Device Shuts Water Off If Pipe Springs Leak

Device Shuts Water Off If Pipe Springs Leak FARM HOME Bathroom 6-5-33 A broken or leaky water pipe or hose can do a lot of damage, particularly if you're away on vacation or for the day. To help prevent such damage, Linke Mfg., of Denver, Col, has developed the new Waterguard. When its sensors detect a trickle of water, the device automatically closes a valve in the main water line, keeping it closed as long as water is present. The company recommends placing the sensors under dishwashers, water heaters, sinks and anywhere else a potential water problem exists. "Humidity and extremely cold weather don't affect the sensors," says Carle Linke, sales manager. "Just one teaspoon of water is enough to complete the circuit and shut off the water. The amount of water that it takes to trigger the alarm could be increased by placing the sensors off the floor on a piece of wood, or on a brick." "The unit is fairly easy to install," notes Linke. "A solenoid valve installs in the existing water line. To install, shut the water off, cut the pipe apart and install the valve. You can also install the solenoid in branches off the main line, such as above a water heater. The solenoid plugs into a controller switch which plugs into a 110 outlet. The sensors wire to the controller switch with 18 ga. wire. The sensor is a 2 1/2 in. by 3 in. piece of plastic with two, 1/4 in. pieces of metal inserted that act as the actual sensors. Water touching both metal pieces automatically shuts the solenoid valve. When the water no longer completes the circuit, the valve opens. Additional sensors cost $5.90. For more information, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Linke Mfg. Co., P.O. Box 59, Contract Station #27, Denver, Col. 80215 (ph 303 237-7531).

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