Summary: - The episode explains how water leaks can cause costly damage and offers a simple plan to detect leaks with water sensors, protect a smart home, and save money. - What a water sensor does: detects moisture or puddles and alerts you. Three main types are: - Contact sensors (discs with metal legs that trigger on contact with water) - Sensor cables (long cords detecting moisture along their length) - Flow sensors with automatic shut-off valves (monitor flow and stop supply if leaks are detected) - How to choose: - Mobile alerts and smart-home integration - Loud local alarm - Optional automatic shut-off valve - Battery life, moisture protection rating, app event history, and adjustable sensitivity to avoid false alarms - Placement ideas (high-risk spots): - Under the kitchen sink - Behind washer/dishwasher - Base of water heater - Bathroom near toilet and sink - Basement/boiler room - Next to fridge with water dispenser - Near the main shut-off valve - Step-by-step installation (no fancy tools): - Dry the area, place sensor at the lowest point or where water would accumulate, lay cables to form a perimeter if present - Pair with app, name sensors clearly (e.g., “Kitchen leak”) - Test with water drops and adjust location or sensitivity if needed - Set notification recipients (trusted contacts) - Smart-home automation ideas: - Alert + shut-off: automatically close a smart water valve - Night mode: turn on lights if a leak is detected while sleeping - Travel mode: raise notification priority and inform a family member - Logs: track history to identify slow leaks - Maintenance and costs: - Monthly tests, check/replace batteries every six months, clean contacts, update firmware - Basic detectors: ~€20–€40; automatic shut-off valves cost more but can prevent floods - Some insurers offer discounts for having leak detectors - Quick tips: - Before trips, close the main shut-off; use Travel mode - Use drip trays under appliances - In high-rise buildings, prioritize washing machine, dishwasher, and bathroom leaks - Place a sensor near toilets with frequent refills - Privacy: secure your Wi-Fi and consider a dedicated network for smart devices - Three-step action plan: - Today: identify two critical points and write them down - This week: buy one or two sensors and install them where it makes sense - This month: add a shut-off valve and automate the shut-off for leaks - Closing: encourages sharing experiences and thoughts about what to automate; contact info is provided Remeber you can contact me at andresdiaz@bestmanagement.org