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How to Pay for a Smart Water Leak Detector

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How to Pay for a Smart Water Leak Detector

Protect your home from water damage by spreading the cost of a shut-off system over a year and a half.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $400 before anything else
Across the 0% window $22.22/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $400 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A smart leak detector sits on your main water line and watches for drips. If a pipe bursts while you are at work, the system kills the water automatically. It usually takes a plumber about an hour to install, so we suggest bundling this with other repairs to save on the service call fee.

Winter is the busiest time for plumbers because of frozen pipes, so try to book this in the spring or fall. Get at least two quotes for the labor. Some units are DIY, but a pro ensures the shut-off valve actually works when it matters.

The intro window is a firm deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance after 18 months, the standard interest rate applies to whatever is left, which makes the safety system much more expensive.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your hardware

    Look for a system that includes both the main shut-off valve and a few individual sensors. Place the sensors near high-risk spots like your water heater, washing machine, and dishwasher.

  2. 02

    Bundle the labor

    Plumbers often charge a flat fee just to show up. Wait until you have a leaky faucet or a clogged drain to fix so you can have them install the detector during the same visit.

  3. 03

    Use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi)

    This card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. If your system and labor cost $400, you can pay about $22.22 a month to clear the debt before the interest kicks in.

  4. 04

    Clear the workspace

    The plumber needs easy access to your main water shut-off valve. Move any boxes or storage items out of the way before they arrive to keep the billable hours low.

  5. 05

    Sync the app

    Once the valve is on the pipe, connect it to your home wifi. Test it by wetting one of the sensors to make sure the valve actually closes the water line as promised.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do I really need a plumber?

For systems that physically turn off your water main, yes. It involves cutting into your main pipe, and a mistake there leads to the exact flood you are trying to avoid.

Will this lower my insurance?

Many providers offer a discount on your homeowners policy because you have lowered the risk of a major claim. Call your agent and ask for the specific hardware they prefer.

Does it work during a power outage?

Most systems have a battery backup to keep the valve functional. Check the specs before you buy if you live in an area where the grid is unreliable.

Can I install just the sensors?

You can, but sensors only send a notification to your phone. A full system with a shut-off valve is what actually saves your house when you are not home to hear the alarm.