How to monitor for water leaks using Samsung SmartThings

How-to
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When it comes to using SmartThings, there really are a ton of options for monitoring your home and keeping you safe. One thing that often gets overlooked, however, are leaks. Whether it be old pipes, a washing machine, a hot water heater, or even an old fridge — leaks can happen at any time and either ruin your day or damage your property. Thankfully, the SmartThings Water Leak Sensor can give you peace of mind for just $20. Here's how to use it.

Products used in this guide

How to set up the SmartThings Water Leak Sensor

Perform these actions in the SmartThings app:

  1. Add Device > Add Device Manually > Water leak sensor > SmartThings IM6001-WLP0
  2. Remove the battery tab on the sensor marked Remove when connecting.
  3. In the app, tap Next then scan the QR code on the back of the sensor.
  4. Your SmartThings hub will search for the device. Once it's discovered, tap Save > Done.

Once your new sensor has been added to your SmartThings hub, you just need to place it wherever you need to monitor. Keep in mind that the sensor will trigger when the small metal dots come in contact with water, so place it anywhere you expect water to pool — in front of your washing machine or hot water heater, in the corner of the basement, or under the kitchen or bathroom sink. You can also add multiple sensors using the same method to ensure you're totally covered should any water mishaps take place in your home.

Our top equipment picks

For this job, the SmartThings sensor from Samsung is the way to go.
Our pick
SmartThings Water Leak Sensor

A smart choice
This small sensor is all you need to start monitoring for leaks in your home. It goes wherever you need it and easily connects using the SmartThings app so you can monitor your home wherever you may be.

This OEM sensor from Samsung is the best way to monitor water leaks in your home. It's dead-simple to set up and will give you peace of mind should any mishaps occur. It's small enough to fit nearly anywhere and is truly a "set it and forget it" device — until you need to change out the battery at least.

Other Options

If this sensor doesn't fit the bill for you, here are a few others that will get the job done.

Fibaro Flood Sensor ($33 at Amazon)

Built-in temperature and tilt-sensor give the Fibaro a few added features for a bit more cash.

Centralite Water Leak Sensor ($35 at Amazon)

This sensor features a built-in temperature sensor and has a 2-year battery life to keep it going strong.

Adam Zeis
Adam Zeis
Editorial Director - High Yield

Adam is the Editorial Director of High-Yield content at Future. Leading an outstanding team, he oversees many articles the publisher produces about subscriptions and services including VPN, TV streaming, and broadband. In addition to identifying new e-commerce opportunities, he has produced extensive buying guides, how-to-watch content, deal news, and in-depth reviews. Adam's work can be seen on numerous Future brands including TechRadar, Tom's Guide, T3, TTR, Android Central, iMore, Windows Central, and Real Homes.