Flood Stop Devices and Flood Alarms

Serving Dallas – Ft.Worth (DFW) Metroplex including Highland Park and University Park

Leaking water heaters are one of the main causes of homes that are flooded. The steel tank begins to leak, many times when the resident is not home or at night when everyone is sleeping. Most water heaters, when replaced, are now set inside aluminum drain pan that have a small discharge pipe that leads from the drain pan to the exterior to prevent interior water damage to the property. Unfortunately, if the leak is catastrophic, the small discharge pipe is not adequate and water pours over the side of the drain pan resulting in damage. Some older properties constructed before water heater drain pans were required by code, have heaters that are located on interior concrete foundations, and cannot be protected by the pan discharge piping method. In this case, Levy & Son can furnish and install a water and gas safety valve (WAGS) on the cold water supply line to the water heater. This safety valve is placed inside the drain pan and if activated by approximately 7/8” of water, the valve automatically closes to prevent water pressure on the tank and helping to prevent major damage. A good time to consider this valuable device is when the water heater is replaced, which will help provide peace of mind.

Another way to alert you of possible water damage is to purchase a water alarm. This device can also be placed inside a water heater drain pan or on the floor beside the water heater, washing machine, toilet, etc. These units are relatively inexpensive and by simply replacing the battery at proper intervals, can also provide added protection against water damage to your home.