Automatic Sensors Stop Washing Machine Floods

Prevent expensive damage to floors and ceilings by installing water sensors to automatically shut off water supply valves in case of an overflow or leak.

by Gary Wentz

From The Family Handyman

Click Image to enlarge.
Water does more damage to homes every year than fire. And the washing machine is one common source of water catastrophes.When supply hoses rupture or valves inside the machine go bad, water flows freely until someone shuts it off. Several devices are available that shut off the water automatically. The one shown here, called FloodStop, costs about $90 and takes less than 10 minutes to install. Here’s how it works: When the sensor detects water on the floor, it sends a signal to the control unit, which sounds a screeching alarm and automatically closes the valves.

To order FloodStop, go to www.smarthome.com (800-762-7846; item No. 7115). Shutoff systems for water heaters and other appliances are also available. To install the valves, you have to unscrew the supply hoses, so this is a good time to replace your old rubber hoses with safer, steel-sheathed hoses ($20 at home centers).