What is a water leak detection system, and can it catch roof leaks?
Short answer. A water leak detection system uses sensors, and sometimes an automatic shutoff valve on the main water line, to alert you to water where it should not be. Most are designed for plumbing and appliance leaks, but a sensor placed in the attic under an air handler, a skylight or a chimney can give early warning of a roof or condensate leak before it reaches the ceiling.
The main types
- Spot sensors: small battery devices that sound an alarm or send a phone alert when their contacts get wet. Placed under sinks, water heaters, washing machines and air handlers.
- Smart shutoff valves: installed on the main line by a plumber; they close automatically when a sensor trips or when flow looks abnormal.
- Flow monitors: watch water use through the main line and flag continuous flow, which catches hidden pipe leaks but not roof leaks, since rain never passes through your meter.
Using sensors to catch roof leaks
- Under the attic air handler: many Georgia homes have the air conditioner in the attic, and a clogged condensate line can flood the drain pan and the ceiling below. A sensor in the pan is cheap insurance.
- Below skylights and chimneys: place a sensor on the attic floor or ceiling joists at the low side of these common leak points.
- Along known trouble spots: under a valley or wall joint that has leaked before.
Sensors only detect water that reaches them, so they complement, rather than replace, a look in the attic after heavy storms.
Cost and insurance
Simple battery sensors are inexpensive, while whole-home shutoff systems cost more and require professional installation. Some insurers offer discounts for monitored leak detection, so ask yours.
When an alert goes off
Shut off water if it is plumbing, catch the water if it is the roof, and photograph everything. Then find the source; see common roof leak causes and the Georgia roof maintenance checklist.