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Smart Flood Sensors: How to Protect Your Home During the Rainy Season

Chris Wilson - Writer for Top10.com
A family looking at their smart hub to control the environment in their home.
Early water detection can help you avoid dealing with preventable water damage to your home during the rainy season.

Smart flood sensors alert you of potential water damage and quickly help you find the source of the issue. Fortunately, several home security systems offer these devices as part of their services.

With over 20+ years of experience in the industry, I've seen the integration of many smart technologies that can help you keep your property and family safe from environmental issues and faulty appliances.

» Maximize your safety with the synergy of home automation and security systems.

Our 5 Best Home Security Companies Who Offer Flood Sensors at a Glance:

  • ADT: Best flood sensor overall 
  • Vivint: Best for temperature monitoring
  • SimpliSafe: Best for different alert options
  • Cove: Best for surveying moisture levels
  • Frontpoint Security: Best for a comprehensive home security system

1. ADT

Early leak detection and easy installation anywhere! Visit Site

Cost - From $229.97

Money-back guarantee - 30 days

ADT's flood sensors are easy to install, with a simple waterproof USB plug and flexible mounting options. You can place them almost anywhere, including in your basement, laundry room, kitchen, or any other area that might be prone to floods.

You can also power them with batteries, making it easier to set them up in spaces where you don't have access to electrical outlets. Plus, these monitors are sensitive and can detect leaks early. This can help prevent significant damage and reduce repair costs.

Why we chose ADT:

  • Sends you instant alerts when it notices water
  • 24/7 monitoring
  • Doubles as a temperature sensor

Read Full ADT Review

2. Vivint

Advanced climate tracking with long-lasting, wire-free protection. Visit Site

Cost - Quote-based (From $599)

Money-back guarantee - N/A

Vivint's sensors include climate tracking and work within a range of -5° to 113°F (-20° to 45°C). They can alert you to sharp temperature drops, helping you take early action to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. This way, you can avoid expensive repairs while maintaining your home's stability.

Since this device is wireless, you can place it nearly anywhere. Its five-year battery life also means you won't need to worry about frequent replacements. Plus, the system notifies you if the battery is running low so that you can ensure consistent yearly monitoring.

Why we chose Vivint:

  • No activation fees
  • Professional installation
  • Optional protection plan that covers eligible Vivint equipment repairs

Read Full Vivint Review

3. SimpliSafe

Effortless flood monitoring with wireless, anywhere-placement sensors. Visit Site

Cost - From $219.97

Money-back guarantee - 60 days

SimpliSafe offers various smart home security packages, with the option to add flood sensors to any of them. These monitors are wireless and battery-operated. This means you can position them anywhere without worrying about damaging power cords.

There are also a variety of notification options available. The system emits an audible alarm, or you choose to receive push notifications through the SimpliSafe app. If you have a SimpliSafe monitoring plan, you may even get a call from the dispatch center if the sensor detects water.

Why we chose SimpliSafe:

  • One free month of 24/7 Fast Protect™ monitoring
  • Lithium 3V battery with 10-year life-span
  • Water-resistant housing

Read Full SimpliSafe Review

4. Cove

Safeguard your home, starting at $285 with a 60-day guarantee. Visit Site

Cost - From $285

Money-back guarantee - 60 days

Cove's home security systems feature lightweight (1oz) and battery-powered flood sensors. These monitors can detect a change in moisture levels before flooding occurs. They also trigger when temperatures fall below 41°F to warn you of potential pipe bursts.

Cove's flood sensors work seamlessly with its overall security system. This means easy setup, central monitoring through the Cove app, and the potential for automated actions like triggering shutoff valves (depending on compatibility).

Why we chose Cove:

  • IP67 waterproof rating
  • Lifetime warranty with plus plan
  • Around-the-clock support

Read Full Cove Review

5. Frontpoint Security

Comprehensive home safety with flood detection and intrusion alerts. Visit Site

Cost - From $1,351.83

Money-back guarantee - 30 days

Frontpoint Security's Ultimate Home Security System includes a flood sensor, door/window monitors, cameras, and a home defense kit. This comprehensive setup lets you monitor various aspects of your home's safety, from water damage to intrusions.

The flood sensor has a corrosion-proof design and a battery life of up to 10 years. It detects water through two metal prongs at its base. When these prongs come into contact with water, the system sends an alarm signal to the control panel. If you're not home, it'll notify you through your phone.

Why we chose Frontpoint Security:

  • Can float if the water level rises
  • Three-year warranty
  • Comes pre-programmed to sync with your Frontpoint Hub

Read Full Frontpoint Security Review

Our Methodology for Evaluating the Best Home Security Companies Who Offer Flood Sensors

We have a detailed method to review home security companies that offer flood sensors. This ensures our evaluations are trustworthy and thorough. Our team uses their expertise to assess each company. They test the products and read user reviews. They also seek expert advice and check the quality of customer service. This approach allows us to provide reviews that are both technical and user-friendly.

Evaluation Criteria:

  • Detection Capabilities: We focus on sensors that quickly notice water, temperature, or humidity changes.
  • Alert Options: We look at how the sensors alert you, including alarms and smartphone notifications.
  • Ease of Installation: We prefer sensors that are simple to install yourself or with little professional help.
  • Battery Life: We choose sensors with long battery lives to avoid frequent changes.
  • Compatibility: We make sure sensors work well with existing security systems.
  • Professional Monitoring: We check if companies provide constant monitoring services.
  • Brand Reputation: We study the company's history in security and customer care.
  • Customer Support: We check how easy it is to get help and information from the company.
  • Cost: We compare the prices of sensors and any extra monitoring fees.
  • Smart Home Integration: We seek systems that can connect with a variety of smart home devices.

Why Are Smart Flood Sensors Necessary?

Water damage severely threatens your home and can lead to substantial costs. According to a study, historical precipitation changes have contributed to one-third (36%) of US flood damages. Even a single inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage to critical infrastructure and communities.

Smart flood sensors can help safeguard your property during the rainy season by detecting water leaks early. With this advance notice, you'll be able to avoid the health risks of dampness and mold on top of costly repairs.  

These devices give you real-time notifications through app alerts, emails, text messages, and audible alarms. This allows you to act quickly and turn off water mains or notify local authorities if necessary.

» What's best for your home? Learn about wired vs. wireless security systems.

How Smart Flood Sensors Work

Detection Capabilities

The sensors can identify even small amounts of water using metal prongs or probes at the bottom. When leaks come in contact with these components, the sensor alerts the connected system.

Smart flood sensors also track changes in moisture and temperature, notifying you if the readings exceed a certain level.

Wireless Connectivity

These sensors seamlessly integrate with other smart devices and systems within your home. They can communicate with home security companies, like these ADT Alternatives, to ensure you receive timely notifications of potential issues.

Placement and Customization

To optimize protection, place the sensors near potential sources of leaks or flooding, such as water heaters, sump pumps, and appliances. Many smart flood devices offer customizable settings, allowing you to adjust sensitivity levels and set thresholds for humidity and temperature alerts.

What to Consider Before You Buy a Flood Sensor

  1. Water detection technology: Look for a sensor that can detect even the smallest amount of water before it becomes problematic.
  2. Source identification: To address the issue effectively, choose a sensor that can differentiate between leaks, broken pipes, backed-up sewage, or external water intrusion.
  3. Smart home integration: Opt for a sensor with optimum wireless connectivity that integrates seamlessly with your smart home hub and allows for flexible placement.
  4. Real-time notifications: Ensure the device offers timely alerts to help you stay on top of any issues before they escalate into costly problems.
  5. User-friendly installation and operation: Select a sensor that is easy to set up and use without requiring technical expertise, eliminating the need for additional fees during the rainy season.

Choose the Right Flood Sensor for You

Integrating flood sensors into your smart home security system is a wise choice to protect your home, even when you're on vacation. Apart from giving you peace of mind, you might even be able to lower your insurance premiums.

When choosing a flood sensor, consider your specific needs while ensuring the essentials are covered. Opt for a device that notifies you about any water presence in real-time, so that you can address the issue before it escalates into a major problem.

» Check out the complete guide to home security costs.

Chris Wilson - Writer for Top10.com
Chris Wilson contributes to Top10.com as a CSPM with over 23 years of experience in the North American security market. His expertise includes system design, project management, and solutions engineering. Chris has written for SDM and Locksmith Ledger and co-published various blogs within the security industry.