A burst pipe is one of the biggest nightmares a homeowner can face, with costs running into thousands in damage and repairs. Adding a leak detector to your home can help prevent damage from broken seals, clogged lines and excessive water pressure, as well as warn you of rapid temperature changes that can lead to frozen pipes.
Some models will also alert you to flood water intrusion or sump pump failures, which are a particular concern if you live in an area prone to flooding. The D-Link CDH-S1621KT Sensor Kit (our top pick for whole-house coverage) is a great choice for this, with a base station and long sensor probe that can reach difficult spots.
The UEi Test Instruments Combustible Gas Leak Detector makes our list for its gold-star reviews, accuracy and ease of use. It uses an LED light display to show you roughly how much flammable gas is in the air and comes with an extra-long 18-inch probe to reach tight spaces.
If you’re a homeowner, a smart leak detector can work with your existing devices to send you alerts or turn on lights, while some will shut off your water to limit the damage. However, it’s important to note that most of these types of sensors require a Wi-Fi connection, which can fail and leave you without a backup.
We recommend looking for a model that can work without Wi-Fi by connecting to your local network via ethernet or using an external battery. This is especially helpful if you want to avoid paying for a subscription, or if your home’s internet service goes down. We also think it’s a good idea to consider a model with a built-in siren, as this can notify you of an issue even when your phone isn’t nearby. Top 10 leak detectors