Environmental Sensors
How to protect your home from water damage
Many people install a home security system for intrusion protection. You don’t want someone breaking in, right? But staying safe can also involve environmental protection, or devices to help protect your family and home from fire, carbon monoxide or flood damage.
There is a wide range of environmental sensors to choose from that can help protect your home:
This article and accompanying podcast will focus on Water Sensors.
WATER SENSORS
With hurricane season on many radars, being able to detect flooding is key. Additionally, many homes with basements may be prone to potential water leakage caused by aging foundations. The water sensor sits on the floor, either near an appliance or in the basement near the sump pump or hot water heater. If it senses water (and it takes no more than 1/8”), a notification process is set in motion. Here’s how it works:
The sensor placed on the floor is connected to a transmitter by a thin wire. This transmitter communicates with the control panel, which either beeps to let you know that something’s wrong or sends the message to the central monitoring station, if you’re not home. The central monitoring station contacts you the same way as if it were any other type of emergency, like intrusion or fire. Whatever preference you set up is the way they will get in touch with you: text, e-mail or call.
Adding environmental sensors to a wireless alarm system, such as the type provided by FrontPoint Security, is easy because there are no cables to connect or drill through walls. If you notice your basement is prone to dampness or flooding during the spring, consider installing a water sensor.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR MY HOME SECURITY BILL?
The environmental sensors themselves cost money, but the increased monitoring with FrontPoint Security doesn’t add a dime to your monthly bill. In some cases, having environmental sensors in place may actually lower your homeowner insurance rates (be sure to check with your individual home insurance company).
No longer does it take a natural disaster to demonstrate how valuable environmental sensors – like water sensors – can be. When sensors are triggered to send quick notifications to a professional monitoring center and to you, you’ll have a much better chance of protecting your home, your family and your belongings.