Flood Sensors – A Key Element in Protecting Against Water Damage

Flood sensors are devices that can protect your home or business from costly water leak consequences. Despite their small size, they play a crucial role in safety systems. How do these devices work, and why should you consider using them?

What is a Flood Sensor?

A flood sensor, also known as a moisture detector, monitors the presence of water in specific areas. It’s important to distinguish it from water level sensors, which are designed to measure liquid levels in tanks – for example, to control pumps in deep wells. A flood detector’s job is to quickly detect water on the floor or another monitored surface and alert the user to the threat.

How Do Moisture Detectors Work?

The operation of a flood sensor is based on electrodes that react upon contact with water. When the liquid closes the electrical circuit, an alarm is triggered. Depending on the model, the device can emit sound signals, visual alerts, or, as with smart sensors from Keemple, send notifications directly to a mobile app.

Types of Sensors and Their Applications

Flood sensors come in various models, allowing them to be tailored to individual needs:

• Sensors with electrodes on the device surface – easy to install and ideal for placement on floors.
• Sensors with probes – enable monitoring of hard-to-reach areas, such as inside pipes or behind appliances.

By functionality, we can distinguish:

• Standalone flood sensors – the simplest and most affordable option, which alerts about leaks with sound or light signals. However, their effectiveness is limited to situations when someone is present at home.
• Sensors integrated with smart home systems – these advanced models can send notifications to your phone, activate smart water valves, or work as part of an alarm system with a GSM module. This minimizes damage even when you are away.

These devices can be wired (commonly used in offices and public buildings) or wireless, battery-powered, making them convenient to use.

What Affects the Efficiency of a Flood Sensor?

To ensure sensors work without disruption, it’s important to avoid some key mistakes:

1. Improper location – Detectors should be installed not only in kitchens or bathrooms but also in areas such as boiler rooms, near water valves, attics, or even next to aquariums.
2. Incorrect operating temperature – According to the manufacturer’s recommendations, Keemple sensors operate optimally within a 0–40°C range.
3. Network issues – Smart sensors require reliable communication with the hub. The Z-Wave protocol, which we recommend, ensures resistance to interference and stable connections.
4. Depleted batteries – Regular battery replacement is necessary, but our sensors are equipped with power sources lasting approximately three years.

Want to Learn More?

Wondering if a flood sensor is right for your home? Contact our experts to learn more about Z-Wave technology and the advantages of smart detectors from Keemple.