Many homeowners wonder: If I already have a leak detector, do I really need a smart water shutoff too? Or vice versa. The truth is that while both technologies protect against water damage, they serve different purposes — and together, they create a comprehensive home protection system.
Let’s break down the differences, how they work individually, and why pairing them offers the best defense against frozen pipes, leaks, and water damage.
What is Leak Detection?
A leak detector like the StreamLabs® Control monitors your plumbing environment for risks:
- Detects temperature drops that could lead to frozen pipes.
- Tracks unusual water flow patterns.
- Provides humidity and water presence alerts in vulnerable areas like basements or crawl spaces.
Leak detection is about awareness — knowing when there’s an issue before it escalates.
What is a Smart Water Shutoff?
The StreamLabs® Control Smart Water Shutoff goes a step further:
- Monitors your home’s entire water system in real time.
- Sends alerts to your smartphone when leaks or bursts occur.
- Automatically shuts off water to prevent flooding.
While leak detectors warn you, the smart shutoff actually stops the damage.
Why Both Are Important
- Different Layers of Protection
- Leak detectors are like smoke alarms — they warn you.
- Smart shutoff is like a fire sprinkler — it actively prevents damage.
- Frozen Pipe Protection
- Leak detector alerts you when pipes approach freezing.
- Smart shutoff prevents water from flooding your home if those pipes burst.
- Coverage of All Scenarios
- Small leaks (like a slow drip) are caught early by leak detectors.
- Major bursts (like a split pipe) are contained instantly by the smart shutoff.
Financial & Insurance Benefits
- Insurance savings: Many insurers offer discounts for homes with both technologies.
- Peace of mind: Whether you’re at home or away, you know your property is safe.
- Cost avoidance: Together, these tools prevent both small-scale leaks and catastrophic floods.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to choose between leak detection and smart shutoff — they’re designed to work together. A leak detector gives you insight and early warning, while a smart water shutoff provides hands-free protection when disaster strikes.
With StreamLabs® products, you’re not just reacting to plumbing emergencies — you’re preventing them altogether.
