Do I need a plumber to install the WaterCop valve?
It is important to make sure that installation complies with local building codes therefore we recommend that a certified and licensed plumber install the WaterCop control valve.
How many water sensors can I use?
The WaterCop Classic system can support between 1-2 hardwired sensors and an unlimited number of leak and low temperature sensors. WaterCop Pro can support between 1-8 hard-wired sensors and up to 45 wireless sensors. As duals, that is 90 points of leak detection and don’t forget the rope sensors that can cover even more area. Place sensors near or under washing machines, water heaters, icemakers, dishwashers, humidifiers, sinks, toilets, and other areas that are most likely to be the source of water leaks. Property owners or installers should periodically test sensors with water to ensure proper placement, power supply and communication with the WaterCop valve.
What happens to the WaterCop during a power outage?
The WaterCop Classic valves will remain in the position prior to loss of power and retain that position when power is restored. WaterCop Pro is equipped with a safety feature that will close the valve once power is restored after an outage and display a safe mode message. This feature can be disabled so the valve will remain in position prior to loss of power.
How much water must be present for a flood sensor to sense a leak?
It takes only a few ounces of water contacting the sensor to activate the valve. The sensor must be properly placed in an advantageous location to detect leaks and puddling at the earliest possible stages of a leak event. Please refer to the limitations of the system and the Owner/Installation Manual for sensor placement instructions and suggestions.
Where should I install the WaterCop control valve?
The WaterCop control valve is designed to be installed on the main incoming water line. The valve should be fitted upstream from where the water system begins to branch off to other appliances and downstream from pressure regulators and water meters. It is also important to mount the valve so that the property owner has ready access to the face of the WaterCop actuator (or Control Panel) to be able to reset the system in the event it has been tripped. Additionally, the valve should be fitted into a location on the main line so that it does not interfere with flow to fire suppression and irrigation systems. Property owners should periodically cycle the valve (close/open) to help prevent possible water deposit build-up and ensure proper operation.
How long will the batteries in my sensors last?
A pair of standard AA alkaline batteries for Classic and AAA alkaline batteries for Pro could operate a sensor for about 3-5 years, assuming the system was never tripped by a leak. The sensor will sound a low battery warning before to the batteries going completely dead.
WaterCop Pro sensors will send a signal to the Control Panel before going completely dead, close the valve, and display what sensor is dead on the Control Panel, indicating a sensor is no longer functioning. A/C adapters are available for added convenience.
Batteries should be tested every year. Fresh batteries should be installed in any sensor that has detected a water leak and activated the system. After responding to a leak event please ensure that the sensor is and its installation location are completely dry prior to replacing the batteries and reinstalling the sensor.
Property owners or installers should periodically test sensors with water to ensure proper placement, power supply and communication with the WaterCop valve.
What is the maximum range between the WaterCop sensors and the WaterCop control valve?
The WaterCop sensors have a maximum transmission range of up to 200 feet (clear line of sight). The actual and effective working range is usually less than this maximum and will vary from installation to installation. A sensor signal repeater is available to bridge transmission gaps as needed. Property owners should periodically test sensors with water to ensure proper placement, power supply, and communication with the WaterCop valve.
Can the WaterCop work with my security or home automation system?
WaterCop systems are equipped with auxiliary input/output contacts and can be wired into your existing home automation system (wiring not included). Consult your security system manual or installation professional for details on other systems.
Does WaterCop help me qualify for a discount on my homeowner’s insurance premiums?
WaterCop helps to effectively reduce the catastrophic damage caused by common plumbing leaks. This greatly reduces the chance of needing to make one of the most common types of home insurance claims – internal water damage loss. Contact your insurance agent directly to see if they offer discounts for emergency automatic water shut-off systems or security system enhancements such as the WaterCop system.
How can I turn off my water supply manually using the WaterCop?
You could use the control buttons on the face of the WaterCop control valve/Control Panel or you could use the existing manual shut-off valve to turn off your water for needed repairs. Our water control wall switch allows you to turn off your water from a convenient location with just the push of a button and is great for Classic controls valves located in crawl spaces or basements.
For remote open/close control of the water supply use the WaterCop SmartConnect. This device, when properly configured, will allow remote control through an app where you can also set up text and/or email notifications for real-time alerts from your WaterCop system. A smartphone or tablet is required with a 2.4 GHz enabled network at the property.
Does the WaterCop protect against frozen or burst pipes?
Although the WaterCop system cannot prevent your pipes from freezing, optional temperature sensors can shut off your water in the event the temperature near/on indoor pipes equipped with these sensors drops below a preset temperature. WaterCop Classic wireless low temperature sensors clip on the pipe and are preset to trip at approximately 34˚ F. WaterCop Pro wireless sensors all have ambient temperature sensing built in to detect low air temperature in the area. The trip point is approximately 45˚ F.
Can the WaterCop system be installed outdoors?
The WaterCop Classic and Pro both have an outdoor option for properties without access to an interior main water supply. Those part numbers contain a ‘W’ for weatherproof (ex. WPK50W).