Water damage often brings to mind images of soaked carpets and ruined electronics, but its true threat extends much deeper, impacting the very foundation of your home. Prolonged exposure to moisture can weaken structural elements, leading to issues like mold growth, wood rot, and compromised electrical systems. These hidden damages often go unnoticed until they become severe, resulting in costly repairs and health hazards.
Protect your home, cottage or business from potentially devastating damage by installing a WaterCop leak detection and automatic water shut off system. WaterCop uses a commercial quality heavy duty electric water shut off valve to automatically shut off the main supply line when any of the wireless water leak sensors detect water.
Water damage is one of the most common and expensive disasters, costing insurance companies over a billion dollars a year in claims. Water leaks can be the result of old or frozen pipes that burst, cracking toilets, rusted or old water heaters, bad or old supply line hoses or fittings. Washing machines can spring a leak if something makes its way through the wash that should have been taken out of your pockets. Hot water tanks are under constant pressure.
Not only is your home at risk, but keep in mind that while some items can be replaced, original paintings and photographs, collectors items, photographs and the like cannot! Most people wait until they've had a leak causing a flood or water damage before they install a water damage prevention system. Be proactive and add some peace of mind with WaterCop.
WaterCop is sold as components to provide the most flexibility.
How Does the WaterCop Flood Sensor Work?
The WaterCop system uses wireless sensors placed in key areas prone to water leaks, such as near water heaters, washing machines, and sinks. These sensors detect the presence of water through probes that sense moisture. When water is detected, the sensor sends an immediate signal to the SmartConnect device, indicating a leak.
The WaterCop SmartConnect device processes this signal and automatically activates the water shut-off valve. This swiftly stops the flow of water, preventing further leakage and potential damage. Simultaneously, the SmartConnect device uses your home's WiFi or Ethernet connection to send real-time alerts to your smartphone, informing you of the leak and the valve's closure.
The integration of simple water detection technology with smart communication ensures comprehensive protection. The dedicated app provides instant notifications about leaks, valve statuses, and power outages, allowing you to monitor and control your WaterCop sensor system remotely. This mitigates water damage, offering peace of mind even when you are not at home.
Components of a WaterCop Automatic Water Shut-off System
Actuator
The actuator is the heart of the WaterCop flood sensor system, housing both the controls and the motor that operates the valve. There are two types of actuators: single-valve actuators and dual-valve actuators. Single-valve actuators are used when the WaterCop system needs to control only one valve, ideal for straightforward setups in smaller properties. Dual valve actuators are designed for installations requiring control of two valves simultaneously, making them suitable for larger properties or more complex plumbing configurations. When the sensors detect a leak, they send signals to the actuator, which then commands the valve to shut off the water supply. It's crucial to ensure the actuator is securely connected and placed in an area with a strong WiFi signal for optimal performance.
Valves
The valves in the WaterCop system are designed to automatically shut off the main water supply when a leak is detected, preventing further water damage. WaterCop offers two main types of valves: Builder Valves and Ready Valves. Builder Valves come with a manual handle, allowing a plumber to install them before attaching the actuator; once the system is ready, the handle is removed, and the actuator is installed. These are ideal for phased installations. Ready Valves, on the other hand, do not include a manual handle and require the actuator from the start, making them suitable for immediate system integration where the actuator controls the valve right away.
Sensors
The WaterCop automatic water shut off system sensors are essential for detecting water leaks. Available in single-probe and dual-probe configurations, these wireless sensors are typically battery-powered and can be placed in high-risk areas like under sinks, near water heaters, and washing machines. The single probe sensor monitors one area, while the dual probe can cover two locations simultaneously. The WaterCop Classic system can support an unlimited number of sensors, ensuring comprehensive leak detection coverage throughout your property. Avoid areas with high humidity where false alarms may occur. Regular maintenance, such as testing and battery replacement, is important to keep the sensors operational.
Accessories
Several accessories can enhance the WaterCop flood sensor system. The wall switch controller allows for manual on/off control of the water supply, which is convenient for areas away from the valve. The wireless repeater extends the range of the system, making it ideal for larger properties or areas with weak signal strength. The WPA plug-in power supply provides an alternative power source for the sensors, ensuring they remain functional even if batteries run out. These accessories adapt the system to various installation requirements and improve its overall performance.
WaterCop SmartConnect
With the WaterCop SmartConnect, you can receive real-time notifications on your smartphone about leaks, valve closures, and power outages. The WaterCop SmartConnect attaches to your WaterCop Classic or PRO system, connecting via WiFi or Ethernet to your local network. Installation is as simple as connecting to the internet and downloading the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. This setup ensures you instantly stay informed about your WaterCop system's status.
How to Build a WaterCop System
1. Choose the actuator you require.
This piece houses the brains of the system and the motor (actuator) for the valve(s). There are single and dual valve actuators available.
WCDACT - Single Valve
WCDACTDUAL - Dual Valve, two actuators
2. Choose the valve style and size(s).
- WaterCop Builder valves have a manual control handle attached and look like an off the shelf ball valve. They're meant to be installed by the plumber prior to inspection or when the actuator needs to be installed later. When it's time to finish the WaterCop installation, the handle is removed and the WaterCop actuator is attached. WCFLFxxx
- WaterCop Ready (standard) valves don't include a handle, so they require the WaterCop actuator to function WCMVLFxxx
3. Choose the style and quantity of water sensors.
Sensors are available with single and dual water probes. WaterCop Classic supports a virtually unlimited number of wireless water sensors. By default, they are battery powered.
WCDFS1 - Single probe wireless water sensor
WCDFS2 - Dual probe wireless water sensor
4. Add accessories if required.
RS100 - Wall switch controller for manual on/off control away from the valve where it may be more convenient.
WCDR - Wireless repeater for very large installations or where signal is weak or has interference
WPA - Plug-in power supply for sensors.
WaterCop sensor systems offer a comprehensive solution for detecting and preventing water damage. By using advanced technology and high-quality components, these systems reliably protect homes, cottages, and businesses. Browse product components at Absolute Automation to find the right setup for your needs and safeguard your property effectively.