How to choose the right Leak Detection System
Leak detection systems offer significant benefits to commercial buildings, tracing often undetected water leaks and alerting maintenance teams so that the cause of the leakage can be rectified quickly.
With different systems available, we’ve summarised the most popular water detection products to help you identify the option that will best suit your needs. Need some assistance with specifying? Get in touch to request a design and quote.
What is a leak detection system?
A leak detection system offers automatic leak monitoring of liquids such as water, oil or fuel, or gases such as refrigerant gas used in air conditioning. The system will typically include sensing probes or sensing cable connected to an alarm panel. This can be used as a stand alone leak alarm or integrated to a centrally controlled BMS. It can also be installed along side a remote monitoring device that offers text and email alerts in addition to an audible alarm. Learn more about water leak detection systems.
Where are leak detectors placed?
Leak detection equipment can be installed anywhere there is a danger of liquid or gas escape. The most popular areas include plant and boiler rooms, communications and data rooms, kitchens, tea points and bathrooms. Cables and probes can be fitted to the floor, walls, pipework, or in drip trays and bunds.
How much does escape of water cost UK business?
Commercial premises are at a higher risk of water leakage and losses of up to £1 million have been seen in commercial properties compared with an average of £3000 for residential homes. As a result, it’s very common for insurers to insist businesses and property managers invest in water leak detection systems and a regular maintenance schedule of leak monitoring equipment. With escape of water insurance claims topping almost £1 billion each year across all types of properties, leak detection monitoring could help keep your premiums low.
Popular water leak alarm applications
Major leak detection
Critical in preventing major escape of water, mains water leak detection systems can also help you achieve BREEAM credit for Wat 03 (water leak detection and prevention).
We specify the AquiTron AT-WFM pulse water meter that monitors water flow, isolating the mains water pipe if flow exceeds a pre-set limit, thereby limiting the amount of water and potential property damage.
WC water supply
Popular in commercial bathrooms and achieving BREEAM credit for Wat 02, PIR automatic water shut off systems can isolate WC water supply when they are not in use, minimising undetected water wastage and leaks.
We specify the AquiTron AT-OFC controller, a flow control device that regulates the water supply to each sanitary area. This is fitted alongside PIR motion sensors and solenoid valves for automatic water on-off supply.
Multi-zone leak detection
For leak monitoring in multiple zones such as different rooms or floors in a building, we commonly specify the TraceTek TTDM master alarm panel. This has the impressive capability of operating up to 128 controllers and digitally locates a leak within 1 metre on its alarm system. You’re able to monitor water, fuel oil, chemical and refrigerant gas escape and it’s installed with either leak sensing cables or probes.
For multi-zone detection on a smaller scale, the Aquilar AquiTron AT-MZA can monitor up to 8 individual sensing zones. This multi-functional leak alarm system can control individual air conditioning units, pumps and valves in separate zones, monitoring up to 100m of cable or 10 sensors in each zone.
Single zone
Monitor water escape in high risk areas such as teapoints and kitchens with a single zone leak detection panel. The EcoLeak water alarm panel can detect leaks in a single area with an audible and visual alarm, helping to prevent undetected water escape from going unnoticed and causing property damage. Used with either sensing cables or probes, they’re a low cost, reliable automated alarm that can also be installed alongside solenoid valves for automatic water shut-off when a leak is triggered.
Wireless leak detection
The vast majority of water detection systems are wired but there are occasions where a wireless system is more appropriate for the building. We specify the AquiWave range of wireless detectors from Aquilar.
This leak alarm is based on proven fire alarm technology and creates its own mesh network to ensure no interference or reliability issues with incumbent wifi systems. Products include wireless water sensing cables, probes, radio control panels and accessories such as a booster panel, radio transmitter devices and beacons with sounder alarms.
Do you need to service your leak detection system?
It is essential that you have your system professionally serviced regularly. When completing your installation, we will advise on your service requirements as this is dependent on your product, manufacturers warranty, and may also be instructed by your insurers. At a minimum, a full service should be undertaken yearly to ensure the reliable operation of your leak monitoring solution. Read more about what’s included in our Service and Maintenance visits.
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