Vivint Authorized Retailer Fargo
Smart Security Specialists -- Your Vivint Authorized Dealer Covering Fargo & Surrounding Areas

How does a water sensor work and why use one with your Fargo smart home?

April 21, 2025
Smartphone app notifies resident of water infiltration

One small leak in your home can result in big difficulties and thousands in damage. You have to safeguard against this danger; thankfully, there’s an easy way to do so. A water sensor is an economical, simple, and effective solution. See how they work and why you might connect water sensors to your Fargo smart home.

How water sensors safeguard Fargo homes

Water infiltrates homes in many ways, whether from a weather-related event, plumbing failure, appliance snafu, or human error. However it occurs, you have to know immediately, and this is how water sensors help. But how precisely do they work? 

Many water sensors are conductive and operate with two electrodes. When water makes contact with the electrodes, an electrical link is created, setting off your alarm. You’ll also come across capacitive sensors that release an electrical field. Your alarm sounds when water reaches the conductive parts of these devices and interrupts the field. Optical sensors using infrared LED light are an additional possibility.

Some water sensors give you more

Certain advanced water sensors provide even more peace of mind as they feature integrated temperature sensors. This is an exceptional tool in preventing pipe freezing. If there’s a drastic decrease in temperature, you’ll find out immediately. Taking steps before pipes rupture will shield you from water damage and expensive repairs.

Why incorporate water sensors into your Fargo smart home? 

When water problems arise, you need to be warned at once. You can achieve this aim by connecting water sensors to your smart home. Whether you’re on site to hear the alarm or not, you’ll receive an immediate notification on your smartphone. As an added benefit, your 24/7 monitoring specialists will be informed. Each second matters in a water emergency to control the destruction and disruption to your life.

Where should you install water sensors?

Any spot prone to an influx of water is an appropriate position for water sensors. Install them in these locations:

  • Bathrooms: Position at the back of toilets or near tubs.
  • Basements: Water frequently seeps into basements through damaged walls or due to heavy rain or faulty sump pumps.
  • Around water heaters or appliances: Any water-connected appliance might eventually leak.
  • Underneath sinks: Water sensors are great for detecting leaky pipes in place hidden from view.
  • Attics: Detect roof leaks quickly and avoid expensive repairs.

Get water sensors with your Vivint smart home

Give your home the robust protection it deserves with Vivint’s advanced components. Our water sensors in Fargo link to your Vivint cell phone app to send you instant updates when your alarm activates. You also benefit from built-in temperature sensors to avoid pipe freezing. Explore the smart home tools available in Fargo by reaching out to (701) 699-4489 today.