Winter’s cold, damp weather makes this a great time of year to tackle those indoor DIY projects you’ve been putting off. Even if you only have a few hours to spend, here are five easy ways to upgrade the safety and security of your home. On a limited budget? Many of these devices cost $200 or less while providing plenty of protection and convenience.

Upgrade Your Smart Home Tech

Home automation lets you control countless functions in your home with the press of a button – from regulating the temperature and locking your doors to programming your lighting and monitoring security cameras. Designed to be the heart of your smart home, the Samsung SmartThings Hub connects wirelessly to hundreds of compatible smart devices and is compatible with both Zigbee and Z-Wave products. You can monitor, manage and secure your home using the free smartphone app, Google assistant, or Alexa. Cost: 89.99

Here are just a few of the devices you can connect to upgrade your home:

• The Evolve LOM-15 Z-Wave Receptacle provides ON/OFF control to any light connected to one of the two outlets. Cost: $39.99
• Evolve’s LPM -15 Z-Wave Appliance Module is a plug-in module that lets you connect and control lamps and other appliances. Cost: $54.99
• A variety of lighting, language and temperature options allow you to customize the programmable Venstar T3700 Explorer Residential Digital Thermostat 2H/1C with WiFi or ZWave Capability. Cost: About $100
• Using Watercop’s Z-Wave Emergency Water Shutoff Valve in a Z-Wave home automation network, along with the Z-Wave water alarm sensor, is one of the best ways to protect your home from water damage caused by leaking pipes or failing appliances. Cost: $415 to $479.

Upgrade Your Security System

Protection against intruders and burglars is a top priority for every homeowner. With the Arlo Security System, there are no cords, no wires and no worries! This 100% wireless security system comes with an Internet hub and one camera and is compatible with the Samsung SmartThings home automation system. Cost: $259.99

Arlo’s Pro Wire-Free HD Camera is weatherproof and has infrared night vision, a 130-degree viewing angle and an 8X digital zoom. Consider adding a second camera to your system for comprehensive 24/7 coverage wherever you need it, indoors or out. Cost: $354 to $599.

For added safety, combining the Arlo Audio Doorbell with your Arlo security system or camera lets you see who is at your door and speak with visitors remotely from your phone or tablet. Cost: $79.99 (doorbell only)

Upgrade Your Thermostat

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save 5% to 15% a year on your heating bill by turning your thermostat back 10° to 15° for 8 hours. Replacing your manual thermostat with a programmable thermostat that will help minimize energy consumption by lowering the heat automatically when you’re at work or sleeping.

The Venstar T3700 Explorer Residential Digital Thermostat 2H/1C with WiFi or ZWave Capability can be set for seven day, single day, or five-and-two day programming. Smart home enthusiasts can choose how they want to connect: WiFi or Z-Wave. Once connected, you can tap into your thermostat from inside or outside the house to control your comfort and save money on energy use. Cost: About $100

Upgrade Your Freeze Protection

Power outages and heating system failures are the key causes of frozen pipes. A freeze alarm is one of the best ways to get advance warning and protect your home from costly damage caused by leaking or burst pipes. The popular FreezeAlarm Dialer Pro has become the gold standard in freeze protection products. It automatically calls up to three phone numbers using a landline phone connection when the temperature rises above or falls below a set-point that you determine. Cost: $119.99

The advanced TempAlarm Dialer Pro (replaces the Deluxe FreezeAlarm) features a telephone thermostat control to remotely turn up the heat or air conditioning with a phone call. Add optional sensors (purchased separately) and it will also alert you to water leaks, floods or intruders. Cost: $124.99

For homes with reliable Verizon or AT&T cellular service, the MarCELL Cellular Connected Monitoring System is one of the most affordable cellular-based freeze alarms for monitoring temperature, humidity and power.  If there’s an emergency, it sends an instant phone call, text or email message to a mobile device or PC. Cost: Around $200.

Upgrade Your Automatic Water Shutoff System

If you’ve ever had a water leak turn into a giant catastrophe, you’ve probably learned the hard way that installing an automatic water main shutoff system (aka, “whole house water shutoff valve”) is one of the best ways to protect your property and valuables against water damage. The basic Watercop Classic Sergeant Kit is an affordable, all-in-one sensor-based system with a wireless radio transmitter that detects moisture and automatically closes off access from the main water supply. The system’s control valve and flood sensors are designed to be used indoors in locations protected from the elements. Check with your insurance carrier to see if they offer a discount for customers who connect the WaterCop to their home security system. Cost: $538 to $835.

More Ways to Upgrade & Save

For more winter weekend DIY projects and ways to upgrade your home, check out these articles on the diycontrols.com blog:

Easy DIY Projects to Winterize Your Home

What to Consider When Choosing a Freeze Alarm  

5 Easy Home Improvement Projects for a Snowy Day

The post 5 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Home This Winter appeared first on DIYControls Blog.

Winter is in full swing in many parts of the country, and seniors are at an increased risk for accidents, injuries and other emergencies when temperatures drop. We’ve put together a list of our top tips for families, friends or neighbors looking to help their favorite seniors stay safe, comfortable and healthy – no matter what kind of weather Mother Nature dishes out!

1) Keep the House Comfortable

Install a freeze alarm that sends alerts if the heating system fails.

Changes that come with aging can make it harder for seniors to be aware of getting cold. Equip your senior’s home with a freeze alarm to alert neighbors or family if the furnace fails and the indoor temperature plummets. There are many affordable devices, starting with a local alarm like the battery-powered Freeze Flash Temperature Warning Light that sits in a front-facing window and flashes red when temperatures fall to a level of your choice.

There are also call-out freeze alarms that automatically call a family member or caregiver when the indoor temperature plummets. The phone-based Homesitter freeze alarm automatically calls up to three emergency phone numbers and sounds a loud alarm if there is a drop in temperature below 45°F/7°C. If your senior’s home does not have landline service, a cellular freeze alarm like the MarCELL Cellular Connected Monitoring System is a good solution.

2) Manage Medications

Keep a 30-day supply of all prescriptions on hand.

Consider switching your senior’s prescriptions to a pharmacy that makes home deliveries or a mail order pharmacy so no one has to venture out in bad weather. Many seniors take multiple medications at various times of day, which can be difficult to manage and risky if they get it wrong. An automated pill dispenser and medication reminder like the Med-Q White Digital Pill Box Organizer helps make sure they take the right meds at the right time. Simply program the Med-Q with your loved one and it will flash the corresponding day slot with a bright red light and blast an alarm that increases in volume until they take their pills.

3) Help Seniors Stay in Touch

Install an amplified phone.

Seniors can feel isolated and suffer from seasonal depression when winter weather keeps them housebound. Installing an amplified telephone will allow them to stay in touch with family, friends or caregivers. Phones such as the Clarity Professional XLC2 Amplified Cordless Telephone are loud and simple to use. Features like large buttons that are easy to press and see, and speak the numbers as they are dialed, make them ideal for seniors with hearing or sight problems.

Have a weather alert radio for emergencies.

A battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio will help keep seniors informed of severe weather developments and other emergencies. Consider also keeping a hand-crank or solar-powered radio on hand in case of dead batteries or a power outage.

Provide a reliable way to call for help.

Medical alert systems are designed to give self-sufficient seniors fast access to emergency assistance. The Belle LTE Personal Alert System from ResponseNow Medical Alert Systems is ideal for today’s active seniors. This cellular-based monitored alert system provides protection at home and on the go. The lightweight, waterproof pendant has a large call button, and professional ResponseNow operators are ready to offer assistance 24/7/365. For big emergencies, they can send emergency responders. The Belle+ Personal Alert System automatically detects most falls, and there is also a landline option for seniors who spend the majority of their time at home.

4) Prepare for Power Outages

Invest in non-electric lighting.

Make sure your senior has adequate lighting sources during power outages, including battery-powered flashlights, lanterns and extra batteries. A hand-crank flashlight works without batteries, and a rechargeable nightlight like the Datexx Sentina Smart LED Light turns on automatically to provide safety lighting. Or invest in a multi-use emergency tool like the Datexx Smart Light Mobile Charger. it switches on automatically and doubles as an emergency flashlight when removed from the socket. The built-in battery also functions as a USB mobile charger.

Provide an alternative heat source.

Seniors should have a safe, non-electric way to stay warm during blackouts, such as a wood stove, kerosene heater or efficient wood-burning fireplace. But keep in mind that burning wood or kerosene can produce deadly CO gases. Make sure the area is properly ventilated and install a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector. Many manufacturers offer hard-wired carbon monoxide detectors that also function as a smoke detector so you can protect your senior from both threats with one device.

Keep mobile devices charged.

Staying in touch with the outside world during a power outage is important for home-alone seniors. A battery-powered charger like the iEssentials 6000mah Powerbank provides backup power and four full charges for smartphones.

5) Avoid Hypothermia

Install a WiFi thermostat.

Older adults can lose body heat faster than when they were young, and inactivity, medications and illnesses like diabetes can put them at risk of hypothermia. Seniors should stay indoors during periods of extreme cold, dress in layers and keep their home heated to between 68 and 70 degrees. Consider installing a WiFi thermostat like the Venstar T3700 Explorer Residential Digital Thermostat 2H/1C with WiFi or ZWave Capability. Seniors can adjust the heat from a tablet or smartphone without getting up, and loved ones can access the thermostat remotely and even receive alerts.

Want More Tips?

Taking these simple steps to prepare seniors for weather-related emergencies can help keep them safe, comfortable and healthy. For more tips on protecting older adults year-round, read our blog articles “Give Seniors the Tools They Need to Stay Independent,” “Water Safety for Seniors” and “Summer Safety for Seniors.”

The post Wintertime Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe, Healthy & Cozy appeared first on DIYControls Blog.

Winter weather brings with it the risk of frozen pipes, and unoccupied houses and vacant vacation cottages are particularly susceptible. If the pipes burst when no one is at home, the damage to walls, floors and furnishings can be catastrophic.

If you own a home in a part of the country where winter brings bone-chilling cold, give yourself peace of mind by installing a double layer of protection: a freeze alarm to alert you to low temperatures and a remotely-accessible automatic water shutoff system to limit damage from leaks or flooding.

Who Needs a Freeze Alarm?

A stretch of bitter cold days or a drop in indoor temperature due to a heating system failure or power outage can cause pipes to freeze, leak and burst. This can be a real headache if you travel during colder months or own a vacation home that isn’t used in the winter. A freeze alarm (also called a “high/low temperature alarm”) monitors the temperature inside your home and provides a warning if it dips dangerously low.

There are various types of freeze alarms with a wide range of features, but the two basic models are:

• Local alarms that have flashing lights and rely on nearby neighbors or passersby to respond.
• Callout alarms which provide the assurance that you’ll be notified directly when the temperature in your house gets below a pre-programmed set-point. Choose a communication mode based on what is available or most convenient for you: landline phone, Internet/WiFi or cellular service.

Take Control with a WiFi Temperature & Humidity Monitor

If your home has 24/7 internet access, the Temp Stick Wifi Temperature & Humidity Sensor is an ideal choice for monitoring your home remotely. This WiFi-powered smart monitor sends texts to your phone and email alerts the instant an important change in temperature or humidity is triggered. You set the trigger points and alerts, and can view and update the device from your smartphone, tablet or PC anywhere, anytime. There are no fees or subscriptions and the Temp Stick is battery operated, so you can place it anywhere.

Prevent Water Leaks from Becoming Floods

Installing an automatic water main shutoff system is one of the best ways to protect your property and valuables against potential leaks and costly water damage caused by burst pipes. Also known as whole house water shutoff systems, they can prevent a little drip from becoming a catastrophic flood by automatically turning off the water main when a leak is detected.

Protect Your Home with a WaterCop Automatic Water Shutoff System

WaterCop is one of the most popular whole house leak detection systems on the market. Recognized for their reliability, affordability and “Made in America” quality since 1999, the company is committed to continuously improving its products to keep pace with the latest technology.

The basic WaterCop Classic Sergeant Kit is an easy-to-install, all-in-one sensor-based system with a wireless radio transmitter that detects leaks and automatically closes off access from your water supply. The kit includes the WaterCop Classic Valve/Actuator, an industrial quality lead-free brass valve that installs on the incoming main water supply line into your home, plus three flood sensors. The actuator supports an unlimited number of sensors, so you can purchase as many as you need to detect leaks throughout your home.

As an added feature, the SmartConnect WiFi and App Interface works through the WaterCop app to provide you with real time system alerts, notifications, and remote monitoring and control of your WaterCop system.

More Ways to Winterize Your Home

The combination of a freeze alarm and an automatic water shutoff system is one of the best investments you can make to help protect your home and valuables against the dangers of frozen pipes. If you need help deciding which devices are right for you, contact the technical experts at diycontrols.com. Looking for more ways to keep your home safe and secure this winter? You’ll find plenty of tips in these recent articles on our blog: “Leaving Town This Winter? 4 Tips for Keeping Your Home Safe & Sound” and “5 Easy Ways to Upgrade Your Home This Winter.”

The post Install a Double Layer of Protection Against the Dangers of Frozen Pipes appeared first on DIYControls Blog.

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Are you a security-conscious homeowner who wants to protect your property? A parent looking to keep tabs on the young drivers in your life? Or a senior looking for a cost-effective way to deter intruders? Installing a driveway alarm is an effective and affordable way to upgrade your home security – and make sure you are never surprised by unexpected visitors.

A driveway alarm, also called a driveway alert, features a monitor that sends out an alert as soon as a vehicle enters the driveway. There are countless reasons for installing a driveway alarm, but the top three are:

• You want to know when deliveries or visitors arrive;
• You or a family member are frequently at home alone;
• Your property has multiple entrance points.

Choosing the Right Driveway Alert System

There are many driveway alert systems available to fit any budget or security need. And with today’s wireless systems, installation is fast and easy! Here are some of our most popular alarms:

Dakota 4000 Series Driveway Alarm Kits

Dakota Alert makes some of our most popular driveway alarm systems and outdoor motion sensor alerts. The Dakota 4000 Driveway Motion Alert is a wireless motion sensing driveway alarm that will detect people and vehicles up to 50 feet away entering your property or driveway, sending a signal to the wireless receiver. When motion is detected, the receiver will flash an LED indicator and play your choice of one of 12 notification tunes. It can be used in your driveway or anywhere on your property you want to monitor, including entrances and porches.

Perfect for protecting driveways, drive thru, service centers, and property entrances, the Duty Cycle Probe Alert (DCPA-4000) driveway alarm system uses a magnetic probe that senses the change in magnetic field caused by large moving metal objects like cars, trucks and heavy equipment. The vehicle probe is buried beside or beneath the driveway and the included cable attaches to the wireless transmitter, which can be mounted on a wall, pole or tree.

If you are monitoring large outdoor areas, consider the Dakota 4000 Solar Powered Wireless Infrared Break Beam Kit. This self-powered alert is activated when the beam from the infrared sensing terminals detects motion. The break beam sensor batteries are recharged through the solar panels during the day. There is no need to run wires for power, so installation can be completed in as little as a few minutes. And it’s simple to set up a perimeter using multiple sensor pairs.

Ring HD Security Camera with Floodlights and Siren Alarm

The Floodlight Security Camera from Ring is ideal for monitoring movement outside the home and keeping an eye on your property from anywhere, anytime. It features two 3000K LED floodlights that illuminate the area when motion is detected. Motion also triggers the camera to begin a live stream with a notification sent to your connected iOS or Android device. The camera has a 140° field of view for a wide coverage area, and integrated two-way audio allows you to communicate with visitors.

Safety Technology Wireless Alerts

Some driveway alarms alert with a voice message, like Safety Technology’s Wireless Alert Series STI-V34150 Wireless Driveway Monitor with Voice Receiver. This battery-powered monitor sends a wireless signal to your home to alert you when an unannounced vehicle enters your driveway. Movement of any large metallic object close to the driveway sensor will transmit a signal to the included voice receiver, causing the receiver to sound a programmable voice message. Safety Technology also has a solar powered model, the Wireless Alert Series STI-V34100. The sensor may be placed up to 1000 feet away from the receiver in your home.

Want to Know More About Driveway Alarms?

A driveway alarm is a simple and safe solution for protecting the first point of entry to your home or property. You can choose the type of alert you need depending on what you want to monitor, and most models are reasonably priced and easy to install. If you’d like more information about the many ways you can use driveway alarms to secure your home, business or other property, we’re here to help! Feel free to contact us with questions or concerns.

The post Installing a Driveway Alarm is a Simple Way to Upgrade Your Home Security appeared first on DIYControls Blog.

Does the switch to Daylight Saving Time have you dreaming of heading for the park or the bike trail instead of tackling springtime home maintenance chores? We’re with you! However, if you’re a handy homeowner, we can help you narrow down the list of projects you’ll need to address this spring. Our DIY-ers guide will help you focus on the must-do maintenance tasks to get your home ready for the new season – and you’ll still have plenty of time to enjoy the longer days and warmer weather!

Inspect the Roof and Attic for Leaks

Winter wear and tear can take a toll on the roof, so grab a ladder and look for cracked or missing shingles. It’s also important to inspect joints around chimneys and skylights where water can seep in. If your roof is less than 20 years old and the damage is limited, you should be able to make repairs yourself or hire a professional roofer. If your home has an older roof, you may want to start saving for a replacement.

Now is also a good time to check your attic for leaks or water stains. If you see evidence of leakage, install a water alarm to monitor the spot and prevent expensive water damage. The Flood Screamer Wireless Water Alarm System allows you to monitor up to 32 Water Puck sensors that you can place at strategic points where water damage may occur. When a Water Puck sensor gets wet, it sends a wireless signal to the Flood Screamer, which sounds an alert and indicates where the problem is located.

Service the Air Conditioner

Before the first heat wave strikes, service your A/C units or system to improve efficiency and lower your energy bill. If your home has central air conditioning, call your HVAC professional early in the season before they get busy. To save even more on cooling costs, replace your old thermostat with a programmable thermostat that will help minimize energy consumption by adjusting the temperature automatically when you’re at work or sleeping.

The Venstar T3700 Explorer Residential Digital Thermostat 2H/1C with WiFi or ZWave Capability can be set for seven day, single day, or five-and-two day programming. Smart home enthusiasts can choose how they want to connect – via WiFi or Z-Wave – and tap into the thermostat from inside or outside the house using a tablet or smartphone.

Replace Batteries in Smoke Detectors

If you missed the National Fire Protection Association recommendation to change the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when you changed the time on your clocks March 8, it’s not too late to do it now. Smoke alarms with non-replaceable 10-year batteries like the First Alert 10-Year Sealed-Battery Photoelectric Smoke Alarm are a convenient option for those who prefer an alarm with uninterrupted protection. The alarm’s sensor can detect slow smoldering fires while reducing the chances of triggering nuisance alarms. Or upgrade to hard-wired smoke detectors which will continue to operate on A/C power, even with a dead backup battery. These are considered safer because they are typically interconnected, which means all the smoke detectors in your home will go off simultaneously, no matter where the fire is located.

Get the Yard Summer-Ready

Prepping your yard and landscaping for summer is a “must do” for every homeowner. Whether you do it yourself or get help from a neighborhood teen looking to make some extra money, you’ll want to pick up fallen sticks, rake any remaining leaves and trim dead branches from trees. For a great-looking lawn, plan on seeding barren spots and fertilizing.

Ready to enjoy bug-free evenings in your backyard or patio? Invest in an effective insect repeller. The Thermacell MR300 Portable Mosquito Repeller effectively repels mosquitoes by creating a 15-foot protection zone. Lightweight and portable, you can place it anywhere outdoors to keep bugs at bay. Or opt for quiet, effective, powerful protection with the Thermacell Radius Zone Mosquito Repellent. Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, this easy-to-use table top unit delivers a 110-sq.-ft. mosquito-free area for up to 6 hours per charge.

Deer, squirrels, birds and other outdoor critters can become a nuisance this time of year. DIYcontrols.com stocks an array of high-tech animal and pest deterrents, ranging from devices that keep unwelcome guests away from your garden to preventing small animals from getting under the hood of your car.

Upgrade Your Security with a Driveway Alarm

A driveway alarm or alert is a simple and safe solution for protecting the first point of entry to your home or property. These alarms feature a monitor that sends out an alert as soon as a vehicle enters or leaves the driveway. When the driveway alert’s sensor is triggered, its receiver sounds an audible beep or chime and/or flashes a light. You can choose the type of alert you need depending on what you want to monitor, and most models are reasonably priced and easy to install. Read our recent blog article, Installing a Driveway Alarm is a Simple Way to Upgrade Your Home Security, to find out more about the types of driveway alarms and how they can be used. Visit us at DIYControls.com to view our full selection of home improvement devices. Our experts are happy to help you make your home summer-ready!

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Water damage from leaks or broken pipes is a concern for every homeowner at any time of year, and it can be an even bigger worry as spring’s arrival brings melting snow and ice and plenty of rain. If your home has a sump pump, you’ll also need to monitor the water level and be on alert for malfunctions or power outages.

The smallest leak or flood can become a major headache, resulting in thousands of dollars in damage to your home, furniture and personal belongings. Investing in a water alarm is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious water damage, mold and mildew.

Where to Use a Water Alarm

Water alarms can be used to detect leaks caused by both plumbing and non-plumbing problems, such as a leaky roof or basement flood. Place alarms in areas around your house or apartment that are susceptible to leaks from natural causes, such as rain, melting snow and ice, or freezing temperatures. The attic, basement, crawlspace and garage tend to be the most vulnerable locations.

It’s also a good idea to use water alarms where you have old plumbing or leak-prone appliances like hot water heaters, washing machines, toilets and whole-house humidifiers.

Alarms for Local Leak Detection

A water alarm with local leak detection offers homeowners an easy and affordable way to get advanced warning that there’s a water potential problem. When the alarm’s moisture sensor gets wet, it sounds a loud alarm such as a siren or loud ringing or beeping.

Popular models include the WaterBug 200 Water/Flood Sensor. The unit includes one standard surface sensor, but it can monitor as many as six sensors up to 100 feet away. If you travel frequently or own a vacation cottage or cabin, consider choosing the WaterBug 350. This model operates on a 9-volt transistor battery (not included) and can be connected to alarm panels, bells, and dialers like the Sensaphone 400 Cottagesitter, a phone-based alarm which lets you check in and adjust settings remotely.

The WaterSiren Pro Water/Flood Sensor, which will notify you quickly if water is detected by the attached water sensor. It has a 90-decibel alarm and is ideal for use in a sump pit, behind appliances, on basement floors or under water heaters. The WaterSiren Pro can also close or open an alarm contact which can trigger an alarm system or a telephone dialer such as the TempAlarm Dialer Pro, which calls up to three phone numbers if you have a water leak or the power goes out.

Sump Pump Alarms Alert You to Malfunctions

If your home has a sump pump, it won’t operate if there’s a power outage or a mechanical failure.  It’s a good idea to include a sump pump alarm to warn you that the system is not functioning and the water level in the sump pit is rising.

Some sump pump models come with built-in high-water alarms, like Metropolitan Industries’ Ion StormPro WC33i 1/3 HP Sump Pump or Ion StormPro BA50i 1/2 HP Sump Pump with 6″ Ion Digital Controller. Both models are durable, high performance, primary sump pumps for protecting basements and crawlspaces against flooding. The WC33i is capable of removing 44 gallons per minute at 10’ levels to handle high water in-take situations, while the energy efficient BA50i pumps 65 gallons of water per minute at 10’.

You can also purchase a controller separately. The Floodfree Pump Control and Alarm has an audible local alarm that warns you before flooding occurs, and it can be hooked up to a dialer or security system for remote warning. The Floodfree sensor is not affected by pump movement, oil, grease, soaps, turbulence, foaming, or flow rates, making it extremely reliable in any environment.

Get Notified of Water Leaks When You’re Away from Home

With a local water alarm, someone needs to be present to hear the siren and react. For those who want to be notified of a problem when they’re not home, there are water alarms that send out alerts via a phone call, text message and/or email. The HomeSitter Temperature, Water, and Power Alarm (HS-700E) will protect your home from damage caused by water leaks as well as temperature extremes or power failures. It includes a remote wired water sensor that will sound an audible alarm and call up to three telephone numbers using a landline phone connection. Set-up takes only a few minutes and there are no monitoring fees or installation costs.

With the MarCELL Cellular Connected Monitoring System, you can monitor your home  or vacation property remotely from any computer, Smartphone or tablet – no phone line or internet connection required. Combine the system with remote wireless water sensors (SPucks®) to monitor for water leaks; if there is an issue, you will be notified immediately via text, email and phone call alerts.

More About Water Leak Detectors

Any of these water leak detectors will help protect your home, furniture and belongings from water damage. There are also appliance-specific solutions that can detect a leaky hot water heater or washing machine, as well as automatic water main shut-off systems to protect your entire home. This comparison chart provides an overview of the different types of systems available. Or contact the experts at DIYcontrols for help choosing the water alarm that’s right for you.

The post Protect Your Home Against Serious Damage with a Water Alarm appeared first on DIYControls Blog.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people across the country – and around the world – are living and working. With social distancing, stay-at-home regulations, and quarantines the new norm, more people than ever are searching for ways to stay connected safely.

We’re sharing some suggestions for keeping in touch and ensuring the safety of friends and family who cannot have visitors or venture out during this difficult time. We’ve also included a few ideas to help you enjoy your time indoors – whether you’re home alone or managing a crowded household.

When Staying Connected is Essential 

For many of us, the phone is the easiest way to stay connected with loved ones. However, talking on the phone can be extremely frustrating for people with hearing loss. Fortunately, there’s a wide selection of amplified phones for the hearing impaired that offer a variety of features in corded, cordless or hands-free models.

Amplicon’s PowerTel 760 Assure Amplified Corded Telephone with Integrated Answering Machine provides exceptional sound with adjustable amplification right on the handset. Big buttons make dialing easy, and the talk-back buttons lets you hear the numbers so you can avoid misdialing. The Caller ID Announce feature helps you screen calls. Clarity’s Photo Phone P300 Amplified Phone makes sounds not only louder, but also clearer and easier to understand. With up to 26 decibels of amplification and programmable photo memory buttons, it’s the perfect option for those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss or low vision.

When Home-Alone Seniors Need Medical Assistance

Now more than ever, self-sufficient seniors need fast access to emergency assistance if an unexpected health event prevents them from getting to a phone. The Freedomalert Personal Emergency Response System provides a reliable way to summon help. The system can be preprogrammed to dial up to four numbers of family, friends or neighbors and will call 911 if there is no answer. Freedomalert works on any standard landline phone with touch-tone capability and 911 service and requires no monthly fees.

The Belle LTE Personal Alert System is a cellular-based monitored alert system that works anywhere in the U.S. on 4G Verizon LTE or 3G ATT. The lightweight, waterproof pendant has a large call button, and professional ResponseNow operators are ready to offer assistance 24/7/365. For big emergencies, they can send emergency responders. The Belle+ Personal Alert System automatically detects most falls, and there is also a landline option for seniors without cell service.

When Everyone is Watching TV at the Same Time

With everyone inside watching shows and movies, it may be time to check out a TV listening system. Users can listen to their favorite shows or music at any volume without disturbing others, making it a great option for any shared household.

The Sennheiser RS 5000 TV Amplifying System is a smart listening device that lets you listen to shows, movies, and music through a pair of wireless in-ear headphones – and customize your TV sound experience. Pair it with the RR 5000 TV Amplifying System Receiver and add up to three extra headsets – so family members can enjoy the same show or movie at personalized volume levels!

For crystal clear sound delivered directly to your ears without the discomfort of headphones, we suggest Audio Fox TV Listening Speakers. Connect the system to your TV, stereo or other multimedia equipment, place the wireless speakers over the back of your chair, couch or bed, and adjust the volume. Or opt for Serene Innovations’ TV SoundBox TV Listening Speaker System, which delivers stereo sound from the TV to you. No more missed words or blaring volume to disturb others in the room.

When You Want to See That Loved Ones Are Safe

Although it may be unsafe to visit loved ones who are elderly or have compromised immune systems, a motion and sound-activated surveillance camera like the Arlo Pro Wire-Free HD Camera, Indoor/Outdoor, Night Vision Security System allows you to “see” that they are safe and sound. This home monitoring system eliminates the need for cords or electrical outlets, and each weather-resistant camera has infrared night vision and a 130-degree viewing angle for comprehensive coverage inside or out. It even works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant!

When it’s Time to Put a Fresh Spin on Cooking at Home

Health experts recommend we get plenty of fresh air, so celebrate the next beautiful spring day with a backyard BBQ. Cut-n-Que BBQ Sets have all the tools to grill the perfect family meal – including professional grade chef’s knives, cutting mats and grill tools with telescoping handles –packed in a portable carry case.

If you’re worried about running short on food and water, stock up on Life Gear’s Life Essential 72-Hour Food & Water Kits. Each survival kit has a 5-year shelf life and contains a 3-day supply of food and water and a thermal blanket for warmth.

All of us at DIYcontrols.com are doing our part to help slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus, while continuing to provide our customers with the service and products they need to stay safe, healthy and connected. As always, you can reach us by phone or email with questions or concerns.

The post Staying Safe and Connected During the COVID-19 Outbreak appeared first on DIYControls Blog.

Prepping a backyard swimming pool for the summer season can be a simple process for any do-it-yourselfer, regardless of whether you have an in-ground or above-ground pool. Imagine no more stressing over when the pool service company can fit you into their busy schedule – and saving yourself hundreds of dollars!

Just wait until temperatures are consistently above freezing, then follow these 5 easy steps. You’ll be ready to relax poolside in no time.

Step 1: Remove and store the pool cover

If you have a solid pool cover, the first thing you need to do is to remove any standing water (skip this step if you have a mesh pool cover). Using a submersible pool cover pump will help speed up the process. Clean off as much debris as you can using a brush, leaf net or blower to avoid having dirt, leaves or branches fall into the pool when you remove the cover.

Be sure to leave the pool cover in place until after you have raised the water level and balanced the chemistry. Once the water is clear, carefully lift off the pool cover, lay it somewhere flat and let it air dry. Sprinkle the cover with talcum powder to prevent mold and mildew, fold it loosely and store it in a dry place.

Step 2: Adjust the water level and chemicals

Pools typically lose water during the winter, so use your garden hose to bring the water level in the pool to its normal height. To ensure a clean and safe swimming environment, it is essential that you test the chemistry of your pool water for pH, alkalinity, bromine and chlorine. Do-it-yourself pool and spa test kits that use test strips make water testing easy and accurate. Look for models with digital and automated color matching readouts for best results. Adjust the chemicals as needed and be sure to run the circulation and filtration system continuously, 24 hours a day.

Step 3: Clean and vacuum the pool

It typically takes about a week after adding the chemicals until you are able to see the pool floor. Once the water is clear enough, vacuum the dirt and debris. An automatic pool cleaner will eliminate the chore of manually vacuuming. These robotic cleaning machines scrub the floor of the pool and suck up dirt and debris. Look for models that don’t require a hose, booster pump or pool filter system connection. To remove floating bugs, leaves and twigs from the pool’s surface, use a long-handled skimmer net.

Step 4: Install proper pool safety equipment

Check with your local municipality for the latest information on what pool safety measures are required in your community and make sure you are in compliance. Regardless of local regulations, at DIY we urge all pool owners to install a triple layer of protection to maximize safety and peace of mind. Your pool safety equipment should include:

• A pool fence at least four feet high surrounding the pool and spa areas;
• A self-closing, self-latching gate with a pool gate alarm like the MagnaLatch ALERT Pool Safety Gate Latch with Alarm. This easy-to-install magnetic latch offers another layer of protection with an alarm that has dual electric warnings when unlatched: bright LED lights and an audible alarm;
• A pool alarm for your inground or above ground pool that sounds an alarm when a child, pet or non-swimmer falls or jumps into water. The Pool Patrol PA-30 floats on the water’s surface and comes with a remote receiver that alarms when anyone or anything heavier than 8 pounds falls into the water and creates waves. A personal immersion pool alarm like the Safety Turtle 2.0 provides continuous protection to individual wearers. The turtle-shaped water-activated switch is worn on a child’s wrist or attached to a pet’s collar.

Step 5: Perform ongoing pool maintenance

To keep your pool sparkling clean all summer long, you will need to perform a few basic maintenance tasks on a regular basis. These include:

• Checking and cleaning the filter
• Vacuuming the pool bottom at least once a week
• Maintaining the water level (a pool water leveler that turns on automatically is a wise investment)
• Testing the water chemistry every 2-3 days

Don’t Skip a Step!

It’s important to follow all 5 steps in this DIY pool opening process to ensure a safe and healthy swimming experience for you, your family and your guests. Once you discover how easy it is to prep your pool for summer, you will never again have to rely on someone else to do it for you. If you have questions or need help choosing the perfect pool products for your backyard oasis, call on the experts at DIYcontrols.com. We’re here to help!

The post Your 5-Step Guide to Backyard Pool Prep appeared first on DIYControls Blog.

Even the smallest leak can become a major catastrophe for homeowners, resulting in thousands of dollars in damage. Investing in a water alarm is one of the most effective ways to detect leaks caused by both plumbing and non-plumbing problems – from leak-prone appliances to a leaky roof.

FloodStop, which makes some of our best-selling water shutoff valves, has just added a new option to its line of automatic water shutoff products. FloodStop shutoff valves prevent leaks by turning off the water at its source and sounding a local alarm. Now you can add the FloodStop WiFi Connect Module to your system and be alerted via text message and/or email whenever the alarm is triggered.

Adds WiFi Connectivity to Any FloodStop Device

This easy-to-use device connects to your home WiFi network and plugs into your FloodStop shutoff valve’s relay output. The module will send out alerts via text to up to two cell phone numbers as well as five different email addresses. No subscription is required – the purchase price covers everything.

The FloodStop WiFi Connect Module is compatible with any of FloodStop’s automatic water shutoff valves. You can buy valves separately or save by purchasing the valve and module together.

Pairs Easily with Other Water Detection Systems

Because it is triggered by a relay closure, the FloodStop WiFi Connect Module can be wired into other shutoff valve devices as well. For instance, you can pair it with the FloodMaster Total Water Main Shut-Off and Alarm series, which is designed for localized leak detection. When a leak is detected in a room or on a single floor, the unit will automatically shut off the water main supply line. It will also work with FloodMaster’s Water Leak Detection & Alarm System, which sounds an audible alarm when its sensor puck comes in contact with just 1/16″ of any non-flammable liquid. The system plugs into any common wall outlet, and comes with a standard optional dry contact output to a home security panel, control room or appropriate relay. Just connect the module to the “Normally Open” output on the controller.

The FloodStop WiFi Connect Module is also compatible with Flood Screamer products like the Wireless Water Alarm System, which allows you to monitor up to 32 Water Puck sensors placed at strategic points where water damage may occur. When a Water Puck sensor gets wet, it sends a wireless signal to the Flood Screamer, which sounds an alert and indicates the location of the leak. Or combine the module with the Valve Screamer Wireless Whole House Kit – one of the easiest whole house water detection systems to install. It comes with a water main shutoff valve to turn off the water supply for plumbing leaks anywhere in the house, plus a Flood Screamer control unit and two Water Puck sensors.

Helps Avoid Costly Wastewater Backups

Wastewater backups and spills can result in property damage, odors and health hazards. The Detectit Hardwired Wastewater Backup Alarm Standard Kit comes with a sensor designed to be installed into the main drain line that will detect a backup or slow draining waste water and sound a piercing alarm before a problem occurs. When you combine Detectit with the FloodStop Wifi Connect Module, you will also get text and email alerts when you are away from home. Have a kit with the full alarm panel? Simply connect the WiFi module to the outputs on the red alarm panel.

If you are looking for a way to prevent a minor plumbing or appliance failure from becoming a major problem, an automatic water shutoff system will help you safeguard your valuable property. When you want to monitor your property even when you are miles away, FloodStop WiFi Connect will give you 24/7 peace of mind.

The post Get Text and Email Alerts with FloodStop WiFi Connect appeared first on DIYControls Blog.