FloodStop Water Heater Leak Detector Kit (Model FS1NPT)

1. Introduction

The FloodStop Water Heater Leak Detector Kit (Model FS1NPT) is an automatic water shut-off system designed to prevent water damage from leaks originating from your water heater. Upon detecting water, the system automatically closes the main water supply valve to the appliance and activates audible and visual alarms, providing immediate notification and protection.

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective installation, operation, and maintenance of your FloodStop system. Please read it thoroughly before beginning installation.

2. Safety Information

• Professional Installation Recommended: While designed for easy installation, plumbing and electrical work should ideally be performed by qualified professionals.
• Power Disconnection: Always disconnect power to the water heater and the FloodStop unit before performing any installation or maintenance.
• Water Shut-Off: Ensure the main water supply to the water heater is turned off before installing the valve.
• Electrical Safety: Do not expose the controller or power adapter to water. Use only the provided power adapter.
• Sensor Placement: Place the water sensor in an area where water would first accumulate in the event of a leak.
• Operating Temperature: Ensure the unit operates within recommended environmental conditions to prevent malfunction.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:

• FloodStop Controller Unit
• Motorized Ball Valve (1" NPT MIP x FIP)
• Water Sensor Pad
• Wall Adapter (115VAC/9VDC Power Supply)
• Mounting Screws and Anchors
• Optional: 4 AA Batteries (for backup power)

Image: All components of the FloodStop Water Heater Leak Detector Kit, including the controller, motorized valve, water sensor, and power adapter.

4. Setup and Installation

Installation typically takes approximately 20 minutes. For detailed plumbing instructions, refer to the official Installation Manual (PDF).

4.1. Valve Installation

1. Shut off Water Supply: Turn off the main water supply to your water heater.
2. Drain Water Heater: Partially drain the water heater to relieve pressure and prevent spills during valve installation.
3. Install Motorized Ball Valve: Install the 1" NPT motorized ball valve on the cold water inlet line of your water heater. Ensure the flow direction matches the arrow on the valve body. Use appropriate plumbing sealant (e.g., PTFE tape or pipe dope) on threaded connections.

Image: The FloodStop motorized ball valve in the open position, allowing water flow.

Image: The FloodStop motorized ball valve in the closed position, stopping water flow.

4.2. Controller Unit Mounting

1. Select Location: Choose a convenient location near the water heater, preferably on a wall, where the controller is easily accessible and visible.
2. Mount Controller: Use the provided screws and anchors to securely mount the FloodStop controller unit to the wall.

Image: The FloodStop controller unit mounted on a wall, showing its compact design and easy accessibility.

4.3. Sensor Placement

1. Position Sensor: Place the water sensor pad on the floor directly beneath or adjacent to the water heater, in a spot where any potential leak would first make contact.
2. Connect Sensor: Plug the sensor cable into the designated port on the FloodStop controller unit.

Image: Close-up of the FloodStop water sensor pad, designed to detect moisture.

4.4. Power Connection

1. Connect Valve to Controller: Plug the cable from the motorized ball valve into the corresponding port on the controller unit.
2. Insert Batteries (Optional): If desired, install 4 AA batteries into the battery compartment of the controller for backup power during outages.
3. Plug in Power Adapter: Connect the wall adapter to the controller unit and then plug it into a standard 115VAC electrical outlet.
4. Restore Water Supply: Slowly turn the main water supply back on to the water heater.

Image: The FloodStop power adapter, used to provide primary power to the controller unit.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Normal Operation

Once installed and powered, the FloodStop system is in standby mode. The "OPEN" indicator light on the controller should be illuminated, indicating the valve is open and water flow is permitted. The system continuously monitors the water sensor for leaks.

Image: The FloodStop controller unit displaying its status indicators, showing the current state of the system.

5.2. Leak Detection and Shut-Off

If the water sensor detects moisture, the FloodStop system will:

• Immediately close the motorized ball valve, stopping the water supply to the water heater. The "CLOSE" indicator light will illuminate.
• Activate an audible alarm (87 dB) to alert occupants.
• The "MUTE" button can be pressed to silence the audible alarm, but the valve will remain closed until manually reset.

5.3. Manual Operation and Reset

The controller unit has three buttons:

• OPEN: Press this button to manually open the valve and restore water flow. This can only be done if no leak is currently detected by the sensor.
• CLOSE: Press this button to manually close the valve and shut off the water supply.
• MUTE: Press this button to silence the audible alarm after a leak detection event.

5.4. System Test

It is recommended to test the system every six months to ensure proper functionality:

1. Ensure the system is powered and the valve is open.
2. Open a hot water tap in your home to create water flow.
3. Dribble a small amount of water onto the FloodStop sensor pad.
4. The system should detect the water, close the valve (stopping water at the tap), and sound the alarm.
5. Clean and dry the sensor pad. Press the "OPEN" button to reset the valve.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Sensor Cleaning

Periodically inspect and clean the water sensor pad. Wipe it down with a damp cloth or paper towel, then gently pat it dry. Avoid scrubbing the sensor pad to prevent damage to the circuit traces.

6.2. Battery Replacement (Optional)

If using AA batteries for backup power, it is advisable to replace them every six months, especially during system tests, to ensure reliable operation during power outages.

6.3. Valve Maintenance

The heavy-duty full port solid brass ball valve is designed to be maintenance-free under normal operating conditions.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Specifications

• Brand: FloodStop
• Model Number: FS1NPT
• Valve Size: 1" NPT MIP x FIP
• Power Source: AC/DC (115VAC/9VDC Wall Adapter), 4 AA Batteries (Optional Backup)
• Product Dimensions (Controller): Approximately 11.75" L x 7.75" W x 2.6" H
• Item Weight: 2.5 pounds
• Audible Alarm: 87 dB
• Control Method: Touch (Buttons on Controller)
• Sensor Technology: Water/Leak Sensor
• Mounting Type: Wall Mount
• Compatible Systems: INSTEON, X10, Building Maintenance Systems (BMS)
• Included Components: Water Sensor, Motorized Ball Valve, Wall Adapter, Controller Unit
• Voltage: 6V DC
• UPC/GTIN: 815361000121
• Compliance: AB1953, NSF 61 (lead-free), ICC-ES Listed (PMG-1511), IPC, IRC, UPC, National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPC)

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, or to purchase replacement parts, please contact IPS Corporation, the manufacturer of FloodStop products. Refer to the product packaging or the official FloodStop website for the most current contact details.

Manufacturer: IPS Corporation