Expertise: Water Leak Detection System

Research by Travelers Insurance found that homes are 10 times more likely to be damaged by a water leak than by a fire. These leaks are no small issue, in fact the Environmental Protection Agency found that the average house leaks nearly 10,000 gallons per year. Without preventative measures these leaks can lead to stressful situations, resident displacement and costly renovations.

Greg Capizzi, founder of aquaHALT, faced the same issue after a water leak occurred at the condominium he manages which necessitated renovations of four apartments and cost the condominium $320,000 in damages. It inspired him to create and patent the aquaHALT, a leak detection system tucked discreetly behind the toilet bowl that stops water leaks by automatically cutting off the water at its source.

House & Home spoke with Capizzi about the importance of installing a leak detection system and how it could save homeowners both\ time and money.

What does AquaHALT provide to its customers?
aquaHALT is the first battery-operated, automatic shut-off valve for toilet bowls.When water is detected around the toilet bowl, the aquaHALT will close the water supply valve at the source without disrupting the rest of the home, building or fixtures in the unit. It provides a sense of assurance and it is a top-quality product. We provide a product that has everything you need and if water is detected on the floor, the source is turned off immediately. It is that simple. aquaHALT was designed to install it and forget about it.

How can installing a leak detection system save homeowners time and money?
We've had a lot of toilet leaks within the building we manage and typically with a water leak there's displacement. You have to leave the apartment because there are renovations happening with the contractor. Water damage can necessitate renovations including new flooring, sheetrock, and finishes as well as vital mold remediation to stave off harmful colonies that can be harmful in the air. This, plus the possibility of higher insurance rates can cause a nightmare for homeowners and renters alike. In fact, a lot of insurance carriers are now asking for some type of leak detection system. Being proactive really just eliminates the time, hassle and cost of losing that area within your apartment for weeks, possibly months, to renovations.

How does AquaHALT compare to other water detection systems?
There are different water-sensing devices out there, which all operate in their own function. There are water-sensing devices that are installed on the main water lines for your home that once activated turn off the entire house. Such devices are costly and sometimes come with a yearly subscription. Most are Wi-Fi based and communication could be an issue since Wi-Fi is not a stable source for detecting leaks. Water-sensing devices that are Wi-Fi based only send a notification. Once activated they send a signal to the main unit, in turn sending an alert. Therefore, these systems are sending you an alert, if Wi-Fi allows, while water is constantly flowing, creating more and more damage.

aquaHALT is a DIY water-sensing device since a plumber or electrician is not required. The device can be installed in such a way that it is barely seen upon approach. It has a hard-wired sensor to ensure a leak will be detected and stopped. It is non-invasive and is installed with 3M double-sided tape. Once the device is activated, it will beep until it is physically reset. The device comes with all that is needed—an extra stainless steel water line, wired sensor and batteries. Depending on the number of leaks detected, one set of batteries can last over two years.

aquaHALT by waterAUTOMATION
Sales@waterautomation.com
waterautomation.com

Published (and copyrighted) in House & Home, Volume 23, Issue 10 (August 2023).
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