Max. number of sensors
The largest number of leakage sensors allowed for simultaneous connection to the control unit. Essentially, this parameter determines the number of places that can be protected from leaks using a particular system. An apartment building or a small office rarely requires more than 10–15 sensors, but large buildings may need several dozen, or even hundreds of them.
Note that the number of sensors in a set (see “In box”) is often less than the maximum possible — in the expectation that the customer will complete the system with the required number of sensors as needed. It is also worth saying that this paragraph takes into account all types of sensors — both wired and wireless. If the kit allows both connection methods, then the number of supported wireless sensors is specified separately in the specifications.
Max. number of valves
The maximum number of electric valves that can be simultaneously connected to the control unit; in other words, the largest number of points at which the water supply can be shut off using this system. For home use, most often
2–3 taps are sufficient (hot water, cold water, washing machine/dishwasher); for larger buildings, a larger number may be required.
Closing time
The speed of the valve responds to an alarm signal. The faster the valve closes, the less water will spill from the depressurized circuit. A good response time is 2.5 s. For entry-level and mid-level leak protection systems, the normal response time is 5 to 7 seconds.
Sensors shutdown
Ability to temporarily
disable individual sensors of the leak detection system.
In some cases, getting water on the sensor is not an emergency and does not indicate a leak — for example, if you decide to wash the walls in the bathroom where the sensor is installed. For such cases, it is possible to disable some sensors.
Valve exercise function
The frequency with which the system carries out preventive maintenance to
protect the valve from jamming.
Jamming can occur if the valve has been in a stationary position for a long time: deposits appear on its internal parts that interfere with the movement of these parts. To avoid this, with a certain frequency (once a month, once every half a month or once a week), valve exercise can be turned on: the device closes and opens the valve several times. The more often this process is carried out, the less likely it is that the valve will become dirty and will not be able to function normally.
Alarm
Types of alerts provided in the protective system.
— Sound. Notification of various events with a sound signal. The most common use is to sound an alarm when a leak is detected to draw attention to the problem and possibly contain the water that has already spilt and prevent damage. In addition, there may be other reasons for sound notification — for example, a critically low battery.
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Wire break alarm. Notification of a broken wire going to the wired sensor. Protective systems with this function during operation constantly monitor the connection with the sensors and give a signal when a break is detected. This avoids situations where the sensor does not work due to damage to the connecting wire.
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Valve failure alarm. Leak detection systems with this function periodically check the operability of the valves and if problems are detected, they issue a warning. This reduces the likelihood that the valve will be broken and will not be able to perform its function.
