Detecting leaks (quickly!) is essential to protecting your home and savings. In-line smart water security devices that monitor your entire home’s plumbing can save thousands on home insurance claims. They detect leaks immediately and automatically shut off the home’s water to prevent catastrophic damage. 

So, why don’t these come standard with every home? 

They don’t come cheap. First, there’s the device itself. In addition, most companies that sell them recommend professional installation by a licensed plumber. This can add on some hundred dollars to the total cost, not to mention any accessories that may be necessary to meet the needs of the device (i.e., extension cords, wifi boosters, etc.). 

Here at Flo by Moen, we aim to empower every homeowner to protect themselves from water damage, loss, and costly consequences. To help you get started, we’re sharing our biggest secrets for saving money while investing in smart water security. 

There are lots of ways to save money on leak detection.

Our recommendation? Let your insurance company pay for it. 

Insurance companies may PAY to install a leak detection device in YOUR home - Let them!

Yes, you read that right. Insurance companies may pay their customers to install a leak detection system in their homes. 

Why? Insurance companies have a major interest in lowering the cost of hefty insurance claims made by their customers. Leak detection systems, like Flo by Moen, do exactly that. We’re actually proven to save thousands of dollars on homeowners’ insurance claims every year. 

Not only will insurance companies often help with the costs of purchasing the system, many will even go the extra step to ensure that it actually gets installed. This can be done in different ways, from reimbursing the cost to the homeowner directly, to collaborating with leak detection companies to curate a specific product for its homeowners that discounts the cost of either the device, installation, or both! It’s a win-win for everyone.

Insurance companies also have other ways to incentivize homeowners to adopt a leak detection system in their homes, besides reducing the setup cost. Each is different, but many offer additional discounts on premiums when you install a smart water monitoring system. Device manufacturers may even offer deductible reimbursements. At Flo by Moen, with our optional FloProtect Plan, users can rely on a we-pay-$5,000 deductible guarantee in the event of unforeseen water damage. 

Don’t forget about the cost of installation while shopping different brands

Total-home leak monitoring and detection systems like the Flo by Moen Smart Water Shutoff or Phyn Plus must be installed on the main water line, which involves cutting the pipe to insert the device. If you haven’t had regular maintenance, installation can also be an opportunity to gain insight into other aspects that may need special attention. 

Installation varies in price from state to state, plumber to plumber, and job to job. Fees can range anywhere from $200 to $800, which is in addition to the price of the device itself. Not to mention that some plumbers will request a site visit before the installation appointment to be able to determine the exact installation needs and cost (at minimum, this will add a trip charge fee). 

Here are some factors to consider when estimating the cost of installation:

Device size

Leak detection devices vary in size, which can make it easier or more difficult when it comes to fitting on your main water line. The larger the device, the longer the length of pipe required for installation on the main water line. If you take a look at where the device will be installed, you can try to estimate if it will be a clean cut-and-simply-insert, or if additional pipe (“S” or “U”) looping will be required. Look closely at the dimensions of leak detection devices to better understand what installation costs for your home.

To give you a better sense, let’s look at the Flo by Moen Smart Water Shutoff and Phyn Plus as an example. 

As you can see in the table above, Flo by Moen offers different device sizes (fitting pipes from ¾” to 1-¼” wide), while Phyn offers only one size of its Phyn Plus device that is recommended for pipes not wider than 1-¼”). Flo by Moen gives homeowners more options that can give those who have homes with smaller pipe sizes a less expensive option when it comes to the device and installation. 

Installation site

Smart water monitoring devices require more than just the device and piping. They often require connection to the internet and access to power. To meet the needs of the device, accessories may incur additional expenses. Does the installation site allow for seamless integration to the home’s wifi and power?

The installation site begins at the main line shutoff valve (smart water shutoffs will be installed after the already-existing shutoff valve, it is not a replacement). If the nearest power outlet is far from the site, you may need to purchase one or multiple extension cords. If there isn’t an outlet nearby that can be reached by an extension cord, an outlet installation by an electrician may be required. 

Having a strong WiFi connection is also important to keeping the system running. Some homes may require a WiFi extender to boost connectivity strength if the installation site receives a weak WiFi signal. This is one of the reasons why, if the main shutoff valve can only be accessed below ground, some additional work would likely be required to bring it above ground to install a smart water monitoring system.

SIGN UP for deals from the leak detection company

To get the greatest value at the lowest cost, sign up for email alerts from the leak detection company of your choice (or from multiple, if you are still shopping). That way you’ll know right away when a discount on the device is available. Promos happen all the time, and are the best way to get a great deal.

Another way you can pay less than the standard price is by looking into any referral programs the company may offer -- many do! If someone you know already has the shutoff of your choice, they can likely share a referral code with you to discount the cost of the device. The referral process can also be another way to get more information on the product, especially if it’s coming from someone you trust and relate to. Get their feedback while you’re at it, so you can make a more informed decision when it comes to purchasing water security.

Conclusion

Every smart water security configuration is unique, depending on the system you choose and its installation in your home. While some costs are fixed, there are different factors that can increase or decrease the entire system price when it comes to purchase and installation. There are steps you can take to save money when it comes to smart water security. Do your research to ensure your confidence as you make the decision to protect your home, one drip at a time.

With the varying cost of installation, if your insurance company has a deal that keeps installation at a lower bundled price, this is likely the smartest option. Additionally, you gain further assistance past the point of purchase from both your insurance provider and the manufacturer as you complete the additional steps of installation -- in our experience, this support greatly improves the experience with the installation process.

If you are unsure if your insurance provider has any partnerships with companies selling smart water devices, pick up the phone and give them a call. Advocate for your safety and your savings -- remind them it is in their best interest, too. Interested in knowing if Flo by Moen has a deal with your insurance company? Chat us on our website or contact us at support@meetflo.com for more information.