Water blocking system. Review and comparison of water leakage protection systems. Review of modern flood protection systems

Rarely an apartment owner does not know how much misfortune comes from flooding an apartment due to an open tap in the kitchen or bathroom, as well as water leaks in the water supply and heating systems. A flood in an apartment entails colossal material losses and unpleasant disputes with neighbors living on the floor below. Apartment walls flooded with water can cause failure hidden electrical wiring and defeats electric shock. The developed and implemented mass production of flood protection kits will allow you to avoid and forget all the problems associated with this. Next, we will look at how protection against water leaks in an apartment works, and also provide an overview and comparison of the systems that are most popular today.

Operating principle and components

The protection system kit consists of the following elements:

1. Control block.
2. Water leakage sensors.
3. Taps for automatically shutting off the water supply in the water supply and heating system of the apartment.

It is not difficult to understand how protection works. Sensors are installed in places where most likely Leaks may occur. As a rule, they are installed under bathtubs and washbasins, washing machines and water heating devices, as shown in the diagram below:

When they come into contact with water, a signal is removed from them and sent to the control module (controller), which performs the functions of a dispatcher. Having received a signal about the presence of water in the controlled area of ​​the leakage protection system, the controller sends a command to the electric drive of the ball valve or to the electromagnetic quick-closing valve, which emergency shut off the water in the water supply or heating system of the apartment.

Review of modern flood protection systems

The possibility of equipping an apartment with protection from flooding is not a prospect for the distant future. This is one of the real steps that you can take today towards introducing it into your home. high technology"smart home" systems. Nowadays, several complexes that protect apartments from leaks occupy a dominant position on the market. Ready-made kits of the following types are in well-deserved demand:

• "Neptune"
• "Gidrolok"
• "Stop the Rainbow Flood"

Often, the average consumer, faced with the choice of protection, finds himself in a difficult situation and simply does not know which one is best suited to ensure the safety of his apartment from leaks and prevent flooding. The analysis of the operating technical capabilities and characteristics of the listed devices will allow us to compare their advantages and disadvantages, on the basis of which a choice can be made required device protection.

Neptune

A product of Russian development, which was the first to appear on the Russian market back in 2000. The Neptune brand, according to the Moscow Business Times, is the most popular water leakage control system in Russian market. The company's product range includes a solution for any budget - from an affordable kit costing less than 10,000 rubles to an ultra-modern one with control on a smartphone. Protection against water leaks Neptune can be installed not only on water supply pipes, but also on heating and heated towel rails, which also pose a risk of water leaks.

The product line includes ready-made apartment kits, as well as individual components, which will allow you to assemble a kit specifically for your needs. In addition, Neptune leakage sensors work not only on wires, but also via a radio channel, which allows you to install protection against water leaks at sites with completed renovations, where it is no longer possible to hide the wires.

The warranty for Neptune water leakage control systems is up to 6 years for all elements of the system.

It is worth noting that protection against water leaks Neptune is already long years is equipped with world-famous Bugatti ball valves, which are made in Italy. The peculiarity of these faucets, in addition to a strong brand in the world of plumbing, premium sealing materials, and electric motor power, is that the electric drive has manual emergency control, that is, the faucet can be opened/closed without electricity.

To choose a suitable Neptune leak protection kit, you need to consider three main points:

1. Have repairs been completed at your site? If the repair is just beginning, then you can choose any Neptune kit, since all control modules support wired sensors. At the stage of renovation of a room, they are usually used, since it is cheaper than wireless sensors and there is no need to change batteries from time to time. If the repair has already been completed and it is impossible to hide the wires from the sensors, then only kits that support radio sensors are suitable - these are Neptun Bugatti ProW+ and Neptun Bugatti ProW+ WiFi
2. Diameter of water supply, heating or water heated towel rail pipes. Ready-made Neptune kits are equipped with ball valves of a certain diameter. For example, the most common size of faucets for an apartment is ½ inch. Check this with your facility or your specialist.
3. The budget allocated for the purchase of the Neptune water leakage control system. The set of options that the consumer will receive depends on the budget.

Neptune Aquacontrol- the most affordable leakage protection system, since the cost is less than 10,000 rubles per set for an apartment (control module, two taps and two sensors). This kit is equipped with the Neptun Base module - this is a very simple and reliable control module that will shut off the water in case of leakage and once a month will automatically turn the taps against souring.

Neptune Bugatti Base– this is excellent value for money. As in the previous kit, a simple Base module is used, however Ball Valves already made in Italy by Bugatti with a large margin of safety. The Neptun Base module does not have backup power - if this feature is important to you, then pay attention to the ProW series modules.

Neptune Bugatti ProW is a kit with advanced functionality that works on wired sensors. Additional features of the ProW module:

• Protection of taps from souring (automatic rotation of the tap 2 times a month).
• Power supply voltage on taps –12 VDC
• Built-in backup power supply.
• Addressability – the ability to indicate leaks along 4 lines.
• Possibility of connecting warning systems, security systems and integration with a “smart home” (presence of a low-current relay).
• Indication of the state of the ball valve (open/closed).
• Indication of backup power status.
• Possibility of opening and closing the ball valve manually (button on the module).

Neptune Bugatti ProW+ similar to the ProW module, but has the ability to work not only with wired, but also with radio sensors - this is an ideal choice for those who have already completed home renovations.

Neptune Bugatti ProW+ WiFi– this is the most modern and functional interesting control module. Here's what he can do:

• Control of the security system via smartphone. To do this, just install free application and synchronize your mobile phone.
• Timely notification of an accident. In addition to the fact that the module emits a sound and light alert on the front panel, additional information about the occurrence of a leak appears on the screen of your mobile phone. A very important function, especially if no one is at home at that time.
• Monitoring hot and cold flow readings cold water. Now it is not at all necessary to manually take readings every month by opening the cabinet with meters, which is located in the bathroom or kitchen. Just open it mobile app and view the readings in it. This is a very convenient feature for those who rent out an apartment.
• Backup power supply for the protection system. Even if the power supply to your apartment or house is turned off for a long time (up to 36 hours), the Neptun ProW+Wi-Fi module will work. The developers have included batteries in the design, which will serve as a source of backup power. By the way, the application will notify you in advance about the need to replace these batteries.
• Indication of the position of ball valves. You can not only monitor the taps remotely, but also, if desired, automatically control them (close and open). If, while on vacation, you forgot to play it safe and turn off the water, you can always do this through the app.
• Function of automatic turning of taps. It is a self-cleaning mode for ball valves that prevents “souring” of shut-off valves. Automatic rotation is carried out every 15 days.
• The Neptun ProW+Wi-Fi control module can be connected to the Smart Home system and burglar alarm residential building. A special exit is provided for this.

The table below shows a comparison of the Neptune models.

How flood protection works using the Neptune kit as an example is shown in the video:

Summary:

1. Over the years, the Neptune system has earned customer recognition, as evidenced by sales data - it is the most popular protection against water leaks in Russia (source: Moscow Business Times).
2. Each buyer can choose their own system based on budget and options. The most affordable kit costs less than 10,000 rubles.
3. The Neptune system is equipped with Italian Bugatti cranes.
4. There is a very interesting solution Neptun ProW+ WiFi with control on a smartphone.

In preparation of this material Our readers were kindly given a 15% discount on the entire range of the Neptune store. Website: systemneptune.rf. Promo code: saelectric.

Hydroloсk

Products Russian company"Hydroresource". If we compare it with the Neptune device, it can be noted that the principle of its operation is the same; the package includes water sensors, a controller and electric ball valves. The company has developed and put into production several models of leakage protection systems, basic option which are served by “Gidroloсk Standart”.

Additional options for Hydrolock water leakage protection models:

Gidrolock is equipped with three sensors; the technical capabilities of this water leakage protection device provide for the connection of 20 wired and up to 100 wireless sensors. Emergency water stop time up to 30 seconds. The manufacturer guarantees 10 thousand operating cycles and a general guarantee of the performance of the protection complex for 3 years.

An overview of the Hydrolock kit is demonstrated in the video:

Russian development from the Supersystem company. The operating principle and equipment are the same as the two previous analogs. Thanks to the introduction of cranes into the design innovative materials the effort to overcome friction is significantly reduced; emergency closure of taps when a leak is detected in an apartment occurs in 3 seconds with minimum cost electricity.

Compared to other systems, Aquawatch operates at an operating voltage of only 5 Volts. The degree of automation of the control system does not require human intervention. It is equipped with four sensors, both wired and wireless options are possible. Manufacturer's warranty 4 years.

Review of the Aqua Watch kit:

Stop the flood "RaDuga"

A characteristic feature of this protection system is that all sensors are wireless and operate in the mode of sending radio signals, the power of which allows them to remain operational at a distance of 20 meters from the controller in an apartment building. The product kit includes 1 solenoid valve, 4 sensors. The control unit is designed to connect 9 sensors.

Compared to protection systems, Aquastop is just a mechanical device developed by Russian and Italian specialists. Prevents the room from flooding with water in the event of a rupture in the filling hose of the washing machine. Installed in front of the hose using threaded connection, as shown in the diagram below:

If the hose leaks and the pressure in the system drops, Aquastop will shut off the water in a matter of seconds, which will stop further leakage. The operating principle of the aquastop is demonstrated in the video:

Cost comparison of kits

Finally, we present to your attention a comparison of the cost of the provided apartment flood protection systems:

This concludes our review. We hope you now understand how protection against water leaks in an apartment works and what systems are popular today. Price comparisons and video reviews give a clear understanding of which kit is best to choose to protect your home from flooding!

Modern houses are equipped with a large number of plumbing fixtures and household appliances, the functioning of which is associated with the consumption of water. Undoubtedly, toilets, showers, washing and dishwashers, heating systems and even a refrigerator with an ice maker are very convenient and useful household items that make life easier modern man. But sometimes these benefits of civilization leak, and an unexpected flood causes major troubles. A special protection system will help prevent the occurrence of leaks and, accordingly, avoid unexpected costs for eliminating their consequences. You just have to choose and install it correctly.

“Three pillars” of the protection system – how does it work?

It is not difficult to understand the operating principle of such equipment. Any leakage protection system is based on three mandatory elements. The first is sensors that are installed under the bathroom, behind washing machines, dishwashers, in shower stalls, near heating radiators, and in other places where there is a danger of leaks, but it is almost impossible to notice them immediately. The second component of the protection is the control unit, which performs the function of an electronic dispatcher. As soon as water in the system begins to leak, the sensor will work, and the signal received by the controller is transmitted to the third structural element - the locking mechanism. Depending on the chosen protection and installation location, standard electric ball valves or solenoid valves can be used as an emergency shut-off.

While the operating principle of all protection systems and structures is the same, there are other parameters with additional features functioning, degree of convenience, practicality and, of course, safety of use. You should also take into account the complete set required for each specific case, and the possibility of using additional equipment.

By studying the technical characteristics of the most popular protection models, we will try to identify positive sides their operation and warn about possible difficulties. Thus, by considering products from several aspects, it will be easier to choose the right device to protect against leaks in the water supply network.

Recognized reliability

Gidrolock protection is produced by Gidroresurs, a leader in the production of equipment that ensures the safe operation of utility water supply networks of any complexity. This guarantees high product quality, long service life and the following advantages:

• Practicality. Included electric ball drives different sizes and sensors are easily complemented with the necessary equipment up to required quantity. So, to standard device you can connect up to 20 additional sensors and 20 electric ball valves, and also increase the length of the cable to 3 meters and 100 meters. The system supports the installation of hundreds of radio sensors and the operation of a modern GSM alarm system, which immediately notifies the owner of a leak.

• Safety and guarantees. The installation operates on an autonomous battery, from which a voltage of 12 volts is supplied to the electric ball drive. This battery is periodically recharged by passing weak current, so it lasts for a long period of operation without replacement or reinstallation. In addition, the products are sold through official dealers and are provided with a 3-year warranty, during which the device as a whole or its individual elements can be replaced or repaired in the absence of mechanical damage.

• Speed ​​of response. The speed of response of the protection system is somewhat disappointing. Once a leak is detected, the taps will be closed only after 30 seconds.

• Functionality. The device's overlap elements are made of stainless alloy, which allows them to withstand pressures of up to 64 atmospheres. Polyurethane seals are characterized by strength and great durability. The high temperature resistance of the materials allows them to withstand heating up to 220 degrees Celsius. Thus, the locking mechanisms of the system do not deteriorate and practically do not wear out even after 10,000 closings and openings.

High-quality protection against water leaks in an apartment should also take into account operational features, because any water supply networks inevitably face the problem of lime deposits, as a result of which the working units of the equipment become sour. This design provides for automatic operation of locking mechanisms, and once every two weeks the taps are turned 5 degrees, thus preventing the accumulation of deposits.

Domestic production - time-tested

The domestic company "Special Systems and Technologies" has been developing and producing protective systems. Their models differ slightly in technical specifications, so it’s worth noting the most important ones.

The Neptune system controller is programmed to self-clean the system

Thus, the Neptune Basic installation is connected to a voltage of 220 volts, which is unsafe in the event of an accident or failure to comply with installation rules. From this point of view, operating the Neptun power system with a voltage of 12 volts is much safer. The manufacturer also provides for stable operation of the installation. In addition to the autonomous element, the models also have an uninterruptible source, which ensures that the protection operates even when the electricity is turned off. The system has additional advantages:

• Speed ​​of response. The advantages of the system in this matter are obvious: turning off the tap will take no more than 21 seconds, which will undoubtedly save not only from water standing nearby interior items, but will also prevent the floor covering from getting too wet.

• Versatility and efficiency. Models are equipped with two standard sensors, but for reliable protection apartments from plumbing and heating leaks can be added to the system additional sensors. You can also change the length of the wire if the standard 1 meter is not enough.

For the successful operation of the installation, the controller is programmed for periodic self-cleaning of the system, which runs once a month and the shut-off valves operate automatically. This helps prevent the accumulation of deposits on working mechanisms.

Systems purchased from an official dealer are covered by a manufacturer's warranty for a period of 3 years.

Fast and safe

The main advantages of Aquaguard from the Supersystems company are durability and safety. Correct connection of the equipment guarantees its operation for 4 years. In addition, the company took responsibility by confirming a lifetime warranty on unique wired sensors, regardless of the place and time of their purchase.

The safety of the Aquawatch system is ensured by low operating voltage

The safety of this protection system is ensured by its low operating voltage of 5V, which even in emergency situations will not harm the user's health. Shut-off valves made of nickel-plated brass prevent the occurrence of tap water impurities harmful to the human body. Additional advantages of the design include the following facts:

• Speed ​​of response. In this matter this system a real record holder. When a leak is detected, the taps are closed within 3 seconds! The “smart faucet” technology used analyzes faults at lightning speed and shuts off the water supply.

• Reliability. When producing products, the company used its own developments aimed at increasing the functionality and durability of mechanisms. A pair of Teflon gaskets and a third, elastic silicone one, provide a minimum of friction and, accordingly, consume a minimum of energy.

• Versatility. The ability to improve and expand the design allows for hassle-free upgrades to wired and wireless systems. This protection easily synchronizes with the smart home system, connects to pumping equipment and to mobile GSM signaling.

Right choice

Having become familiar with technical features systems presented, all that remains is to determine the number additional elements, calculate optimal length wires with a tap, and after purchasing everything you need, ensure professional installation of the entire installation. High-quality protection plumbing systems will prevent leaks and the possibility of flooding of property, and, as a result, will save the owner of a house or apartment from troubles and unforeseen financial expenses.

The third of which states: a robot must take care of its safety to the extent that this does not contradict the First and Second Laws. Those. one of the tasks smart home- take care of your safety, prevent break-ins, fires, floods, and other damage. Today we will talk about protection against leaks and flooding.

Aquawatch is a system that automatically shuts off the water when flooding is detected. A pipe bursts - water rushes onto the floor, hits the sensor, and the servo drive turns off the taps on the risers. Of course, this will not save you from wet floors - some of the water will still end up on the floor, but the repair will protect you, and at the same time protect the neighbors below from compensation after flooding. Let's take a look, take the Aquaguard system apart and find out if it's that good?

Controller

The kit is shown on the front, and the operating principle of the system on the side:


There is also a good and clearly written user manual:


The main part of the system looks like this:


Two taps - for cold and hot water, main control unit, flood sensors, external unit nutrition.
Here's a closer look at the main unit (TK03):


The controller is made in a very interesting way - it is assembled as a constructor into which additional extension blocks are inserted. Are 6 wired sensors not enough? Adding a panel, we get 18 sensors. We want from conventional system make it wireless? We insert the radio base and connect it to a special connector. Do you need the ability to turn off the heating or the pump when the water is turned off? We connect the panel with power relays. Missing a standard battery pack? We insert another one and extend the autonomous operation of the system for another year (if the system only has wired sensors, then for three years).
The entire system, except for wired sensors, has a 4-year warranty. The sensors have a lifetime warranty. True, they promise free replacement of no more than 3 sensors per user, apparently guided by the consideration “if a person breaks 3 sensors in a row, then the problem is not in the sensors.”
My version has four sensors - two wired and two radio sensors. The system can simultaneously work with both. The maximum number of wireless sensors is 8 (2 included), or 20 with an expander panel (TK19). The number of wired sensors is almost unlimited - a chain of up to 100 pieces can be connected to each connector, for a total of as many as 600 pieces.
There is a page on the site that describes all possible components with article numbers - in the future I will list them in parentheses for convenience.
A very interesting solution. Here is the mechanism for connecting the blocks, on one side of the latch:


On the other is a place for the wires that connect the blocks to each other:


Let's sort it out. Although it’s difficult to call it disassembly - we just pull the board out of the slots:


Controller, squeaker (very loud and nasty):


Two 20F ionistors:


And one for 10:


These are the same Nano-UPS :)


But in essence, it’s correct - they store a reserve of energy, which is enough to operate the device and turn off the taps after the batteries are completely empty. In general, if an accident occurs, the system will work and shut off the water even if the batteries are dead. After this, you can still open the taps once with the button if you urgently need water and don’t have time to run for batteries - this point has been thought out, which is nice. But after this the batteries will have to be replaced.
Below on the board there are 14 connectors, one of which is for the battery pack, one for connecting blocks, 6 for wired sensors, and 6 for taps. As I already wrote, there can be an almost unlimited number of wired sensors - they can be connected in parallel to each other. True, when using a sensor with break monitoring, it must be the last in the chain - otherwise the controller will not notice the break after it.

Cranes

Sensor

Radio base and sensors

And here are the radio sensors:


The right one is just a sensor (TK16), and the left one is a control panel sensor (TK18). The buttons can be used to close and open the taps at any time.
On back side for both sensors there is a board with contacts already familiar to us:


The sensor is disassembled quite simply - you need to pry off the central part from all sides one by one with a flat screwdriver. It holds very firmly - as I understand it, it is made to prevent water penetration.


By the way, a sensor with a button is the same as a sensor without a button, only with a button:


So if your hands are itchy and your soldering iron is getting hot, you can attach a button - I checked that the contacts work.
On the back of the board are contacts for batteries (2xAAA):


Controller, harness and tweeter:

Assembly

Installation

We simply place radio sensors in places of possible flooding:


We take the wired one through a hole in the wall (it was necessary to cut the wire and then connect it using tape locks):


We lower the wire down:


We screw the platform to the floor and install the sensor itself:


And close the lid:


The sensors are located around the apartment like this:


One is under the sink, the other is under the washing machine. Wired sensor - under the bathroom. The plan was drawn in SweetHome 3D

Connect the wires to the controller:


Green - sensor. In the first connector (it is labeled as zero) - only the sensor (or chain of sensors) is turned on without monitoring for wire breakage. The remaining connectors contain sensors with open circuit monitoring.
Blue arrow - tap connectors. There is no difference, they all close and open the same way. Lilac and yellow - external and battery power, respectively. Blue - connector for expansion cards (we have a radio base connected to it).
In general, the system after installation looks like this:


All that remains is to comb the wires so that they do not hang over your head.

Examination

Price

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Although heating and water supply systems bring great convenience to all of us, they can also cause accidents. Thus, thousands of water leaks are recorded daily, which occur in various reasons: inattention of people, breakdowns of communications, wear and tear of pipes and plumbing, poor-quality installation, etc. Whatever the reason, the consequence always remains the same - flooding not only of your apartment, but also of neighboring ones, and repairs then cost a tidy sum. According to the law of meanness, at the moment when a leak occurs, people are often not at home, so it is not possible to eliminate it quickly. Everything would become much more convenient if you could know exactly when a leak occurs and immediately shut off the entire water supply system at home. IN modern world This is no longer a dream, but a reality.

To ensure that flooding does not occur, you can install a water leakage monitoring system. Its sensors instantly react to the presence of water on the floor and give a signal to shut off the water. At the same moment, the owners of the apartment receive a signal about what happened, and only then can call any plumber in Kyiv or another city to eliminate the cause of the breakdown and eliminate the most minimal consequences.

But, unfortunately, choosing such a system is not the easiest task, since modern market There are options with not very sensitive sensors, devices that are not protected from interference, etc. Therefore, today we turn our attention to how to choose the right leak control systems to be completely confident in your safety.

Criterias of choice

Modern leak control system comprises sensors that are located on the floor, a control unit that responds to sensor indicators and gives signals to solenoid valve, and if something happens, it shuts off the water supply to the apartment. In parallel with this, an SMS notification occurs, e-mail, in the form of a call to the owners.

Solenoid valves

Solenoid valves cut into the water supply: pay attention to the need to install a water filter in the place where the water will pass through the valve - this will ensure that it will work properly and close when needed. Experts also recommend not installing valves in place of a manual valve, so that you do not have to turn off the water supply to the entire riser.

Sensors

A very important component of the entire system is the sensors themselves, which are installed on the floor or mounted into it. Normally operating sensors will not respond to drops of water or wet cleaning, unlike many low-quality products. When the water level on the floor is detected by the system as critical, the sensors transmit a signal to the valve, which shuts off the water. The ideal voltage for working with valves is 12 V, but the usual 220 V will also work.

Supply system

Can't do without power supply, so try to keep it in a visible place so that it is always easy and quick to monitor the performance of the system. In order for the system to work properly, do not forget to take care of it: you need to clean the sensor contacts at least once a quarter from dirt, dirt and grease deposits and remove blockages in the filters located in front of the valve.

Today, water leakage control systems from companies such as Akvastorozh, Neptun and Gidrolock have proven themselves very well. Therefore, if you do not want to spend a long time dealing with the pros and cons of all existing solutions, but want to purchase the most reliable and durable system, then pay attention to the listed manufacturers.

Company "Neptune" has been operating in this market for almost 15 years. During this time, she has managed to accumulate significant experience and can provide several interesting solutions. Thus, the company offers the possibility of installing a wireless controller, which is much more convenient than wired analogues. Sensors are installed directly in those places where there is the greatest risk of leakage: under the sink, bathtub, etc. After sensor signals, the water supply is shut off for 5 seconds, and after the cause of the breakdown is eliminated, water can be returned to the house by pressing one button. Also, all of the company’s systems are equipped with a special system to prevent valve souring: once a month it automatically closes and opens, and you can set the time yourself. The controllers operate on voltages of 12 V and 220 V and are equipped with a source uninterruptible power supply. The system can be used both in residential premises and in administrative buildings.

Leak control systems from Hydrolock are characterized by similar functionality, but here they are even more careful in preventing valve contamination. So, every week a command is given to quickly close and open the valve or turn it a few degrees: as a result, this does not affect the comfort of the residents in any way, and the system cleans itself. All parts are made of high quality materials, so they can withstand more than 100,000 opening/closing cycles.

But the systems from "Aquawatchman" can boast of the longest warranty - as much as three years, an original approach to the power system, thanks to which all leakage control elements will function for quite a long time.

In-house engineering systems can cause unpleasant problems both for the owner of the premises and for neighboring apartments. The water in the water supply or heating system is under pressure. Any malfunction of plumbing fixtures, blockages in the sewer system, or carelessness of residents can lead to flooding of several apartments along the riser multi-storey building. Timely prevention of flooding of an apartment or house will help automatic system protection against water leaks. It can be one of the elements of the “smart home” control unit, where control of all systems is carried out automatically using special sensors, control and actuators.

How it works

Operating principle automatic protection from leaks is as follows. When water gets on special sensors, the electrodes short-circuit. The sensor sends a signal to the control controller, which sends a control command to the shutoff equipment. Electrically driven ball valves shut off the water flowing through the apartment mains. The total time from the beginning of the moment of flooding (water entering the sensor) until complete shutdown internal pipelines is up to 15 seconds. Some systems notify the owner of a residential premises that a leak has occurred.

Device

The protection system consists of three main components.

There are two types: wired and wireless, which sends a signal via radio waves. The task of the sensors is to monitor the humidity of the floor and to operate in the presence of a large volume of moisture (water). The sensitivity of the sensors is such that they do not react and do not send signals to turn off the water supply if it gets slightly on the sensor. Simple splashes when swimming or washing your face will not trigger the sensor, and there will be no constant false alarms. Turning off the water due to splashes while taking a shower will be, at least, an unpleasant moment.

If there is a real threat of flooding, the sensors will definitely work. Sensor installation locations are selected in areas where water is likely to accumulate. As a rule, these places are located near potential sources of water: toilet, under the sink, bathtub, next to the washing machine, pipelines. The sensors give a signal only after the electrodes are closed. They are available in both wired and wireless models. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. To install a wireless sensor, there is no need to think about where and how to lay the wires. Batteries are responsible for the operation, the charge of which must be monitored. If they are discharged, then at the moment of leakage they will not work. The reliability of wired sensors in these parameters is higher.

Controller

This is an automatic control system that receives signals from sensors, processes them and sends commands to actuators (electrically driven locking equipment). The task of the control unit is to collect information, make timely decisions and quickly issue commands to turn off the water. The blocks can receive and process signals from several sensors, as well as control several electrovalves.

Represents ball valve, which is driven by solenoid valve. The task of the tap is to turn off the water when a signal is given from the controller. The system has at least two valves, which are installed after the shut-off valves of the intra-apartment distribution of hot and cold water supply pipelines. The system can be equipped with a large number of sensors if it is necessary to monitor several risers, as well as a heating system. The design of shut-off valves with an electric or electromagnetic drive can be different.

System installation

Before installing the leakage protection system, carefully read the installation and operating instructions. The layout of all elements must be designed in detail, taking into account the characteristics of the room in which it will be installed and the pipelines. The placement of elements should be at a distance from each other depending on the length of the existing connecting wires. If the length of the wires is not enough, then they need to be increased. It is advisable to install the system during renovations in the room where all the elements will be located. Wires laid on top of the floor covering will not look aesthetically pleasing and may be subject to mechanical stress, even to the point of breaking. It is recommended to hide the wires between the seams of ceramic tiles.

Shut-off valves should be located immediately behind shut-off valves that shut off water from in-house risers.

Note! It is desirable to have a coarse filter in front of the electrovalves.

Installation of sensors can be done in two ways:

1. Floor mounting It is assumed that the sensor is inserted into flooring. The contact plates should protrude 3–4 mm above the floor surface. This eliminates false positives. The wire is laid in a special protective corrugated pipe. This method is recommended by system manufacturers.
2. Installation on the floor surface. Used when it is impossible to install sensors on the floor. In this case, the sensors are turned over and placed with the plates down to shut off the water. Protrusions on the sensor body do not allow them to close when they touch the floor, which protects the system from false alarms.

Any option for installing the sensor must allow it to be removed along with the wire if it fails and can be promptly replaced.

The controller is installed in a dry place protected from moisture. The power supply is carried out hidden in the wall. At the location, holes are drilled for mounting the cabinet to accommodate the controller. After installing the box, we connect all the wires to the controller according to the diagram and install it in the box. When connecting the control unit, do not forget about safety precautions and turn off the power supply to the wires leading to the controller. After connecting all the elements, we check the operation of the system.

Comparison of systems

In the domestic market, water leakage systems are represented by Russian and foreign manufacturers, with the leading positions of the brands “Neptun”, “Akvastorozh”, “Gidrolock”.

“Neptun” systems from the company “Special Systems and Technologies” allow you to solve problems of protection against leaks for one room, residential buildings, administrative buildings. The kit includes an electronic control unit, sensors with special contact plates and electric ball valves. Neptune systems can be supplied with wireless sensors. The water supply stop time is 5-7 seconds from the moment the sensor is triggered, after which a sound and alarm notification of the accident occurs. An additional GSM module allows you to send SMS messages to the homeowner if an accident occurs in his absence.

Note! The systems have a number of additional service functions: monthly automatic rotation of the ball valves to prevent souring, recognition of broken connections with sensors, and the presence of an uninterruptible power supply in the event of a power outage.

The range of models allows you to choose 5 wired and 4 wireless control modules, with wired and wireless sensors. The total number of connected sensors is 10.

"Gidrolock" are produced by the company "Gidroresurs". The line is represented by 4 models. The set includes ball valves made of of stainless steel with a Teflon seal and an electric drive, sensors with a wire length of 3 m, which can be increased to 100 m. Protection against acidification provides for preventive closing and opening of taps every week.

"Aquawatch" has an identical principle of operation. Fully autonomous system, works only from replaceable batteries. Based on a single controller, you can choose 4 wired option and 3 wireless.

Video

Watch a video about the Aquawatch Expert leak protection system: