The top 3 recommendations and buying guides

Our recommendations

The Home Control water alarm from devolo impresses on the one hand with its large scope of delivery and functions and on the other hand with the high quality of the functions themselves. It is designed as a smart home system and has all the necessary components. The required lithium-ion battery is also included. In addition to the app notification, the advantages include the immense volume and the integrated battery, the ensures that the system can still be operated for up to 24 hours in the event of a sudden power failure remain. The reviewers at Amazon define the Water sensor as "really reliable" and "easy to install".

In terms of the basic principle, the Homematic IP water alarm is structured in exactly the same way as our comparison winner, which we determined based on customer reviews on Amazon in particular. However, the smart home system is operated with conventional alkaline batteries, which are also part of the scope of delivery. As far as the volume is concerned, the device is in the lower, but still tolerable range. The users describe the wireless water sensor as an "excellent system" and "ideal for getting started with the smart home". Incidentally, the system can also be expanded like that from devolo - with compatible devices of the same brand.

The ABUS water alarm is our price-performance winner. We don't need to say much about the brand - it is one of the global market leaders in the security industry. It is all the more impressive that the manufacturer offers this high-quality water sensor so cheaply. The model also impresses with its versatility: you can use it wirelessly or wired (cable length 1.5 meters). The integrated block battery should last up to three years. The water alarm seems to work perfectly and to be "nice" loud. The only point of criticism: there is no power switch, so you have to remove the battery to silence the device.

Purchase criteria

Type

There are two types of water sensors: cordless and corded. Both variants have their specific advantages and disadvantages. The effortless and compact installation speaks in favor of a wireless water detector, but it can with a water level of several centimeters can be damaged and is more uncomfortable in terms of operation regards. A wired water sensor does not mind the water and it can be operated without inconvenient bending, but the assembly is a little more complex.

Contact points

In the case of wireless versions, the contact points are located directly on the device, whereas in the case of wired models, on the other hand, at the end of the cable. This end piece must be placed on the floor and fixed there - at the point where the water would first escape in the event of a leak. Important: Make sure that the cable length is sufficient for wired water sensors.

Assembly

You simply place wireless water sensors under the leak-prone device on the floor. You can fix the water sensor with an adhesive tape so that it cannot slip away. If you opt for a wired model, the effort is a little higher because it needs to be mounted on the wall - depending on the product with screws and dowels, adhesive pads or suction cups. Don't forget to attach the end piece to the floor as well.

Battery

Most of the water alarms are operated with standard AA or AAA batteries, which are usually already included in the scope of delivery. However, there are also water sensors with high-quality lithium-ion batteries that last up to ten years and thus minimize maintenance for you. The water alarms rarely have a plug for the socket. Such models are particularly inexpensive, but also more expensive and rely on an existing socket close to the "danger zone".

Smart home

There are now numerous water alarms that are compatible with WiFi or Bluetooth. These devices have a decisive advantage: They enable you to be informed about a water leak even if you are at the other end of the world. In this case, you will receive the notification of the (impending) flooding directly on your smartphone. We advise you to use a water detector with WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity Smart home system to prefer.

Release speed

Make sure that your selected water detector triggers the alarm as soon as the sensors come into contact with the dangerous water. Some models take up to a minute to respond - a long time in which a lot of water can have accumulated. Do not rely solely on the manufacturer's information, but also read reviews from other customers. And: Do the test yourself as soon as you have your water sensor.

Signal volume

What should always be avoided with other household and garden helpers is one of the most important points here: Make sure that the signal that is on the the leak or the water leakage is very loud so that you can still hear it if you are in a more distant room stop. It should be over 75 decibels. A little tip: wear hearing protection during the test.

frequently asked Questions

What is a water sensor?

A water sensor, also known as a water alarm, is a practical and compact device that you can use Warn of leaking water as a result of a burst pipe or other leakage in the water pipes target. The sounding signal enables you to react quickly and prevent extremely serious water damage.

How does a water alarm work?

A water sensor is usually battery operated. Depending on the model, it is either placed on the floor under the endangered device or mounted on the wall. The water detector has several electrical contacts that constantly try to establish a power connection - which only succeeds when water enters between the contacts. Then the detector triggers a shrill alarm.

Where should I use water sensors?

Floods usually spread unnoticed, as they usually take place in places that are not always in view. This is primarily the laundry room - by the washing machine, on Domestic waterworks or with other pumps. However, you often only notice (too) late that water leaks under the kitchen unit.

Which brands offer good water alarms?

The best-known brands for high-quality water sensors include ABUS, Grohe and devolo. You can also get good models from Homematic IP and Honeywell Home. If you would like to start with very affordable water alarms, take a look at the versions from mumbi, Sebson and Generic.

Where is the best place to buy a water sensor?

Water sensors are usually available in well-stocked hardware stores such as OBI, toom, Bauhaus, Hagebaumarkt, Hornbach or Raiffeisen. With a bit of luck, you might also find something in the household department of a large supermarket. To be on the safe side, it is best to take a look at Amazon in advance. There you also have the most diverse selection.

How much does a water alarm cost?

Basically, a water alarm is always many times cheaper than the price you would have to pay in the event of an unnoticed water leak. The trade already has very inexpensive models from well-known brands from around ten euros. Highly functional water sensors with WiFi connectivity cost more, but generally not more than 80 euros.