Water leakage protection partial housing. How to protect your washing machine from leaks

IN technical description washing machine or dishwasher you can find such a term as protection against water leaks.

What is it? The leak protection system is a complex technical devices designed to protect against flooding of the premises with water in the event of an emergency water leak in household appliance or if the inlet hose is damaged.

Different manufacturers of household appliances call this system differently: Aqua-Stop (Aquastop), Waterproof (Waterproof), Aqua-Safe (Aquasafe), Aqua-Alarm (Aquaelam), but they are structurally almost the same. Therefore, it will be enough to consider the principle of operation of this system using the example of a washing machine familiar to us.

Leak protection really useful system, it will help you avoid the unpleasant consequences of flooding the premises.

2. Types of leakage protection

According to the degree of protection against leaks, washing machines and dishwashers can be conditionally classified into several types:

• No leak protection
• With partial leakage protection
• With full leak protection

2.1 Without leakage protection

Most inexpensive washing machines do not have a leak protection system, that is, a standard flexible reinforced hose (hose high pressure) with plastic or metal nuts at the ends. One side of the hose is screwed to the faucet, and the other to the solenoid valve for the water supply of the washing machine.

If you look under the machine from below, you will notice that the bottom is not covered by anything or, as in many models of Candy and Samsung washing machines, it is covered with decorative dustproof plastic. Therefore, when there is any water leakage in the washing machine or the inlet hose breaks, all the water flows out onto the floor.

If the washing machine does not have leakage protection, it is recommended to regularly inspect the condition of the inlet hose, make sure that the washing machine does not have any signs of water leakage during operation, and every time after washing it is necessary to turn off the water tap, which is installed when connecting the machine.

2.2 Partial leakage protection

It is worth paying attention to what exactly the manufacturer or seller means by the term "partial leakage protection". In washing machines with partial or complete protection against leaks, one of the mandatory technical conditions is the presence of a solid plastic or metal tray. on a pallet, with inside fixed foam float with electric microswitch (Fig.1).

When a water leak occurs within the interior of the washing machine, the tray fills with water, the float rises and activates the microswitch. Upon a signal from the microswitch, the electronic control unit of the washing machine goes into emergency mode and the washing program stops. At the same time, the drain pump turns on and the water is pumped out of the washing machine tank.

The notification of the operation of the leakage protection system is displayed on the display of the control panel of the washing machine in the form of a corresponding inscription or a fault code. In this case, to bring the washing machine into working condition, it is necessary to remove water from the pan, identify and eliminate the cause of the leak.

Rice. one Partial leakage protection (only inside the CM case)

Now let's recap: in a washing machine with partial or full protection against leaks, there must be a special tray at the bottom of the washing machine and a float with a microswitch.

It is worth mentioning that some manufacturers have standardized the body of the washing machine, so the presence of a pallet does not always indicate the presence of leakage protection.

As you understand, a special float and drip tray prevent water leakage only in the washing machine itself. Therefore, such leakage protection can be called partial, since the standard inlet hose for connecting the washing machine does not have any safety system against rupture or damage.

To increase the reliability and emergency protection of the inlet hose itself, its special design has been developed, which we will describe.
Inlet hose with mechanical safety valve (Fig. 2). In the hardware store, it is offered as an additional option. You can purchase and install this hose yourself.

There are two types of such hoses, their purpose and principle of operation are the same, but they differ externally and structurally. We will only briefly describe the device and the principle of operation of such a hose, without delving into technical details.

View 1

Rice. 2 Inlet hose with mechanical safety valve

The standard inlet hose is enclosed in a corrugated sealed plastic sheath resembling drain hose washing machine. On one side there is a nut for connecting to the water supply valve of the washing machine, and on the other side there is a nut and a protective block for connecting to a water tap.

What is the defense system and how does it work?
The main link is a plunger with a spring and an absorbent. In working condition, water flows freely through the plunger into the inlet hose. The spring stiffness of the plunger is selected in such a way that it does not spontaneously overlap due to the flow of water passing through it, but is in a state of balance.

Let's say that there was a rupture of the inlet hose. Since it is in a closed and sealed protective shell, water will inevitably penetrate the protective block. A special absorbent (located in a protective block), when wetted with water, increases sharply in volume, dragging the spring with it, thereby weakening its effect on the plunger. The state of balance is disturbed and the plunger blocks the access of water under the influence of pressure on it plumbing system.

After the protective system has worked, the control eye turns red. This is due to the fact that the absorbent is in a special container made of red plastic. The disadvantage of such a hose is that after operation protective system it can only be replaced.

View 2

Rice. 3 Inlet hose with mechanical safety valve (on 2 permanent magnets)

How this hose works (Fig.3) the same as in the first type.
The only difference is that the stable position of the plunger is provided not by a spring, but by the magnetic field of two permanent magnets, facing each other with the same poles. As long as the absorbent of the fuse is dry, the distance between the magnets is small and the force of their mutual repulsion is large. As soon as the absorbent gets wet and expands, the fuse magnet moves away and the counteraction of magnetic fields decreases, thereby blocking the access of water to the plunger, under the pressure of the plumbing system.

Another difference. The nut of such a hose has a ratchet mechanism (ratchet), which allows you to freely screw it (the nut) to the thread of the water tap, and to unscrew it, you must hold the pawl pressed.
Like in a hose type 1, after the protection has been triggered, it is only subject to replacement.

3. Complete leak protection

Today it is one of the more reliable systems leakage protection.
It is implemented due to the synchronous operation of a special inlet hose with a normally closed solenoid valve and the already familiar leakage protection system of a washing machine with a float on a pallet.

A special hose is structurally provided and installed in the washing machine or dishwasher already by the manufacturer.

Such hoses have a special block in which one or two electromagnetic valves connected in series are installed, or they combine the operation of an electric and pneumatic valve (this scheme is used in some outdated models of dishwashers). Bosch machines and Siemens). The device of such a hose is shown in (Fig.4) This is the same high pressure hose placed in a flexible protective sheath.

The valve block (hose inlet) is connected with a nut to the water tap. The solenoid valve is hermetically sealed with a compound from which the power cable stretches along the entire hose and ends with a terminal block for connecting it to the electrical circuit of the washing machine.

Rice. 4 Inlet hose with solenoid valve (used in full leak proof design)

Now let's look at the diagram (Fig. 5), where the structural elements of complete protection against leaks are presented and we will figure out how it all works.

After the required washing program has been selected and activated, voltage is applied to the solenoid valves of the washing machine and the inlet hose valve, they open and water rushes into the washing machine. When the required water level in the washing machine tank is reached (the water level is controlled by the pressure switch and the electronic unit), the solenoid valves are turned off by the electronic control unit and water access is stopped. Valves always turn on and off only at the right time. This is how water is collected in the normal operation of the washing machine.

Rice. five Structural elements of complete protection against leaks

Now imagine a situation where a reinforced hose began to leak somewhere or a rupture occurred. Water filling the protective shell will rise along it to the drainage hose and the water will already drain into the washing machine tray, where the float with the switch is installed. As a result of the ascent of the float, the switch contacts are activated, circuit diagram will go into emergency mode, that is, all valves will block the access of water. In some cases, even the drain pump of the washing machine is turned on to pump out the water in the tank.

And if a water leak occurs directly in the washing machine itself, then the float pops up in the same way, the switch contacts are activated, the electronic circuit issues an alarm, the valves block the flow of water. It turns out that in all cases there is a multi-level cut-off of water from the water supply network. And as you probably noticed, the activating link in this chain is again the float on the washing machine tray.

In order to resume the operation of the machine, it is necessary to remove water from the sump, identify and eliminate the cause of the leak.
The disadvantages of a hose with a solenoid valve include burnout of the solenoid or damage to the diaphragm, in which it is necessary to change the entire hose or a separate unit, the cost of which can be quite high.

In conclusion, it should be said that all types of protection against water leaks in washing or dishwashers are local in nature, but still help out a lot and fully justify their goals. No one is safe from damage to fittings and threaded connections of the water supply system. Therefore, in order to avoid flooding the entire room, there are more global systems of protection against leaks.

A leak is not only an unpleasant phenomenon, but also dangerous, capable of causing harm to health and property, leading to conflicts and litigation with flood-affected neighbors and always associated with a considerable loss of nerves and finances. And all that is worth putting is protection against leaks!

Leaks are dangerous in any home, but only a smart home can "take care" of safety and stop the leak at the very beginning, blocking the flow of water. Of course, this will not save you from a wet floor, but the amount of damage will be minimal. To do this, in a smart home, leakage protection systems are designed, produced by various manufacturers, but working on the same principle.

The principle of operation of the leakage protection system

The design of most leak protection systems on the market today consists of four main elements:

• sensors that signal the appearance of water
• servo-driven taps that shut off the water supply
• signaling device that notifies of the appearance of leaks
• controller that processes the information received from the sensors and activates the system

The system can be supplemented with a GSM module that transmits a distress signal to a mobile device.

In order for the protection system to work, the sensor must become wet. A few drops of water or contact with a damp mop is not enough. Water should moisten the surface of the sensor, thus closing its contacts and creating conditions for transmitting a radio signal to the controller.

The controller, upon receiving a radio signal from the sensor, activates a servo that closes the taps and turns on a leak notification.

Place of installation of leakage sensors

Install sensors in the most probable occurrence leaks: under the washing machine, on the floor behind the toilet, bathroom water and sink. Connection of sensors to the control unit can be wired and wireless. Wireless is more convenient, but their performance cannot be controlled. Wired sensors are connected to the wire management unit, which can be somewhat inconvenient, but the controller "sees" the sensors and will send a warning signal if they are lost.

The control unit is placed on the wall in any convenient place, trying to reduce the length of the wires used during installation.

Shut-off valves are installed at the water inlet to the apartment immediately after the meters. The system can operate from normal electrical network 220V (which is considered unsafe) or (preferably) 12V power supply.

Which protection system to choose?

Leak protection systems are produced by many companies, but in our country the most widely used are Aquaguard, Aquastop, Neptun and Gidrolock.

Aquaguard

Aquaguard is an innovative water leakage protection system

The scope of delivery of the Aquaguard anti-leak system includes

• Main control box
• Gulf sensors
• Two taps with drives for cold and hot water
• External power supply

A distinctive feature of the controller is the possibility of its expansion. In this case, the device is assembled like a designer. So, for example, by adding a panel of sensors, you can increase their number to the desired number, by purchasing a radio unit, make a wireless system from a wired system, and by adding a GSM module, receive leak messages on your mobile phone. However, you can be content with the basic version and what is included in the package.

The device is equipped with an uninterruptible power supply on ultra drives, thanks to which you can be sure that in the event of a leak, the taps will be closed even on discharged batteries. Moreover, to resume the water supply, you do not need to urgently change the power source, just press the start button on the controller, and then calmly go for new batteries.

Connection of wired sensors parallel to each other. The number of them can be any. A pleasant moment is a lifetime warranty for sensors from the manufacturer and the possibility of free replacement of three sensors that are out of order.

Aquaguard system uses Ball Valves with low friction, for which it is enough to apply a slight force to close. The faucet is closed by a metal gear (in earlier models, the gears were made of plastic) driven by an electric motor mounted on the faucet body and connected to the controller.

To bring the engines into operation and close the taps, a radio signal from the control unit is required, which is sent by the leakage protection system when a corresponding signal is received from the water sensors.

The device of the sensor is quite simple and reliable: the body and the plate with contacts are made of fiberglass, the contacts are coated with immersion gold to protect against corrosion. To increase the reliability of the system, you can use a sensor with wire break protection, which allows the controller to more accurately determine the status of the sensors and inform about problems in the system in a timely manner.

The sensor is only triggered if the water level is above 1 mm. Protection against erroneous operation is a gap of 1 mm between the lower part of the sensor housing and the floor surface.

The radio sensor can be installed in two types: a simple one, which works only in case of a leak, and a remote sensor, by pressing the button of which you can turn off the taps at any time.

Neptune

The Neptun Leak Protection System is a Russian development manufactured by Special Engineering Systems.

The principle of its operation is similar to that of the Aquaguard: the delivery set also includes a control unit, two ball valves with servo drives and wired sensors. The difference is that the system only works when it is permanently connected to a 220 V power supply.

The operation of such a system is possible only if the sockets are grounded.

A nice addition to the Neptune system is the cleaning mode, by turning on which you can wash the floor for 45 minutes. big amount water without worrying about the leakage protection, as well as the choice of kits with taps not only ½ inch, but also ¾ inch.

Aquastop - protection against leaks

Aquastop uses unusual way leak detection. It does not have sensors in which contacts close under the action of water. But a sensor is installed that determines the water pressure. This sensor works on the principle of a pressure gauge - the higher the pressure, the stronger the effect on the valve. When the pressure in the hose or line is stable, the influence of the sensor is compensated by the internal spring and the valve is opened. When a hose breaks or a pipe bursts, the pressure in the device drops and the spring shuts off the water supply until the pressure is restored to normal.

The principle of operation of this device is simple. The special shape of the internal channel of this device reduces the throughput, due to which the pressure during normal water consumption (up to 10-12 liters per minute) practically does not change. When the hose suddenly breaks, the water supply increases greatly, the pressure at the outlet of the device drops sharply, however, remains unchanged at the inlet. This causes the valve to actuate. The valve response time does not exceed 10 seconds. This allows you to turn off the water, prevent the flood and the troubles caused by it - damage to the floor, walls, furniture and conflict with neighbors from below.

Aquastop is used as one of the elements of protection against water leaks. low throughput this device does not allow you to install it at the entrance to your home water supply network. If you open several faucets,

Aquastop will work and shut off the water supply. Therefore, it is used to protect end users - washing machines and dishwashers. This device is not afraid of water hammer and can withstand pressure up to 10 atmospheres. For his effective work water pressure must be at least 2 atmospheres. If the water pressure is less, then the pressure difference is not enough to operate the valve.

The cost of the device starts from 180 rubles. It is produced in both plastic and metal (most often steel) cases. Both ends of the device are threaded - internal at the inlet, external at the outlet. Thanks to this configuration, it is installed without any alterations in the gap between the pipe adapter and the hose suitable for the washing machine or dishwasher. Aquastop in plastic case used for cutting into polyethylene pipes. It is equipped with standard fittings at both ends, so it is enough to cut the pipe, put Aquastop on it and tighten the fixing nuts.

Gidrolock (Hydrolock)

The delivery of the Gidrolock anti-leakage system also includes two ball valves, water control sensors and a control unit.

If desired, you can choose a version of the protection system specifically designed for use in an apartment, in country house, in a public or industrial building, in a hotel or warehouse. The difference in the kits is in the number of water sensors and the number of connected taps.

The manufacturer's warranty for Hydrolock systems is 4 years.

As you can see, protecting yours from leaks, and yourself from the troubles associated with emergencies in the house, is not difficult, you just need to choose the right protection system.

Recently, buyers of washing machines are interested in whether specific models have leakage protection. Their demands are quite justified, since a proper security system can protect their premises and the dwelling of neighbors from below from flooding. If you take care of security in a timely manner and select an automatic machine with comprehensive protection, you can minimize the risks of a flood.

Washing machines with a weak level of protection can lead to a real flood

Why is the washing machine leaking?

There are many reasons. Of course, they all come down to factory defects or improper operation.

The most common types of leaks are:

It is advisable to operate the machine correctly. For example, always check pockets, do not place more than the norm of dirty laundry in the tank, put clothes with metal objects in special bags, and also clean the powder receiver regularly.

But there is another simple way to protect yourself from all kinds of leaks - install special protection or choose a laundry device with a drip tray and shut-off valves.

What could be the protection?

Today, it is difficult to find a unit on the washing machine market that does not have at least some protection against leaks. Although, ten years ago, a lot of washing machines were sold, in which such an opportunity was completely absent.

The design of the washing machine with a protection system

In the safety planets, there are 3 types of laundry machines:

1. No protection.
2. Partial protection (body only).
3. Complete protection.

Lack of protection is characteristic of budget options washer. They are standardly equipped with a hose that draws and supplies water from water pipe. Such laundry devices may not have a bottom at all, or there may be a regular closure plastic panel. In the event that the hose becomes unusable (wears out or breaks through), all the water will spill onto the floor.

Therefore, after the washing cycle is completed, it is required to manually close the water supply tap or additionally install special valves.

But there are a number of washing machines whose manufacturers have taken care to minimize your hassle about installing a separate protection system.

Full leak protection is available from well-known brands such as:

• Bosch;
• miele;
• Siemens;
• Electrolux;
• Zanussi;
• Asko;
• Ariston.

Interesting moment: Bosch washing machines are equipped with a double magnetic valve, which is located on a patented hose, consisting of two layers. If suddenly a machine with full protection against leaks when confirming the fact correct installation leaks, the manufacturer bears all the costs of repairing the premises in the event of a flood.

AquaStop protection

Partial leak protection

Unfortunately, such a system will save only if you detect a leak in time. In the event that you are distracted by household chores or gone to the store, a flood can significantly spoil the renovation in your bathroom and neighbors' apartment.

Partial leak protection

Partial protection against leaks involves supplying the washing machine with a special tray in which liquid will accumulate. During assembly, a float with an electric switch is installed in the plastic or polystyrene tank itself. As soon as a large number of water will fill the tank, the float will rise up and the switch will work. Then a signal is given to the electronics, after which the equipment switches to emergency mode - the washing process is completed, and the pump begins to pump out water.

But, as you understand, if you don’t notice the problem in time or if for some reason the switch doesn’t work, the water will overflow and continue to confidently flood the bathroom or kitchen.

Hoses with special valves for your safety

As we mentioned above, automatic machines with partial protection are called so because their security system works after the water gets inside. Imagine this situation: your hose breaks outside the washer? Of course, all the water from the intake sediment will immediately pour out.

Spring Hose

In this case, it is better to protect yourself twice by choosing a machine with full protection against leaks.

There are several types of protection placed on hoses:

The solenoid valve creates a special barrier in case of unauthorized outflow of water. The protective mechanism is triggered when:

• hose breaks;
• the liquid just seeps out;
• the tank is leaking;
• foam comes out due to excess powder;
• pipeline is damaged.

AquaStop protection system: high level of leak detection

When choosing a washing machine, it is advisable to ask a consultant if the machine has full protection against leaks. She suggests:

You can go in a slightly different way. Purchase a laundry device with partial leakage protection and separately connect a hose with an electromagnetic system for shutting off the water supply when taken from pipes.

By giving preference to machines with an already built-in AquaStop system, for little money you deprive yourself of the problems associated with finding a quality fixture and installing it. It seems to us that this option would be more appropriate (although you should always compare the cost of the hose and its installation in advance with the cost of machines with partial protection, but with the same parameters as washers with AquaStop).

Important point: Comprehensive protection against leaks also provides for emergency pumping of water, which is triggered when, for some reason, closing valves do not come into action.

Self-installed protection system

If your washing machine is not equipped with a protection system, do not despair, because you can install it yourself. You should purchase the AquaStop system, which is produced by the Italian company OMB Saleri. The cost of the device is low - only a few thousand.

The water inlet hose is equipped with a special fitting that works in the event of a strong flood. If the water seeps out a little, then the mechanism will not be able to recognize the accident, and the valve will not close. So the risks are still there.

Aquastop protection

There are also separate liquid sensors that can be placed in the bathroom. If water is detected on the floor, the sensor diodes send a signal to the controller, after which an emergency shutdown of the cold and hot water tap occurs.

Additional fluid sensors
The principle of operation of liquid sensors

So the security system washing machine mainly comes down to protection against leaks. For this purpose, washing machines are equipped with special trays and valves that are supplied with the inlet hose. Leak protection can be full or partial. It is better to protect yourself and choose a washing machine with an integrated system equipped with a tray with a float and solenoid valves.

The inlet hose of the washing machine, which supplies tap water, may leak during operation of the machine, so it must be specially protected against water leakage. Modern washing machines are equipped with such protection - the AquaStop system. Its action is aimed at preventing the unexpected appearance of water in the body of the device. In washing machines and dishwashers of various brands, the leak protection system has other names, such as AquaSafe, Aqua Alarm and Waterproof, however, the Aquastop principle in machines different models and brands are almost the same.

To prevent leakage, which can cause flooding of your own premises and neighbors, the faucet that supplies cold water into the drum of washing or dishwashing equipment, it is equipped with an Aquastop protective valve. It can automatically turn off the water supply when an emergency occurs in the washing equipment connection system due to a leak. The protection system is triggered and gives an alarm signal to the owner of the equipment.

1. Mechanical valves "Aquastop".
2. Water blockers Water Block.
3. Powder type Aquastop hose if absorbent is present.
4. Embedded system with partial protection from a float switch equipped with a switch.
5. A built-in full blockade system when the Aquastop hose is connected, which has a solenoid valve to work with the partial blockage system.
6. Complete anti-leakage system with external sensors.

Working with a mechanical valve

The Aquastop mechanical protection valve works on the principle that it reacts with a sharp change in pressure at those moments when the hose breaks or mechanical damage occurs. In such situations, the blocker valve, which is located inside the flexible pipe, mechanically the flow of fluid to the area where a leak is detected is blocked. The valve allows a certain amount of liquid to pass through, creating an operating state, because the spring inside the hose has the parameters of the calculated stiffness factor when a larger volume is not allowed.

In situations where pressure builds up, the outlet can be completely blocked by the guard. In situations of minor leaks in threaded connections or small leaks in the inlet hose, the pressure will change little, so the protection may not see the liquid and not give an alarm.

Water stop valve (blocker) Water Block

This protection system differs from others in the principle of operation and consists in the fact that it takes into account the volume of the passed liquid that passes through the pipe with the valve. The blocking is installed immediately at the very beginning on the inlet hose for the water supply to the washing equipment. It has marks that regulate the desired volume of liquid, indicated by strokes with a measure of 5 liters.

The lock kit includes a special key with which you can set the volume that is required for one full wash. If the consumption of one full cycle of the washing machine is 50 liters, you should set the regulator to the number 10. The protection unit will not let in an excess amount of liquid, because the program accurately determines the amount of water, and in this case the system will block its excess when supplied. It will respond to even minor leaks, because it takes into account the volume of fluid flow passed through it, and this is its advantage.

Powder absorbent in Aquastop hose

This type of protection is a two-layer sleeve. The protection is inside the outer sleeve made of corrugated plastic. The purpose of the device is to retain fluid when the inner sleeve is damaged. Running water is supplied through the inner hose while the device itself is inside the outer hose. If the inner tube is damaged, water collects in the middle of the outer flexible hose, it suddenly fills up, the liquid rushes to the automation unit. It is located in the area where the hose is connected to the water supply.

Two types of similar hoses work in this system. The first is equipped with an automatic lock, which is connected to the installed plunger. It, in turn, is connected to the emergency shut-off valve and the absorbent located there, from which a special spring is connected to the plunger. When liquid hits the absorbent, it expands, and at this moment the plunger with a fixed spring follows the absorbent, while the plunger reliably closes the inlet of the hole from which the liquid is supplied.

Magnets are built into the second type of hoses. The stable position of the plunger, according to the principle of operation, does not depend on the action of the spring, but on that created by two permanent plates magnetic field when like poles of the magnets are facing each other. If the absorbent in the fuse is in a dry state, then the size of the distance between the plates is small, it does not increase, and therefore their mutual repulsive force is large, which keeps the equilibrium system.

When in contact with liquid, the absorbent expands and the magnets weaken, in this case the magnetic field weakens and becomes insignificant, the plunger will be able to block the flow of pressurized liquid from the faucet plumbing system. The Aquastop lock is considered reliable only on the hose itself. In a situation where a leak appears on the threaded connections or water begins to flow in the equipment case, the protection will not respond.

Partial protection system with float switch and switch

If water has flowed in the area where the pipe with the machine is connected using a threaded connection, or a leak has appeared in the equipment case, then liquid begins to appear in the lower pan. "Aquastop" is a spring with a valve in a thick hose for water supply. A float sensor is installed on the completely sealed bottom of the electric machine, which, when a small amount of water suddenly enters, if there is a rise above a certain mark, pops up. At this moment, the sensor switch located in the base is instantly activated, an alarm is given that a breakdown has occurred. The movement of water stops instantly.

The blocker stops the water while turning on the pump, which will pump the liquid out of the body and tank. After the reasons for the appearance of liquid in the housing are eliminated (for example, the inlet hose is replaced), it is recommended to dry the float sensor and microswitch well, and then the protection will work again. If, due to the destruction of the pipe or the appearance of a leak in threaded connection liquid does not appear in the sump, the interlock protection will not respond to damage to the machine.

Full electromagnetic type protection with combined partial protection

This system consists of two blocking systems at the same time: partial protection and a two-layer Aquastop hose with electromagnetic valves on a special block, which are switched on in series, can be electric or pneumatic.

The system works according to the following principle: if a damaged pipe leaks through the drain into the lower pan, when the set level is reached, the liquid will raise the sensor in the form of a float, as described earlier. This protection system is considered the most reliable, but it does not control the occurrence of leakage at the threaded connection.

Full protection with external sensors

This system works on the principle smart home” and is a special control unit with connected external sensors that will quickly respond to a leak. Sensors should be placed in all places where breakthrough is allowed.

Many modifications have light and sound alerts, they can send SMS messages to the owner. The system may not work if the floor in the house is uneven, because the water flows to the side and does not touch the float.

Plumbing emergencies - horrible dream any homeowner. In a house or in an apartment, it is equally unpleasant and costly. Only in the case of an apartment, the need for conversations with neighbors from below and the costs of eliminating their losses are added. But here the situation is better in the sense that even if you are not at home, the neighbors below will achieve a shutdown of the water as soon as they notice signs of a flood. In the case of a private house, equipment that threatens to leak usually stands in seldom visited places - in basements, specially equipped pits. As long as the owner decides to visit the equipment, he can come to the pool. To avoid such situations, protection against water leaks is necessary. Although this equipment is not cheap, it is becoming more and more popular. The cost of acquiring and installing it is many times less than the losses that a flood can bring.

What is an anti-flood and how does water leakage protection work?

The anti-flood system consists of several elements: sensors for the presence of water, electrically controlled taps or valves, and a control unit. Sensors for monitoring the presence of water are placed in places of the most likely leaks. Electric taps are placed on risers with water, in key places of the water supply and heating system - in order to minimize the amount of spilled water in the event of an accident. Crane drives and sensors are connected to the control and management unit (controller). It processes the signals from the sensors and, in the event of an emergency signal, supplies power to the cranes. Those work by blocking the flow of water / coolant. Here, in a nutshell, is how water leakage protection works.

These systems are installed both for water supply - hot and cold, and for heating. After all, an accident in the heating system is probably even worse than on the water supply - hotter water causes more damage, and can also cause serious burns. In general, in order for flood protection to be effective, it is necessary to think carefully about the installation locations of sensors and taps.

Where to place sensors

Since water protection is designed to protect against flooding, it is necessary to place sensors in all places where water is most likely to appear. It often happens that the system worked with a delay precisely because of the wrong location of the sensors. By the time the water reached the sensor, it poured out a lot. Based on the experience of the owners, the following places can be recommended for installing water leakage sensors:

When installing water leakage sensors, try to position them so that water hits them first. For example, to control a faucet in the kitchen, you need to put the sensor not under the cabinet, but in the cabinet - under the siphon or somewhere in the area. If something happens to the faucet, the water will first be in the closet and only then will flow under it.

If it is necessary to control leaks in household appliances- washing machine, dishwasher - put sensors under appliances. Not next to, but directly next to the connection point of the drain hose.

Where to put taps / electric valves

With the installation of cranes is not easy. Specific installation locations vary by system design. If this small apartment with one or two risers - cold and hot water - everything is simple. We cover the outlets and everything. In more complex systems you have to think over the place of installation of electric cranes.

In apartments

If the water supply is centralized, the taps of the system against leaks are placed at the entrance to the apartment / house. It is much better if the taps are up to the counter and filter. But with such an arrangement, operational services may not agree. They usually require an electric faucet after the meter. In this case, in the event of a leak, the junction of the meter and filter always remains under pressure. It will be impossible to eliminate the leakage at these points. You can stand your ground, but you have to prove your point of view.

Advice! Before installing a leakage protection system, contact your management company and find out if there will be problems when sealing the meters if electric valves are installed in front of them.

In some layouts, the apartment may have four risers - two cold and two warm water. In this case, there are two solutions - more correct and more economical. That's right - put two modules, each of which will serve its own zone. This is more convenient, since an accident will happen only on one of the risers / devices and it is unreasonable to turn off the opposite part. But two modules are double costs. To save money, you can put one control unit that will shut off the taps for 4 risers. But in this case, do not forget that you will have to pull the wires through the entire apartment.

In the case of heating, too, not everything is simple. In most of the high-rise buildings, vertical wiring is made. This is when a riser passes in every (or almost every) room and one or two radiators are fed from it. It turns out that at least one tap must be installed for each outlet - for supply. But then the water that is contained in the radiator and pipes will flow out. This, of course, is not so much, but sometimes a couple of liters is enough for the neighbors below to have a stain on the ceiling. On the other hand, putting two taps on each radiator is too expensive.

In a private house

In order to prevent the pump from pumping water in case of an accident, it is necessary to use a water leakage protection controller with a power relay. If power is supplied to the pump through the contacts of this relay, simultaneously with the signal to close the ball valves or valves, the power to the pump will be turned off. Why not just turn off the power to the pump? Because in this case, all the water that is in the system can pour out into the resulting gap. And that's usually a lot.

To understand in which places of the water supply system of a private house it is necessary to install taps to prevent water leaks, you need to study the diagram. Most often, shut-off valves with electric drives are installed after pumping station and on the boiler.

Heating is a little more difficult. Do not block the movement of the coolant if it is impossible to immediately extinguish the boiler. That is, in systems with solid fuel boilers, it is possible to set water leakage control only if it does not block the circulation of the coolant. If there is a small circulation circuit, it is possible to set the taps so that this small circuit is working and the rest of the system is turned off. If a heat accumulator is installed in the system, it is necessary to install taps so that water does not spill out of it. These are large volume containers - at least 500 liters, and usually many times more. If all the liquid pours out, it will not seem enough.

In heating systems with automated boilers, taps can block circulation. If the water leakage protection works and cuts off the circulation, the boiler will stop due to overheating. It's not exactly normal, but it's not an emergency either.

Some technical points

Wired sensors are usually supplied with 2 meter cables. Electric ball valves are sold with the same cable length. This is not always enough. You can increase the length using the cable recommended by the manufacturer. Brands are usually indicated in the instruction manual. Only upon purchase. Unfortunately, very often the actual diameter is much smaller than the declared one.

• for wired sensors, a shielded twisted pair cable with a core cross section of at least 0.35 mm² is suitable;
• for cranes - power cable in two-layer insulation with a core cross section of at least 0.75 mm².

It is desirable to make the connection serviceable. That is, if you are laying wires in a wall or floor, the connection must be made in a junction box. - any, reliable (soldering, contactors of any type, since the equipment is low-current). It is better to lay wires in walls or in the floor in or pipes. In this case, it will be possible to replace the damaged cable without opening the strobe.

Protection against water leaks: parameters and selection criteria

Deciding on the number of sensors and stopcocks is not so difficult, especially since many systems easily allow you to expand the area of ​​​​control. It is only important not to exceed the maximum allowable number of equipment. But choosing a manufacturer is much more difficult - you can’t change it. Below we present the most popular systems on Russian market: , " " And " ".

Nutrition

First, let's look at how power is supplied to different parts of the flood protection system:

• On the control unit, the voltage must be constant.
• Cranes with an electric drive are powered only for the period of operation - maximum - for 2 minutes (Hydroloc).
• For wired sensors - only for the period of status polling (very short period of time).
• Wireless sensors are battery operated.

The water leakage protection can work with 220V, 12V and 4.5V. Generally speaking, 12V or lower is the safest.

Food types

Some systems are built in such a way that the control unit is powered by 220 V, while the electric cranes and sensors are supplied with a safe voltage of 12 V or less. In other variants, 220 V can be supplied to the taps (some of the Neptune variants). Voltage is applied for a short time - only at the moment when it is necessary to turn off the water. This occurs after the detection of an accident and periodically - to check and maintain the health of the system. The rest of the time, the taps are de-energized. Which option suits you best is up to you.

Also pay attention to the presence of a backup power supply. If you have your own backup power system (batteries, generator), this parameter can be omitted. Otherwise, having a backup power supply is highly desirable. And you need to look at how long the equipment can work offline. In this sense, systems operating from 12 V are much more practical: if you wish, you can install a battery with suitable parameters and thereby extend the system's offline performance. Although, some systems (Hydrolock, for example) on backup power(rechargeable batteries) can work up to a year. During this time, the electricity will definitely turn on ...

Electric cranes: which are better

Let's say right away that there is protection against water leaks based on valves and ball valves. Ball valves are more reliable. They cost more, but they work much more reliably. When choosing, take the one whose water is blocked by ball valves, not valves. It's without options.

But ball valves are different. Here are the requirements they must meet:

• Made from brass or stainless steel. Of these metals, there should be cases, rods and locking balls. Only in this case they will serve for a long time.
• Cranes are full bore. This means that in the open state, the cross section of the valve is not less than the cross section of the pipe on which it is installed. In this case, they do not interfere with the flow.

Ball valves "Neptune" can be recognized by the presence of a lever that makes it easy to shut off the water in manual mode

All market leaders - Aquastorage, Hydrolok and Neptun - use only such cranes. They can be produced different firms but made from quality metal. If the cheaper kits don't list the material or type of faucet (full bore or not), look elsewhere.

Durability and closing time

We also need to talk about the parameters of electric drives. How reliable and durable they are depends on how reliable the protection against water leaks and how efficient the system is. Therefore, the gearbox and drive gears must be made of durable and reliable material. The most durable material that can be used here is metal. If we talk about the most famous systems, the following situation is observed on this item:

• In the Hydrolock system, the gearboxes and gears are made of metal.
• In the Aquaguard, the gears are made of metal in the latest versions of the system, the gearbox has remained plastic.
• Neptune does not cover drive materials.

Another important characteristic is the closing time of ball valves. In theory, the sooner the water supply is shut off during an accident, the better. Here the undisputed leader is Aquastorage - ball valves close in 2.5-3 seconds. But this speed is achieved:

• installation additional gaskets, which reduces the friction of the ball, but increases the risk of leaks;
• a small torque, and the small force applied when closing the tap can result in the fact that if a foreign object (sand, scale, etc.) gets in or if it is overgrown with salts, the tap simply does not close.

Ball electric crane "Aquastorage Expert-20". Input voltage 4.5 to 5.5 V

Closing force and manual mode

If we talk about the magnitude of the torque, Hydrolock water leakage protection is the leader here. Its electric drives can develop force up to 450 kg/m. This is a very large indicator, but large-section cranes have such parameters, which are not used in apartments and houses. Nevertheless, half-inch and inch ones are also very powerful - they can develop a force of up to 100 kg / m. Moreover, the applied force increases stepwise - if necessary, increases from nominal to maximum.

And this is Hydrolock's trademark trick - a crane breaks a pencil ... Impressive!

There is one more point: the ability to shut off the electric valve in manual mode. Aquawatch and Hydrolock have parity in this regard: you need to remove the drive by unscrewing a few bolts (Hydrolock has 2, Aquawatch has 4), then manually turn the valve. Neptune is ahead in this regard: there is a lever on its drives, by turning which you manually open or close the water. But these cranes are equipped with the most expensive of the kits.

Faucet Neptun Bugatti Pro 12 B 1/2″ with a lever on the body. If the drive housing is green, then the power supply is 12 volts. For faucets rated for 220 volts, the drive housing is blue

Features of the work algorithm

The principle of operation of any protection against water leakage is the same: when an alarm occurs, it shuts off the water supply and turns on the alarm. In this, all systems are similar, but there are certain features that some like, others do not.

The first feature is related to the processing of signals from sensors and cranes. Some systems monitor the integrity of the wires that go to taps and wired sensors. In addition, if there are wireless sensors, they are polled regularly. This is all great and such systems are more reliable, but the reaction to a “missing” sensor or a faulty wire can be different:

• on the Hydrolock control panel, the alarm for the loss of sensors or malfunction of taps lights up, but the water does not shut off;
• The water watchman, if any of the sensors or taps are lost, shuts off the water;
• at Neptune, only the response of the sensors is controlled and, based on the results, an alarm lights up without specifying the location.

Here everyone chooses for himself which of the options suits him best. Both ways of reacting are not ideal, so there is no single answer.

The second parameter for choosing a leak protection system is the frequency of checking the performance of taps. Because we don't have much water best quality, with a long idle time, the shut-off ball can “overgrow” with salts or, as they say, “become boiled”. To prevent this from happening, the controllers periodically “move” the cranes. Periodicity is different:

• protection against water leaks Gidrolock (Gidrolock) tests once a week;
• any Aquaguard controller turns ball valves once every two weeks;
• some variants of Neptune do not have this function, there are those that open / close the taps once every two weeks.

Some fear that faucet performance checks will find them in the shower. Of course, it is not pleasant to be soapy without water, but none of the owners has yet complained of such cases. So it's not as dangerous as it seems.

Some features of popular systems

In order to somehow highlight their protection against water leaks, manufacturers are trying to increase reliability or come up with other moves. It is impossible to systematize these features, but it is better to know about them when choosing.

Features of one block

At different manufacturers one control unit can control a different number of devices. So it doesn't hurt to know.

• One Hydrolock controller can serve a large number of wired or wireless sensors (200 and 100 pieces, respectively) and up to 20 ball valves. This is great - at any time you can install additional sensors or put a few more cranes, but not always such a reserve of capacity is in demand.
• One Akastorgo controller can serve up to 12 wired sensors. To connect wireless, you need to install an additional unit (designed for 8 pieces of "Aquaguard Radio"). To increase the number of wired - put another module. This modular extension is more pragmatic.
• Neptune has blocks of control different power. The most inexpensive and simple are designed for 2 or 4 cranes, for 5 or 10 wired sensors. But they lack a crane health check and no backup power source.

As you can see, everyone's approach is different. And these are just the leaders. There are even smaller campaigns and Chinese firms (where to be without them), which either repeat one of the above plans, or combine several.

Additional functions

Additional - not always unnecessary. For example, for those who are often on the road, the ability to control cranes from a distance is far from superfluous.

• Hydrolock and Aquatorozh have the ability to turn off water remotely. For this, a special button is placed at the front door. Come out for a long time - press, turn off the water. Aquawatch has two versions of this button: radio and wired. Hydrolock has only wired. The Aquastorge radio button can be used to determine the “visibility” of the wireless sensor installation location.
• Hydrolock, Aquaguard and some variants of Neptune can send signals to the dispatch service, security and fire alarm, can be built into the "smart home" system.
• Hydrolock and Aquaguard check the integrity of the wiring to the taps and their position (some systems, not all). In Hydrolock, the position of the locking ball is controlled by an optical sensor. That is, when checking in the tap there is no voltage. Aquaguard has a contact pair, that is, at the time of checking, there is voltage. Protection against water leaks Neptune also monitors the position of taps using a contact pair.

Hydrolock can be controlled by GSM module- by SMS (commands for switching on and off). Also, in the form of text messages, signals can be sent to the phone about accidents and “disappearances” of sensors, about cable breaks to electric cranes and from a malfunction.

Being always aware of the state of your home is a useful option

On the issue of reliability: power and other points

Reliable operation does not only depend on the reliability of cranes and controllers. Much depends on the power supply, on how long each of the blocks can work offline.

• Aquawatch and Hydrolock have redundant power supplies. Both systems shut off the water before the standby power supply is fully discharged. Neptune has batteries only for the last two models of controllers, and then the taps do not close when discharged. The rest - earlier and less expensive models - are powered by 220 V and have no protection.
• Neptune's wireless sensors operate at a frequency of 433 kHz. It happens that the control unit “does not see” them through the partitions.
• If the batteries in the Hydroloc's wireless sensor run out, an alarm lights up on the controller, but the taps do not close. The signal is formed a few weeks before the battery is completely discharged, so there is time to change it. In a similar situation, Aquaguard shuts off the water. By the way, the Hydrolock battery is soldered. So changing it is not easy.
• Aquawatch has a lifetime warranty on any sensors.
• Neptune has wired sensors installed "flush" with the finishing material.

We have considered all the features of the three most popular manufacturers of water leakage protection systems. In short, the worst thing about Aquastorage is a plastic gearbox on the drive, while Hydrolock has a large system power and, accordingly, the price. Neptune - Inexpensive systems are powered by 220 V, do not have a backup power source and do not check the performance of cranes.

Naturally, there are Chinese leak protection systems, but they should be chosen with care.