Should I Have A Flood Detector For My Home In Charleston?

With all of the rain we’ve had so far this spring and what looks like more on the way, we’d like to review something we often help homeowners with when it comes to excessive water in their homes or businesses: water leak detection & flood alarms.

According to the Insurance Research Council, about 85% of property water damage claims are caused by faulty indoor appliances (washing machines, water heaters, etc.), plumbing leaks and flooding from rain. The rest are from sewers and sump pumps. Water damage alone is the second most frequently filed insurance claim in the US.

Water damage can severely affect a home, especially if it is not immediately detected; this is where flood/water sensors can help prevent long-term damage to your home.

What Is A Flood Detector? How Does It Work?

A flood detector (or, water sensor) is a small electronic piece of equipment that is used to detect the presence of water in basements, bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms & other places where water may be leaked.

Modern flood detectors are wireless and can easily tie into your existing home security system and home automation system. Most sensors use a probe or small cable that lies flat on the floor. The probe uses electrical conductivity of water. Essentially when water is present the resistance of across the contacts of the probe decreases (connecting the contacts), which triggers the sensor to send an alert.

Stop Damage Before It Starts

Flood detectors that are tied into your monitored home security system will alert the monitoring station that water levels are high enough to cause an issue. The monitoring station can then alert you or your property manager that that area of your home or property needs to be looked at immediately to prevent damage.

Without any flood detectors present, water levels can rise and seep into other areas of your home — especially if you’re away for an extended period of time.

Flood detectors can also be tied into devices that turn the water off the entire water supply in your home, preventing further flooding (if source of flooding is internal).

Flood Detection In Charleston & Lowcountry

With most water damage comes from appliance malfunctions or plumbing nationwide, water damage from flooding is especially bad in areas near the coast, including Charleston; meaning that protecting yourself against water damage is even more important down here.

As with all of the products & services we offer, flood detection is yet another way we offer Peace of Mind to homeowners and business owners in the Lowcountry.

If you have any further questions about flood detection, water sensors or any related topics feel free to give us a call (843.789.9994) or contact us today to get a free consultation.