Water Leak Detection Equipment: A Guide To Requirements

Recently a client contacted us to find out more about water leak detection equipment that may potentially be needed for her home. Unfortunately, she had suffered from a leak underneath her shower that had gone unnoticed for a considerable length of time. The leak had spread to several rooms underneath and had caused thousands of pounds of damage to her property. After consulting with her, we saw that the client had limited ideas on what shower leak detection system to install. In this article, we will summarise the advice that helped her choose the correct water leak detection system for her needs.

Why Install Domestic Water Leak Detection Equipment?

Water leak detection systems offer several crucial benefits:

• Rapid Leak Detection: Modern water leak alarm systems can quickly identify the source of a leak, allowing you to take immediate action before it causes extensive damage.
• Minimise Property Damage: By detecting leaks early, these systems can significantly reduce the damage caused by water, saving you from costly repairs.
• Potential Insurance Benefits: Installing a water leak detection system may lead to lower insurance premiums, as insurers are likely to reduce rates for homes equipped with damage-preventing technology.

Water damage is amongst the most common household insurance claims in the UK. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) reports that water-related incidents cost insurers £1.8 million daily. The average UK household claim for water damage has skyrocketed to £3,242, impacting both residential and commercial properties.

Understanding the Different Types of Water Leak Detection Systems

When considering the water leak detection equipment that best meets your requirements, it’s essential to understand the options available:

Flow-Based Leak Detection Systems

Flow-based systems, such as the BLDA1-2 alarm, monitor the water flow into your property. A sensor installed in your main water supply line measures the flow rate. If the flow exceeds normal levels, the system triggers an alarm and can even shut off the water supply to prevent further damage. These systems are ideal for detecting significant leaks, such as those from a burst pipe or faulty seal.There’s an upgrade option here too. Some flow-based systems can be enhanced to detect continuous small leaks, providing even more comprehensive protection.

Sensor-Based Leak Detection Systems

Sensor-based systems, like the LD1 alarm kit, use detection cables placed in areas most susceptible to leaks, such as under cold water storage tanks, showers, or air conditioning units. When water contacts the cable, it sends a signal to the control panel, triggering an alarm.These systems can be customised to monitor multiple zones, ranging from a single area (like a small tea point) to an entire multi-floor office building. Sensor-based systems are particularly effective for detecting small leaks in critical or hard-to-reach areas.

Types of Water Leak Alarm Systems:

Once you have decided to install a water leak detection system, you need to be aware of the different types:

There are two main options to choose from:

Flow based leak detection like the BLDA1-2 alarm or Zonal leak detection like the LD1 alarm kit.

Flow Based Water Leak Detection

With these solutions, a flow sensor is installed into your incoming mains water supply, which measures the rate of water flow into your property. The Water Leak panel triggers an alarm when the water flow is higher than normal. A Shut-off valve can also be fitted to actively cut-off your water supply and stop the leak.

The Flow based water leak alarm can also be upgraded to monitor for continuous small leaks in your water supply.

Sensor Based Water Leak Detection

In sensor-based leak detection, a leak detection cable is fitted where you have the highest chance of a leak. For example this could be under a cold water storage tank, a shower, or an air conditioning unit.

When water comes into contact with the cable a signal is sent to the main panel causing it to trigger an alarm.

The alarm panel can come in various sizes to accommodate different numbers of zones. This can range from one zone (such as a small tea-point area) to 64 zones (e.g. a multi floor office block with lots of separate toilets, data centres and power plants).

Finding the Right Water Leak Detection Equipment For Your Needs

The decision between flow-based and sensor-based systems depends on your specific needs:

• Flow-Based Systems are easier to install and better suited for detecting large leaks.
• Sensor-Based Systems are more accurate and more sensitive, ideal for critical areas prone to smaller leaks.

Before selecting a water leak detection system, consult with your insurance company. They can provide guidance on the most suitable options based on your home or business needs. Integrating an advanced water leak detection system is not only a proactive step in protecting your property but also a smart financial decision that could lead to reduced insurance premiums.

For more information on water leak detection products and to discuss your specific requirements, contact CMR Electrical today. Get in touch here, or on social media through Facebook and Linkedin.