While there are plenty of different smart home control and automation platforms, Samsung SmartThings remains one of the most user-friendly. It’s incredibly easy to set up and use. And tons of SmartThings-compatible devices are available, from speakers and voice assistants to smoke detectors, smart plugs, video doorbells, and light bulbs. Adding sensors to a SmartThings network lets you monitor your home from anywhere as well as configure automations. Check out the best Samsung SmartThings leak sensors you can buy!
What is Samsung SmartThings and How Does it Work?
Samsung SmartThings is an intuitive smart home control and automation ecosystem. A SmartThings network consists of hardware and software. On the hardware side, a central hub connects to various SmartThings devices such as cameras, thermostats, video doorbells, and smart lights. In turn, a SmartThings hub communicates with devices on a network and SmartThings-capable devices “talk” with one another as well. Then, the SmartThings app lets you monitor and control your various devices. For instance, you can configure automations or scenes to perform certain actions like turning off the lights when you leave a room, or locking the front door automatically.
There are loads of Internet of Things (IoT) protocols. SmartThings makes use of ZigBee and Z-Wave for wireless communication between hubs and devices. Although most ZigBee and Z-Wave gadgets should function just fine with SmartThings, official SmartThings-certified products are guaranteed to work. Alternatively, if this then that (IFTTT) may be used to use unofficial smart sensors and devices on a SmartThings network.
ZigBee is a mesh network, so signals can easily bounce from one ZigBee device to another without the need to connect to your home Wi-Fi network. Additionally, ZigBee boasts AES-128 encryption, and ZigBee 3.0 devices operate on a 2.4GHz network for quick data transfer rates. Like ZigBee, Z-Wave is a mesh network. Whereas ZigBee devices can hop between one another, Z-Wave devices are limited to four hops so it’s a bit more limited than ZigBee. Similarly, only 232 Z-Wave devices may comprise a network which should be more than enough for most residential users.
While ZigBee opts for a 2.4GHz network, Z-Wave instead operates on the 800-900MHz range of frequencies so it won’t interfere with a Wi-Fi signal or other devices running on a 2.4GHz network. Because ZigBee is an open wireless standard, interoperability isn’t as good as with Z-Wave, a proprietary technology run by the Z-Wave Alliance. Z-Wave features a slightly longer signal range of up to 300 feet when unobstructed, and around 50 feet with walls in the way, versus around 40 feet with ZigBee. But ZigBee is slightly more energy-efficient. Overall, ZigBee and Z-Wave both have their advantages and disadvantages.
What is a Smart Water Leak Sensor and Why Should You Use One?
A smart water leak sensor monitors for the presence of liquid. Flood detectors feature probes, either built directly into the device or on a probe. This is then installed strategically, for instance under a sink, near a bathtub, or by a water heater. In the event of a flood or spill, a water leak sensor will send notifications to let you know of any excess moisture.
With ZigBee or Z-Wave onboard, SmartThings leak sensors can send push notifications to mobile devices, trigger alarms and sirens, and set off lights to signal that there’s a flood or leak. Additionally, you can power on and off various devices in the event of unwanted wetness. For example, when a smart leak sensor detects liquid, it could send a signal to a smart plug to power on a dehumidifier. Or, you could configure automations to turn off devices in the event of a flood to keep your electronics safe. You might even set up an automated sequence to shut off a water supply in the event of a leak to protect against further damage using a SmartThings-compatibility water shut-off valve. The possibilities are nearly limitless.
Best Wireless SmartThings Compatible Water Sensor – Ecolink ZigBee Flood Sensor
For a completely wire-free experience, Ecolink makes its ZigBee wireless flood detection sensor. The hockey puck-shaped device is small, attractive, and sits directly on the floor with no need for an external sensor. With a slim 0.39-inch profile, the Ecolink FLZB1-ECO flood sensor fits perfectly under appliances and furniture. Four gold-plated corrosion-resistant probes detect as little as 1/64-inch of water. While there’s no means of plugging the Ecolink wireless ZigBee flood detection sensor in, its long-lasting four-year battery life should be more than enough for most users. There’s a mounting bracket included for flexible installation options. Affordable and simple to set up, the Ecolink ZigBee wireless flood detector is the best SmartThings water leak sensor available.
Pros:
- ZigBee
- Small 0.39-inch profile, fits easily under appliances and furniture
- Detects as little as 1/64-inch of water
- Four gold-plated corrosion-resistant probes
- Long-lasting 4-year battery life
Cons:
- No temperature sensor or humidity sensor
Best SmartThings Leak Sensor – Aeotec Water Sensor 6
The Aeotec Water Sensor 6 Z-Wave smart leak detector is the best overall SmartThings water leak sensor on the market. It’s able to detect the presence of a liquid when water makes contact with its probe, then send alerts using a buzzer alarm. In addition to the water leak sensing capabilities, the Aeotec Water Sensor 6 can detect freezing with its onboard temperature sensor. What’s more, there’s a built-in vibration sensor for increased monitoring. You can attach two sensor probes for extensive coverage.
Since the Aeotec Water Sensor 6 is intended to be around liquids, it’s outfitted with an IP65 rating for water resistance. While there is an on-device alarm, it’s not particularly loud. However, you can easily set up various automations to trigger SmartThings alarms or send push notifications. With an IP65 rating, built-in alarm, and temperature as well as vibration sensors alongside its liquid detection system, the Aeotec Water Sensor 6 is the top SmartThings-compatible water sensor available.
Pros:
- Water, temperature, and vibration sensors onboard
- Built-in alarm
- Can attach two water sensors for increased detection area
- IP65-rating
- Z-Wave
Cons:
- Alarm isn’t very loud
Best SmartThings Water Leak Sensor – Ecolink Z-Wave Plus Flood & Freeze Sensor
Ecolink offers a good budget Samsung SmartThings leak sensor. There’s a 36-inch probe that can quickly detect leaks. Aside from water monitoring, the Ecolink Z-Wave Plus flood and freeze sensor sports a temperature sensor for tracking temperature that triggers a warning at 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius). You could even use the baked-in freeze sensor to send a message to your SmartThings-compatible thermostat that will turn on or up the heat. Boasting Z-Wave Plus, the Ecolink flood and freeze sensor works with SmartThings, Vera Plus, Vera Edge, Vera Lite, HomeSeer, D-Link, and more. Because the Ecolink is battery-powered, you’ll need to replace the battery when it’s low. While that’s convenient for installation without the need for a nearby outlet, it could be a nuisance when attempting to access the Ecolink in a hard to reach area. Still, it’s a great flood sensor that natively works with SmartThings.
Pros:
- Works with SmartThings, Vera Plus, Vera Edge, Vera Lite, HomeSeer, D-Link, and more
- Z-Wave Plus
- Long 36-inch probe
- Freeze detection with built-in temperature sensor
Cons:
- Only battery-powered
Best Water Leak Sensor for SmartThings – Fibaro Flood Sensor
Fibaro’s Z-Wave flood sensor is an excellent Samsung SmartThings leak sensor. You”ll find three 24K gold telescoping feet for constant contact with any surface. Rocking Z-Wave wireless connectivity, the Fibaro FGFS-101 ZW3 flood sensor works well with SmartThings and other Z-Wave hubs. It’s small and fits under appliances or furniture seamlessly. What’s more, the Fibaro flood sensor features Z-Wave Plus for better wireless range and battery life. There’s an onboard LED light and alarm that provides local notifications in the event of a leak. Unfortunately, the built-in alarm isn’t particularly loud. But you can trigger louder SmartThings alarms as well as send push notifications. Compact and high-performing, the Fibaro flood sensor is one of the best SmartThings sensors for leak detection.
Pros:
- Z-Wave Plus-certified
- Works with SmartThings, Vera, and more
- Onboard LED light and built-in alarm
- Three 24K gold telescoping feet
Cons:
- Alarm isn’t very loud
- Not compatible with HomeKit
Top Samsung SmartThings Leak Sensor – Neo Coolcam Z-Wave Water Sensor
The Neo Coolcam is a fantastic SmartThings leak sensor. Featuring Z-Wave connectivity, the Neo Coolcam flood detection system boasts compatibility with SmartThings, HomeSeer, Fibaro, Vera, Wink, and more. The Neo Coolcam flood water alarm sensor utilizes an extension cable to detect liquids. It’s battery-powered and comes with an onboard alarm. as well as an LED indicator light. Affordable, simple to set up,
Pros:
- Z-Wave Plus
- 3-foot long sensor cable
- Battery-powered
- Works with SmartThings, HomeSeer, Fibaro, Vera, Wink, and more
- Built-in alarm and LED indicator light
Cons:
- None
Best Water Sensor for SmartThings – Samsung SmartThings Water Leak Sensor
Samsung makes a fantastic SmartThings water leak sensor. Aside from liquid detection, the Samsung SmartThings water leak sensor provides temperature monitoring functionality. You can configure sirens, lights, and push notifications to let you know when certain moisture or temperature thresholds have been detected. It uses the ZigBee protocol for communication on a smart home platform, and aside from SmartThings Samsung’s flood detector sensor works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and more. It’s battery-powered and simple to install.
Disappointingly, you won’t find humidity sensing, an onboard alarm or LED indicator, and there’s no Wi-Fi connectivity. Moreover, the Samsung SmartThings water leak sensor doesn’t work with Apple HomeKit. Still, for a no-frills flood detector, the Samsung water leak sensor is the best water sensor for SmartThings.
Pros:
- Easy to use and install
- Water and temperature detection
- ZigBee
- Works with SmartThings, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant
- Battery-powered
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi
- Lacks Apple HomeKit compatibility
SmartThings Leak Sensor – Dome Water Leak Sensor
Dome’s smart home water leak detector touts a built-in LED light and buzzer for local notifications. Z-Wave onboard means the Dome water leak sensor offers SmartThings compatibility and works with Wink, HomeSeer, Nexia, and more. It’s battery-powered with a lengthy three-year battery life. Since the Dome leak sensor is made for moisture detection, it includes a water-resistant design. In addition to the puck itself, the Dome leak sensor touts a detachable probe. Sadly, unlike many other smart flood detectors, the Dome moisture sensor lacks a temperature reader. Nevertheless, the Dome water leak sensor is one of the best SmartThings leak sensor options on the market.
Pros:
- Z-Wave Plus
- Detachable probe for water sensing
- Built-in LED indicator light and buzzer
- 3-year battery life
- Works with SmartThings, Wink, HomeSeer, Nexia, and more
- Water-resistant design
Cons:
- No temperature sensor
Best Smart Water Leak Detector for Samsung SmartThings – Centralite Water Leak Sensor
Centralite’s water leak sensor works extremely well with Samsung SmartThings as well as Wink, Vera, and other ZigBee platforms. It boasts a two-year battery life and a baked-in temperature sensor. The small, rectangular box sits directly on top of the floor or other surface, and a pair of gold-plated feet underneath monitor for the presence of liquids. Disappointingly, it doesn’t work with Apple’s HomeKit. But for SmartThings use, the Centralite water leak sensor is a good choice for flood monitoring.
Pros:
- Works with SmartThings, Wink, Vera, and more
- ZigBee
- 2-year battery life
- Small, easy to use and install
- Temperature sensor onboard
Cons:
- Lacks Apple HomeKit compatibility
Best Water Leak Detector for SmartThings – Everspring Water Detector
Everspring offers a nifty flood monitoring device. The Everspring water detector features Z-Wave connectivity for compatibility with Samsung’s SmartTHings, HomeSeer, and other smart home control ecosystems. There’s a built-in status LED indicator. Its wired probe is long enough so the Everspring may be placed high up and the probe can still detect the presence of moisture on the ground. Disappointingly, there’s no temperature or humidity sensor. Yet, if you need a good flood sensor that works with SmartThings, the Everspring is a wonderful option.
Pros:
- Z-Wave
- Works with SmartThings, HomeSeer, and more
- Built-in LED status indicator
- Long probe
- Uses standard AA batteries
Cons:
- Non-detachable probe
- No humidity or temperature sensor onboard
Best SmartThings Water Leak Sensor Options – Final Thoughts
A smart flood detector is a great addition to any home for monitoring unwanted leaks. Ecolink’s SmartThings-compatible water sensor is an excellent option that’s small, easy to install, and wire-free. Alternatively, the Ecolink freeze and flood sensor adds a temperature reader. Aeotec’s Water Sensor 6 includes a temperature and vibration sensor along with its moisture sensing capabilities. Fibaro offers a good budget water leak detector, while the Neo Coolcam is cheap and works great. Samsung, Centralite, Dome, and Everspting all make solid SmartThings leak sensors too. Ultimately, there are tons of moisture sensors that work with SmartThings for keeping your home safe and dry.
Your turn: Which Samsung SmartThings leak sensors do YOU recommend?
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