Automatic Water Shut Off Valves (Do You Need One?)

Unfortunately, a pipe will almost certainly burst or leak when you least expect it. These plumbing emergencies frequently occur when the homeowner is away, leaving them with a soggy mess, a sizable amount of cleanup, and water damage to deal with. You can avoid this hassle by installing an automatic water shut-off valve. If a plumbing emergency occurs, you’ll be glad you made this upgrade.

What is an Automatic Water Shut Off Valve?

Every house contains a shut-off valve that allows you to turn off the water to the entire structure in the event of a plumbing emergency or to do so while having plumbing work done. They’re helpful for seasonal houses as well. This is because it’s a good idea to turn off the water to your house if you’re not going to be there for a while.

water shut off valve - how to winterize outdoor faucets
Here is what a shut-off valve can look like inside your home. It’s important to know where yours is located in your home in case of an emergency.

Where the water enters the house, whether from a well or your municipal water supply, is typically where you may find a water shut-off valve.

This safety element is enhanced with an automated water shut-off valve. This turns the water off when it notices a change in water pressure. An automatic shut-off valve will take care of it regardless of whether anybody is there to close the valve.

How Does It Work?

Automatic shut-off valves and water leak detectors cooperate by keeping an eye on your plumbing system and the water pressure in your pipes. Three different kinds of water leak detectors can spot issues in different ways:

  • Flood Sensor: You place this sensor on the ground in a utility room or another area that frequently floods. The sensor shuts off the water supply to the house when it comes into touch with water.
  • Flow Meter: A meter like this constantly keeps an eye on the water flow rate in a pipe. The device senses a problem if the water pressure varies significantly and turns off the water supply to your home.
  • Acoustic Sensor: Installed along the water supply pipes and keep an ear out for the sound of even the smallest water leaks. You usually only use these sensors in industrial applications.

Many flow meters and flood sensors also have an alarm that sounds within the home to warn occupants. These tools can stop the water from flowing before a leak can cause flooding. Even though they can’t stop a broken pipe or leak, these can reduce the potential damages to a minimum as a result.

water damage on floor in home - flood sensor would catch this
A flood sensor can save you from a situation like this one. You’ll be able to catch the leak happening sooner rather than later.

Do You Need an Automatic Water Shut Off Valve?

Some homeowners are fortunate enough to be at home when a leak first appears, allowing them to turn off the water. Many of these plumbing accidents arise in the middle of the night when inhabitants are asleep or away.

It can be reassuring to know that you have a system in place to immediately switch off the water. This can stop catastrophic damage from happening in the event of a leak.

Water leak detectors and automatic shut-off valves can give you peace of mind knowing your home is safe. This can save you a lot of trouble, money, and mess.

main shut off valve - typically for a home
Not sure what a typically shut off valve looks like? A lot of the time, they can look like this.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, automatic water shut off valves can be such an advantage to your home. These automatic valves can save you from a ton of water damage in your home. Whether you’re away for the week or sleeping and are unable to catch it, automatic valves will save you!

Call 1-Tom-Plumber

Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need any plumbing help with the shut off valves in your home. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. 

We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.

Similar Posts