Introduction
The HydroCheck WaterWatcher is a smart water leak detector designed to prevent major flooding and water damage in homes and basements. This device automatically sounds an alarm when water is detected and turns off the connected appliance, providing immediate protection against leaks. Manufactured in the USA, it features an enhanced sensor capable of detecting even the smallest traces of water, including pure water, making it ideal for various applications.
Key Features:
- Automatic Shutoff: Prevents major flooding and water damage by turning off the appliance when water is detected.
- Enhanced Sensor: Pinpoints the smallest water traces, including pure water, suitable for dehumidifiers and other applications.
- Manual Reset: Keeps appliances off until manually reset, ensuring issues are addressed before restarting.
- Versatile Compatibility: Works with dehumidifiers, aquariums, hydroponics, washing machines, well pumps, and more.
- Built-in Alarms & LED Indicators: Provides immediate audible and visual alerts upon leak detection.
Product Overview
Figure 1: HydroCheck WaterWatcher Leak Detector. The main control module with a power outlet and a connected circular water sensor.
Figure 2: Components of the WaterWatcher. Shows the control module (front and back) with LED indicator, power outlet, smart button, US plug, and the water sensor with 12ft sensor cables.
Setup and Installation
Follow these steps to properly set up your HydroCheck WaterWatcher Leak Detector:
- Unplug Appliance: Locate the appliance you wish to protect (e.g., washing machine, dehumidifier) and unplug its power cord from the wall outlet.
- Plug in WaterWatcher Control Module: Plug the HydroCheck WaterWatcher control module directly into the wall outlet. A single beep will sound, and the LED indicator on the module will turn solid green, indicating that the device is active and ready.
- Connect Appliance to WaterWatcher: Plug the power cord of your appliance into the power outlet located on the HydroCheck WaterWatcher control module.
- Position the Water Sensor: Place the circular water sensor, labeled "THIS SIDE UP," on the floor in the optimal location where a leak is most likely to occur. This should be near the base of the appliance, under a sink, or in any area prone to water accumulation. The sensor cable is 12 feet long, allowing for flexible placement.
Figure 3: Plugging the WaterWatcher control module into a wall outlet.
Figure 4: Connecting the appliance power cord to the WaterWatcher module.
Figure 5: Proper placement of the water sensor near a potential leak source.
Installation Video:
Video 1: HydroCheck WaterWatcher Installation with Washing Machine. This video demonstrates the step-by-step installation process for the WaterWatcher leak detector, specifically showing its setup with a washing machine.
Operating Instructions
The HydroCheck WaterWatcher operates automatically to protect your property from water damage.
Normal Operation:
When properly installed and no water is detected, the LED indicator on the control module will remain solid green, and power will be supplied to the connected appliance.
Leak Detection and Alarm:
In the event that the water sensor detects water, the WaterWatcher will immediately:
- Cut Power: Automatically turn off the power to the connected appliance.
- Sound Alarm: An audible alarm will sound (85 dB).
- Change LED Indicator: The LED indicator will change from solid green to flashing red.
Figure 6: The WaterWatcher detecting water on the floor and automatically shutting off the washing machine to prevent further damage.
Resetting the Device:
Once water is detected, the WaterWatcher will keep the appliance off and the alarm active until manually reset. To reset the device and silence the alarm:
- Address the Leak: First, resolve the source of the water leak and ensure the sensor is dry.
- Press Reset Button: Press the "Smart Button" located on the side of the WaterWatcher control module. This will silence the alarm and reset the device, returning the LED to solid green and restoring power to the appliance.
Figure 7: Pressing the Smart Button to silence the alarm and reset the WaterWatcher.
Maintenance
The HydroCheck WaterWatcher is designed for minimal maintenance. It features no cleaning needed and no moving parts, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Sensor Cleanliness: Ensure the water sensor remains free of excessive dust or debris that could impede its ability to detect water. A simple wipe with a dry cloth is sufficient if needed.
- Regular Testing: It is recommended to periodically test the device by placing a small amount of water on the sensor to ensure it functions correctly. Immediately dry the sensor after testing and reset the device.
Figure 8: Key features of the WaterWatcher, including "No Cleaning & Moving Parts" for easy maintenance.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on (no green LED, no beep). | No power from outlet; device malfunction. | Check the wall outlet with another device. Ensure the WaterWatcher is fully plugged in. If still no power, contact customer support. |
| Alarm sounds immediately upon plugging in, even without water. | Sensor is wet or damaged; internal fault. | Ensure the sensor is completely dry. Press the reset button. If the issue persists, the sensor or internal components may be damaged. Refer to warranty information. |
| Device does not alarm when water is present. | Sensor not making contact with water; sensor damaged; device malfunction. | Ensure the sensor is placed correctly and the water reaches the sensor contacts. Test with a small amount of water directly on the sensor. If it still fails, contact customer support. |
| Appliance does not turn off when alarm sounds. | Appliance not properly plugged into WaterWatcher; WaterWatcher outlet fault. | Verify the appliance is securely plugged into the WaterWatcher's outlet. Test the WaterWatcher's outlet by plugging in a different small appliance. If the issue persists, contact customer support. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | WaterWatcher |
| Brand | HydroCheck |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Wattage | 2.4 watts |
| Control Method | App (Note: Product description mentions "App", but functionality seems manual. Clarify if app control is available or if this is a generic spec.) |
| Mounting Type | Tabletop Mount |
| Sensor Technology | Contact Sensor |
| Alarm Rating | 85 dB |
| Item Weight | 14.4 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 2.75 x 2.5 x 3.5 inches (Control Module) |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Sensor Cable Length | 12 feet |
| Batteries Required | No |
Figure 9: Visual representation of key product specifications.
Applications
The HydroCheck WaterWatcher is versatile and can be used to protect various appliances and areas from water damage:
- Washing Machines: Prevents overflow or hose burst damage.
- Dehumidifiers: Ideal for detecting leaks from condensate pans, especially with its pure water detection capability.
- Aquariums: Alerts to leaks from tanks or filtration systems.
- Dishwashers: Protects against leaks from appliance seals or hoses.
- Well Pumps: Monitors for leaks in pump areas.
- Hydroponics Systems: Ensures controlled water environments by detecting unintended leaks.
- Deionizing Systems: Suitable for high-purity water applications.
- Under Sinks: Place under kitchen or bathroom sinks to detect plumbing leaks.
- Basements: Monitor for groundwater seepage or appliance leaks in basement areas.
Figure 10: Examples of ideal applications for the HydroCheck WaterWatcher.
Warranty and Customer Support
HydroCheck stands behind the quality of the WaterWatcher Leak Detector with a comprehensive warranty and dedicated customer support.
- 5-Year Warranty: The HydroCheck WaterWatcher comes with a 5-year warranty, ensuring peace of mind regarding its performance and durability.
- Exceptional Customer Support: A friendly and knowledgeable customer support team is available to assist with any product or installation queries. For support, please refer to the contact information provided on the product packaging or the official HydroCheck website.
