Water Flow Leak Detectors and Shutoff Valves Damage to homes caused by burst piping is an expensive problem to fix. By the time a homeowner returns to discover the problem, hundreds of gallons may have flooded the home. Often the cost to fix the pipe isn't as much as the cost of repairs to the surrounding building materials and personal belongings. Automatic shutoff valves are available to prevent extensive water damage from plumbing failures. These valves use sensors to control water flow and avoid flooding caused by the domestic water supply. Details There are two types of systems. Whole house systems are designed to turn off the water near the service valve to completely stop the flow of water to every faucet and pipe in the home once a leak is detected. Other systems are designed to be used with a specific appliance, such as a washing machine, dishwasher, or ice machine. Each system uses a sensing device to determine the presence of a leak. These sensing devices can be an integral component, wired directly or wirelessly to communicate with the shutoff valve. One type of sensor is placed in an area where water from a leak might flow; for instance, on the floor beside the washing machine. Other sensing devices may measure the rate or duration of water flow, or detect the operation of the appliance to activate the valve. Installation Basic plumbing skills are required to install the system. Most systems have been designed to adapt to existing plumbing systems, and use electricity to supply power to the sensing units or to activate the valves. Benefits/Costs Systems start at about $75 plus installation, but some can be installed by anyone with basic plumbing skills and common tools. Limitations For accurate detection, systems that use remote moisture sensing units rely on placing the unit in a location most likely to flood if a water line breaks. Units that use flow amounts to detect a break must use a bypass function to prevent automatic shut-off if an activity, such as watering the lawn, uses a large amount of water. Code/Regulatory The International Residential Code section P2903.9.1 requires a service shutoff valve, although it does not specifically state what type of valve is required. Section P2903.9.3 allows for a shutoff valve at each plumbing fixture. Availability The valves may be purchased from a local plumbing supply distributor or, in some cases, directly from the manufacturer.
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