Best Water Detectors In 2022

This is our top pick for home water detectors. The Glentronics Inc. Watchdog does exactly what is required of it, without the need to download apps or mess about with technology. Although the recommended 9V alkaline batteries aren’t included, the price of both is still incredibly reasonable and the product does its job, sounding (an extremely loud) alarm, notifying you that there’s moisture or risk of a leak in your home. If you’re not around, a passer-by or neighbor will find it impossible not to hear the alarm and can help regardless of your location. Because this alarm doesn’t rely on Wi-Fi or remote technology, you can be confident that if you’re stuck in a storm or power outage, that you’ll be made well aware of any leaks. This is a great all-rounder and perfects if you need something to start working for you straight away, without any fuss or bother. The 6 foot sensor wire is perfect for those areas where water might escape at different points, so has an advantage over spot detectors, which don’t always react when leaks happen further away. As there’s no installation required, such as hooking it up to the Wi-Fi or downloading a complicated app to your phone, you can feel confident in your ability to set it up. The brand suggests that you should consider one of these devices per every room in your home and, with that affordable price tag, we can’t really argue against that. Make sure you also check our guide to the best smoke detectors.

This is a handy little device, particularly if you like your technology and feel confident setting things up. The price point is reasonable, especially as batteries are included, and it not only detects a water leak but also changes in temperature, whether that’s freezing or hot. The device is sleek and well designed, as well as having a magnetic strip in order to attach where necessary. It’s perfect if you already have a SmartThings hub and like all your technology to match. We wouldn’t recommend, however, if you’re a bit of a technophobe, as the setup and app can be overwhelming. The Samsung GP-U999SJVLCAA SmartThings range includes the Hub, Multipurpose Sensor (for open windows and doors), Motion Sensor, Outlet (for controlling lights), and the Button. If you’re gizmo mad and want to have a matching collection, then we would definitely recommend going for this product and having the whole range in your home. This gives you control over everything you might need and peace of mind that your property is safe from burglars and flooding. The water leak sensor is one of Samsung’s cheaper products in the range, but no less impressive and works in sync (not a leaking ‘sink’) with the rest of the Hub. 

Another Samsung water detector on our list! This is the older version of the above detector but still comes with its own benefits and functions. This moisture alarm utilizes technology again to inform you of any risk to your home or business, through the SmartThings app and Hub. Although a little more pricey than its newer counterpart, the water sensor alarm is larger and may make some people feel more confident that they won’t lose it or forget where they’ve placed it (believe us, it’s possible). This SmartThings Water Detector comes with fewer sensors than the newer version, which might not give you as much peace of mind when implementing it in your home. Again, this sensor cannot work without the SmartThings Hub, but this might mean that you decide to sensor-proof your entire home, utilizing the whole range of products that Samsung has to offer. Our handy guide to the best smart thermostats features more great products like this.

Although larger than most and certainly not as pretty, the Simple Plug & Play by Wasserstein is an easy solution to getting something up and ready in no time. The water alarm wifi operating system allows you to receive those all-important notifications to your phone. The product is durable and definitely fit for purpose, with gold-plated probes to pick up on any warning signs. It’s fancy and functional, what more could you want? As well as this, there’s no need for additional purchases, such as an expensive hub or main control system – it simply works from your Wi-Fi connection. This means you’re free from any additional charges, such as an app; they also throw in the batteries free of charge as well. Because the sensor is petite, this means that it can fit into areas that more bulky devices can’t. This means it can detect quickly and efficiently, fitting under any kitchen or bathroom appliances. Simple Plug & Play has also been created to optimize its energy resources so that you don’t need to worry about those batteries failing on you. Sound the alarm, we’re sold.

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The Honeywell Water Defense is the perfect accompaniment to any home; it’s simple and refreshing and takes barely any time to get set up. The long water sensing cable can be positioned anywhere, which means it doesn’t just cover one spot – perfect for those of you who are concerned about all areas of your home or business. The only notable downside to this smart home device is that the alarm isn’t as loud as others, which is a concern if you plan on installing it in your basement. This aside, the product does exactly what it needs to when it should. With a 4-foot sensor wire, the device can’t cover as much expanse as other products on the market, but it is small and easy to affix to walls, so you keep it hidden and out of sight. This detector is particularly efficient when used near washing machines, refrigerators, boilers, and under sinks. Although the 80-decibel alarm isn’t the most aggressive on this list, it does its job, especially as this device is more suited to appliances, rather than entire rooms. Mounting tape is also included with the product, so you can simply attach and go.

Although expensive, you can’t put a price on good leak technology and this certainly is that. Similar to other detectors, Lyric Wi-Fi Water Leak & Freeze Detector can also sense a change in temperature, whether that’s hot or cold. Both humidity and freezing weather conditions can cause water problems in your home (such as mold), so this is a really clever feature. The only downside to this product is the inability to connect or integrate with any other home security system, but with such a great product, this might not be important. The device works by being placed under or near appliances and connects to your Wi-Fi. One of the benefits of the Lyric is that it doesn’t need another system or hub to link up to, which means less expenditure. With a 4-foot sensor cable, LED flashing lights warning system, and 100-decibel alarm, the detector certainly does the job. If that 4-foot cable isn’t long enough (and size really does matter when it comes to leak detection), then you can purchase add-ons – a 500 foot add on to be precise. This sensor can be set up completely by the user, without much need to contact customer support, which is always an added bonus.

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This is one of our cheapest choices, but that certainly doesn’t take away from its performance. Setup is easy and straightforward, so no time is wasted in ensuring your home is safe and dry. Simply put in the batteries (which are also included for the amazing price), screw in the detector probe, and place it where you require. You can also attach a detector cable too if you need to cover more square feet. This comes at just under 4-foot, so certainly not the longest cable on the market, but beneficial that you’re given the option to use one. Although lightweight, the Govee is a little on the bulky side, but for the price, its appearance can definitely be overlooked. The Govee uses sensor probes and cables to detect when there has been a leak and the extremely loud alarm will notify you of that. Be warned, the 120 decibels are enough to make anyone spring a leak. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best smart plugs.

Slightly on the pricey side, the D-Link Wi-Fi Water Leak Sensor and Alarm is pretty much an all-rounder. It has a long sensor cable (almost 6-foot), so you’re not limited to one area; it’s got a loud, attention-grabbing alarm (90 decibels); and you can easily use it through your own Wi-Fi, without the need for an additional hub. This product is straight forward and although doesn’t ‘wow’ with any exciting features or gadgets, it certainly does the job and can help prevent any expensive damage. Again, this device is much more suited to being placed under or near appliances, such as the refrigerator, but with its longer sensor cable, you can get away with using it around the whole room, especially if you’re not thinking about buying more than one.