box. It also includes manual open/close buttons and a button to reset after the leak is repaired. They can also be used in so many other locations in residential and commercial environments. Our kit comes with everything you need: Motorized Stainless Steel Shutoff Valve NTP Pipe Threaded, Valve Controller with power adaptor (support backup battery) , and Water Detector Bell Probe.



Specification

Alarm startup time:1 second

Alarm time:(pause 10s and then alarm again)

Output electric potential:80dBu

Valve close time:1s

Battery type:AA(not included)

Power adaptor:DC12 0.5A

It can connect with home security alarm and control it by 3P terminal cable.



Package

1,Automatic shutoff valve x 2

2,Control Unit x 1

3,Water leak sensor x 2

4,Power adaptor

5,User manual

  • Leak Detection Automatic Shutoff–Leak Prevention Device will automatically shut off the water to your appliances to keep your house from flooding when you’re out off home.It also includes manual open/close buttons and a button to reset after the leak is repaired.It's be used in so many locations in residential and commercial environments like water heater and laundry.
  • Automatic Shutoff Valves & Easy installation–Two brass NPT threaded 3/4 ball valves which allows you to control a flood from two points; It will shut off the water at two points of entry when the system detects a leak.It could be used with hot water.Temp≤100℃(212℉).Easy installation by attaching to existing plumbing.
  • Vacation Mode & Backup Battery– This device gives you the ability to manually shut off the water while on your trip.With the backup battery your still covered if the power goes out, the system will still shut off water valve and sound alarm.
  • Water Leak Sensor– Comes with 2 sensors that will shut off the water when the water reaches them.2 sensors more safe that you could take it more places.Cable length of Water leak sensor:19.68ft/6m.
  • WARRANTY: Two year warranty; Contact our customer service and they will help with any issues and concerns that you may have.

User questions & answers

Question: Can a spare sensor be purchased as it looks like the sensor die over time
Answer: Mine are older and they fit fine. They're at least five years old but are exactly the same Quiet Comfort 15s I had before that for about five years. I hope this helps.
Question: Can a replacement sensor be purchased? What is the part number and cost
Answer: Hi, Actually we have no paper instructions included, we strongly recommend our customers to watch some video instructions on UTube which is more straight forward and much easier to understand how to do. Sometimes mistake happens, if you have problems installing them after enough tries, they may be defective units, you will be covered by our satisfaction guarantee. Just contact us via order page and we will handle it for you. Thank you! Best regards
Question: Once you have purchased and it arrives . Can you test it to reinsure that the unit works before installing it ? Or will that damage the sensors
Answer: Get the official Bose ear pad replacement, they will fit perfect. I returned these as they did not really fit.
Question: Could I use this for the whole house just after the main shutoff valve
Answer: They came quickly so I assume not China.

LeakSmart Automatic Leak Detection and Water Appliance Shut Off Kits- Protect Your Home from High Leak Risk Appliances (1, 3/4" Water Heater)

LEAKSMART

Based on 25 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Direct shut-off appliance kit. Closed-circuit leak protection system designed exclusively for high-risk appliances. Prevent and detect water damage with the LeakSmart wired leak detection and supply line shut-off kit, within 5 seconds of detecting a leak.

  • Easy-to-read LED control panel indicating closed or open
  • Comes with battery back-up in case of power outage
  • Activates an audible alarm when a leak is detected
  • Triggers an audible alarm and flashes blue when a leak is detected
  • After leak detection, system can be reset and reused can accommodate additional wired LeakSmart (sold separately)

User questions & answers

Question: How many sensors can be hooked up
Answer: We recommend not to exceed 50 ft of sensors. Each sensor is 9 feet in length so you can have a total of 5 sensors attached together for this unit.
Question: Is there a reason none of these are listed for toilets
Answer: Sounds like your protecting against toilet leaks or overflow while you are gone for extended periods. If you have a shutoff valve at your toilet, you could probably remove that valve and adapt the pipe or tube supplying the toilet to work with the LeakSmart valve (compression-to-threaded pipe or threaded pipe-to-correct size of LeakSmart valve). You'd have to deal with the wires and ensure power. (As an alternative, since many shutoff valves have plastic stems that can break from using them often or when they freeze up from calcium build-up , I replaced our toilet shutoff with a metal stemmed 1/4 turn shutoff valve and just turn it off when gone for extended periods.)
Question: Can battery be used as a prime power source
Answer: yes you can use battery as your main source of power but if you do not check them or hear the low battery warning then your up the creek .water everywhere. do not see why you would want to do this.there has to be an outlet somewhere nearby.use an extension .by the way this is a great system .glad i found it .no more overfilled washing machine flooding my floor. and best of all it checks itself every 22 hours.smart.you can also make extra sensors with a peace of plastic and 2 small bolts and some thin wire.i made 3 extras and now my whole laundry room is protected.
Question: Would this valve trip automatically and need a manual reset if the power goes out? That way I wouldn't lose prime on the well if the water's running
Answer: The wired unit will not close in a power loss event. The valve is gear driven , not a solenoid type valve that requires power for a normally open or closed position. The unit takes 4 AA batteries for a battery backup for protection during a power outage. If you have any additional questions, we would be happy to assist at [email protected].

FloodStop Water Heater Auto-Shutoff Valve, FS3/4NPT, V4 Controller, Water Damage Prevention

FloodStop

Based on 158 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Prevent flood damage and avoid costly repairs with the easy-to-install, newly designed Lead free Water Heater Auto-Shutoff Valve. This system not only detects leaks early, but it automatically shuts your water off in the event of a leak, alerting you with the control panel's alarm. Designed for both residential and commercial dwellings. The FloodStop (FS 3/4-NPT) kit automatically shuts off the water supply to the Water Heater and sounds an alarm, leaving all other household fixtures and appliances operational. This kit includes everything you need to protect your property from costly water-leak damage: Motorized Full-Port Ball Valve (3/4 inch NPT pipe threaded), a water sensor to be placed on the floor, and the control unit, which is mounted to your wall with the included screws. A power supply is included; you need to also install four AA batteries (not included) for backup power, unit will beep to alert you of low or no batteries. The controller has “one” output contact (normally open) that can be attached to a dialer or security system so you can be alerted to a leak when not home! You can even add multiple water sensors for different areas around your water heater. If your water heater should begin to leak, the controller tells the water valve to close and alerts you with an 87db alarm.

  • Prevent Water Damages - This automatic shut off valve will trigger when a leak is detected from your water heater, potentially preventing 200+ gallons of water leaking into your home.
  • Easy To Install - The FloodStop valve is installed between the water heater and the manual shutoff valve; can be installed in fifteen minutes.
  • Sensor At Base Of Heater - The sensor part of this system is placed at the base of the water heater. As long as the sensor stays dry, the valve will stay open permitting water to flow through to the heater.
  • Immediate Shutdown - Once the leak sensor at the base of the heator senses moisture, the valve will immediately close off all water flow and sound alarms.
  • Certified Lead Free - Certified lead free under S. 3874, AB1953 with a One Year Manufacturer's Warranty.

User questions & answers

Question: Do I really need this if my tank is by a couple of floor drains
Answer: Yes they come with new cloth inserts
Question: If there is problem with the unit can it be opened manualy
Answer: They are very easy to install, only need 4 steps, and we also upload video to teach you how to replace bose ear pads, you can check this in detail page
Question: Is there an indication (light etc.) if the unit is running only on batteries but not on AC power
Answer: No it will not fit on ear headphones
Question: Replaced the batteries twice with new Duracell’s. The unit is back online, and the valves work, no moisture, but we still get a beep every 60 sec
Answer: Dear customer, Sorry for the late reply, the dimentions are as Mr W H Sherlock mentioned, "20mm Deep, 77mm wide at widest part, 98mm long at longest dimension, 21mm seal width". I think if your headphone is among the compatible-product-list, they will fit. If you have any problem of these ear pads, please contact us and we will try our best to help. Thanks BR

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