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LeakFrog Leak Alarm

We received a frog in the mail. Upon opening the box, two little eyes peered up at us, only this was no pet, it was a LeakFrog. LeakFrog is a useful gadget which sounds an alarm when and where water leaks occur. Any indoor location where appliances, pipes or other water sources are found, the potential for expensive water damage exists.

LeakFrog Leak Alarm

Whether sudden or slow, leaks have a way of going for a while before being noticed. By the time someone does notice, thousands of dollars of damage may have already occurred. That is why an alarm can be an important warning device.

LeakFrog is a small plastic domed device about 4 inches in diameter and painted to resemble a frog. The device has two metal "sensors" on the bottom. When enough water comes in contact with both sensors, a circuit is made and the alarm sounds. It runs on three "AAA" batteries (included) and has a "test" button on top to facilitate periodic testing.

We tried out the LeakFrog and were satisfied with the results. In our tests it sounded an alarm immediately upon contact with a small puddle of water. The alarm is a reasonably loud staccato beep that continues as long as it is in contact with water. The manufacturer estimates that its batteries should keep it beeping continuously for up to 72 hours. In standby mode, batteries should be replaced at least once a year. The manufacturer notes that it may not detect leaks near some water purification systems, because the treated water may no longer adequately conduct electricity.

What the Manufacturer Says:

Recommended for placement near:

  • water heaters
  • water beds
  • washing machines
  • dishwashers
  • fridge/icemakers
  • A/C units
  • sinks
  • toilets
  • aquariums
  • attics

In our tests, the device withstood water pouring over the top and it floated when the water level became deep enough. We did discover one problem when we tested it in prolonged exposure to standing water. We left it floating in just under an inch of water. After 18 hours, it had filled with enough water to interfere with its operation and stopped beeping. Although after draining it, it did again resume beeping. Most situations would not result in deep standing water. We would however recommend to the manufacturer that the unit be made water-tight, at least at its base. Admittedly, we were hard on it and under most circumstances it should perform well. Only in extreme cases such as a large pipe burst or basement flooding, might the unit become overwhelmed by water and cease to provide the alarm.

Our other concern is its appearance. While the frog shape is their namesake gimmick, it may be attractive to children as a toy. If it is removed from where it has been placed as a water sentry, then it can't do its job.

Overall, we think this device is a useful tool to guard against water leaks in your home. It stood up satisfactorily to the abuse to which it was subjected. At $12.99, it is a good value for early detection of leaks that could otherwise lead to expensive water damage.

[May 2007]






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