Digital Water Alarm Sensor Positioned to Detect Leaks in a Residential or Commercial Setting

Advantages of Water Alarms in Your Chicagoland Home or Business

Nasutsa Mabwa

June 24, 2025

Early detection is key to preventing costly water damage. Learn how water alarms protect your Chicagoland home or business by alerting you to leaks, burst pipes, and hidden moisture — before disaster strikes.

When it comes to protecting your property, early detection of water intrusion can make all the difference. Learn how water alarms can help prevent costly damage and give you peace of mind.

Why Water Alarms Are a Smart Investment

Water damage is one of the most common and costly disasters homeowners and businesses face in Chicago, Oak Park, River Forest, Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Northbrook, Highland Park, and surrounding suburbs. From burst pipes in winter to appliance leaks, water can cause structural issues, ruin belongings, and lead to mold growth.

A water alarm is a simple but powerful tool. This electronic device detects unwanted water and triggers an alert — some models even send notifications to your phone or activate shutoff valves. Early detection allows you to stop the damage before it escalates.

Top Benefits of Water Alarms

1. Prevent Mold and Mildew

Standing water is the leading cause of mold growth, which can develop in as little as 24 to 48 hours. By alerting you the moment water is detected, water alarms give you time to stop the leak and begin drying — reducing health risks and costly mold remediation.

2. Detect Hidden Leaks

Water alarms can be placed behind appliances, under sinks, in basements, and near water heaters — all common sources of slow leaks. These hidden leaks often go unnoticed until major damage occurs. A water alarm ensures you're alerted before the damage spreads.

3. Protect Against Frozen and Burst Pipes

In Chicagoland’s freezing winters, burst pipes are a major threat. Some water alarms come with temperature sensors that notify you if temperatures drop too low, helping you take action before pipes freeze and burst.

4. Save on Insurance Claims and Repair Costs

Water damage restoration is expensive. A small upfront investment in water alarms can help you avoid thousands of dollars in repairs — and may even qualify you for discounts on your insurance premium.

Where to Place Water Alarms

For maximum protection, install water alarms:

Near water heaters and sump pumps
Under sinks and behind toilets
Behind washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators
In basements and crawl spaces
Next to HVAC systems or utility rooms

When Water Damage Happens

Despite the best precautions, water damage can still occur. If you experience water intrusion in your Chicago-area property, call ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons at 773-376-1110 for 24/7 emergency water damage cleanup and restoration.

Frequently Asked Questions About Water Alarms

Q: How do water alarms work?
A: Water alarms detect moisture where it shouldn’t be. When sensors come into contact with water, the alarm sounds (and on smart models, notifications are sent) so you can act quickly.

Q: Are water alarms expensive?
A: Basic models start at around $20. More advanced alarms with Wi-Fi connectivity and shutoff valve controls can cost $100–$300.

Q: Can I install water alarms myself?
A: Yes! Most alarms are easy to place in high-risk areas. Professional help is only needed for complex systems tied into plumbing or smart home setups.

Q: Do water alarms prevent damage?
A: They don’t stop water, but they alert you early so you can intervene before major damage occurs.

Q: Will insurance companies give discounts for water alarms?
A: Some insurers offer premium discounts for having water alarms installed. Check with your agent for details.

About ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons

ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons is a trusted, locally owned disaster restoration firm serving Chicago and the North Shore for over 40 years. Our IICRC-certified team provides:

Water & Flood Damage Restoration
Fire & Smoke Damage Cleanup
Mold Remediation
Specialty Cleaning & Odor Removal

As part of the nation’s oldest restoration brand, founded in Chicago in 1929, we bring unmatched expertise, rapid response, and compassionate service.

📖 For practical tips, see our book: RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset
📞 Call 773-376-1110 for immediate assistance.

Nasutsa Mabwa is the CEO and co-owner of ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, a certified MBE/WBE firm proudly serving Cook, DuPage, and Lake Counties in Illinois. Under her leadership, the company has become one of Chicagoland’s most trusted providers of disaster restoration services, including water and flood damage restoration, fire and smoke damage cleanup, and mold remediation for residential and commercial clients.

A recognized civic and business leader, Nasutsa is a recipient of the 2020 Daily Herald Business Ledger C-Suite Award, a Crain’s Chicago Business 40 Under 40 honoree, and a 2018 ServiceMaster® Achiever Award recipient. She currently serves as a Civic Federation Board Member, an Advisory Board Member, and is the Past President of the Executive Committee for the Evanston Chamber of Commerce. She is a proud member of the WPO - Women's President Organization.

Nasutsa holds IICRC certifications in Water Damage Restoration (WRT) and Fire & Smoke Restoration (FSRT), bringing both strategic leadership and technical expertise to every project.

She is also the co-author of RESTORE: A Complete Guide to Protecting Your Home As Your Most Valuable Asset from Water and Fire Disasters — a practical, accessible book for homeowners based on real-world experience in the restoration industry.

Subscribe now for expert tips, rapid-response insights, and restoration guidance delivered straight to your inbox. Whether you’re recovering from fire, water, or mold damage, stay prepared with advice from the trusted pros at ServiceMaster Restoration by Simons.