I get the appeal of leak sensors, but honestly, I’ve seen folks get a little too comfortable once they install them. Had a client who figured his sensor would catch anything, so he stopped checking under his sink altogether. Turns out the sensor battery died months before, and by the time he noticed the musty smell, the cabinet was toast. I’m all for tech as a backup, but nothing beats just poking your head in those hidden spots every now and then. Sensors are great—just don’t let ‘em lull you into a false sense of security.
Definitely agree—leak sensors are handy, but they’re not a set-it-and-forget-it thing. I’ve seen batteries die or sensors get knocked loose. Quick visual checks under sinks or near water heaters can save a ton of money and headaches down the line. Tech’s great, but a little old-school vigilance still goes a long way.
Tech’s great, but a little old-school vigilance still goes a long way.
I get where you’re coming from, but I’ve actually had the opposite experience. Did my usual “quick check” under the kitchen sink, missed a slow leak, and by the time I noticed the warped cabinet, it was too late. The sensor I installed later caught a similar drip in the basement before any damage happened. I still peek under sinks now and then, but honestly, those little gadgets have saved me more than once. Maybe it’s just my luck...
The sensor I installed later caught a similar drip in the basement before any damage happened.
That’s interesting—I’ve been debating whether those sensors are worth it or just another gadget to worry about. I’m pretty thorough with my checks, but I guess you can’t catch everything. Out of curiosity, how much did it cost you to fix the cabinet after that first leak? I keep hearing horror stories about water damage bills, and I’m trying to figure out what’s realistic.
- Water damage bills can get wild—think “surprise vacation you never wanted” prices.
- Last kitchen cabinet job I did after a leak? About $1,200, and that was just the cabinet and some drywall. Didn’t even touch the floor.
- If it’s a bigger leak or goes unnoticed, you’re looking at $5k+ easy. Mold’s a whole other headache.
- Sensors aren’t perfect, but they’re cheaper than a new kitchen... or explaining to your partner why the floor smells like swamp.
