Whether from a burst pipe, a broken appliance, or a leaky roof, you can’t always predict water damage. Fortunately, you can sometimes prevent it. Automatic water shut-off valves keep leaks to a minimum, preventing widespread damage and expensive restoration bills. With Paul Davis Restoration of North Dallas, find out more about how this technology can save both your home and your wallet.
The Risks of Water Damage
Most homeowners associate
water damage with storm season and flooding. Even if you don’t live in a flood zone, however, your home may not be immune. Water damage can occur at any time due to a burst pipe or faulty appliance.
Even minor causes of water damage can be devastating. In many cases, the earliest leaks occur inside walls and crawl spaces. By the time you notice any issue, the damage may already be widespread. Lingering moisture also leaves your home vulnerable to
mold. Prolonged mold growth leads to health concerns and further structural damage and repairs can be
costly.
While all homes come with a manual shut-off valve, this measure is not always effective. If the leak is hidden behind a wall or underneath the floor, or if you are traveling, you may not think to use the valve before the damage is done.
How Do Water Shut-Off Valves Work?
Automatic shut-off valves are invaluable tools to prevent water damage. They work by monitoring your home’s water system for signs of a leak. If any problem is detected, the valve cuts off your home’s water supply. By eliminating water flow, the shut-off valve eliminates the leak until it can be repaired. This provides a variety of benefits:
- Prevent extensive water damage
- Reduce the cost of cleanup and repairs
- Protect expensive appliances against overflow
- Improve your peace of mind
In addition, many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with automatic shut-off valves installed. You may be able to reduce your premiums, saving money before a leak ever occurs.
Types of Shut-Off System
There are two types of
residential water shut-off systems, categorized by the detection system used:
Moisture Sensor Systems
Older shut-off systems work by detecting water on the floor. They utilize a network of moisture pucks placed in locations prone to flooding, such as crawl spaces or utility rooms. If a moisture puck encounters water, it sends a signal that alerts your household and shuts off water. It can take over 10 pucks to fully protect a home against flooding, and installation can be complex. If a leak occurs, however, the system makes it easy to locate and repair.
Flow Detection Systems
The newest form of shut-off system utilizes a flow detector. This type monitors water flow within your pipes. If it detects unbroken flow for an extended amount of time, it shuts down the entire system. This allows it to identify non-damaging leaks, such as a faulty faucet or toilet, helping you save may help you save on water bills as well as repairs. They are also relatively easy and inexpensive to install. Advanced systems are available that can send text alerts directly to your phone.
Fix Water Damage Today
Even with an automatic water shut-off valve, of course, there is still a risk of flooding. When this happens, Paul Davis Restoration of North Dallas can help. We provide
emergency water damage repair, flood repair, and mold remediation to homeowners throughout the North Dallas area. Our fast response time and advanced technology can quickly return your home to its pre-loss state.
Contact us today to learn more about our service or to request a detailed estimate on repairs for your home.
