Many the homes in Grand Lake County and surrounding mountain communities are occupied for only part of the year, and are often left vacant for a month or longer. During periods where a home is unoccupied there is always a risk of a plumbing or heating system malfunction. If left unchecked a leaking water heater, frozen pipe or malfuntioning heating system can cause significant damage.
With smart sensors becoming less expensive and more easy to connect, there are now ways you can receive early warning before plumbing and heating problems occur, so you can take action to head off a disaster. Smart sensors are small devices that can be easily installed around the home. Sensors can work independently, or as part of a network of devices connected by a smart home hub like Apple HomeKit or SmartThings. When a problem is detected the sensor and network device send notifications to your smartphone. Most sensors also work with smart speakers like the Amazon Echo or Google Nest Hub.
Here are a three smart home sensors that can detect potential problems in your home.
1. Water Sensors
Many water leaks start small an often go undetected for weeks or months. Over time a water leak can cause major damage, including rot, mold and mildew. Water sensors can be placed near any potential source of water leaks, including under water heaters, dishwashers, hot water heaters, washing machines, and more.
2. Freeze Sensors
In Colorado, frozen pipes are one of the biggest causes of water damage. A frozen pipe can expand and burst, creating a fountain of gushing water inside a home. Like leak sensors, freeze sensors are smart devices that continually monitor the temperature of the water line. If the temperature drops to dangerously low levels, it send you an alert so you can take action to avert a disaster. Some home security systems such as the Ring Alarm can be purchased with optional freeze sensors.
For more advanced protection from water leaks and frozen pipes, consider a water flow detector with a shut-off valve. When sensor detect a drop in water pressure, either from a leak or a frozen pipe, a signal is sent to an automatic shut-off valve to close the main water line. Water flow is stopped to the entire home, reducing the risk of extensive water damage.
3. Smart Smoke Alarms
Traditional smoke and carbon monoxide alarms work well , except for one problem, you need to be nearby to hear the alarm go off. A smart smoke alarm solves this problem by alerting you of problems when you’re away, giving you critical time to call the fire department and alert neighbors to ensure quick action is taken.
