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Writer's picturePerceptive Things Team

3 Types of Smart Building Sensors


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Technology plays a crucial role in managing a building or property. In a typical multi-family property, it’s nearly impossible to monitor every activity manually.


That’s why using various smart building sensors can make a significant difference in ensuring safety, security, and efficient management.


At Perceptive Things®, we offer three essential types of sensors: Water Leak Sensors, Ambient Condition Sensors (for humidity and temperature), and Asset Trackers (for monitoring the movement of key assets). These sensors help protect your property, prevent costly damage, and ensure occupant safety.


1. Water Leak Sensors

Water leaks can cause extensive and costly damage if left undetected. Water leak sensors provide an early warning system by detecting leaks the moment they occur and alerting you through real-time notifications.


At Perceptive Things®, our wireless alert system notifies you via email, text, or even phone call when leaks are detected, allowing you to address the issue before it escalates. These sensors are versatile and can be placed near high-risk areas like under sinks, near appliances, or around mechanical equipment.


Water leaks are one of the most frequent and expensive issues for building owners. On average, a single incident can cost over $10,000 in repairs, not to mention the additional costs from wasted staff time, operational downtime, and potential mold or structural damage. This multiplies as leaks on the top floor trickle down to lower apartments.


It was this type of water leak that actually inspired our founder, Corey Menscher, to start Perceptive Things®!


Check out this video to see how our water leak sensor systems work to protect your building 24/7, 365:


Why Water Leak Sensors Are Essential

Water damage can be expensive and difficult to recover from. Even a minor leak can lead to a 10% increase in water bills, and water damage restoration can cost anywhere from $150 to over $100,000.


Early detection through leak sensors helps property owners avoid not only monetary losses but also secondary issues like mold growth and electrical hazards. As the EPA says, "Leaks can run, but they can't hide!".


Perceptive Things® Water Leak Sensors:

  • Droplet Solo™: An industrial-grade, waterproof sensor that can be placed almost anywhere with no installation needed.

  • Droplet Duo™: A water leak sensor with dual-probe technology provides comprehensive leak detection. Pre-configured and easy to install.

  • Droplet Pro™: A leak sensor sensor with a 3-meter rope, detecting leaks along its length. Ideal for areas requiring extended coverage.

  • Droplet Zone™: Covers a wide area with its 40cm square membrane, perfect for monitoring under appliances or cabinets.

You can learn more about these sensors on our water leak sensor page or by emailing us at contact@perceptivethings.com!


2. Ambient Condition Sensors (Humidity & Temperature)

Managing the conditions inside a building is crucial to preventing both structural damage and health hazards.


Ambient Condition Sensors monitor environmental factors like humidity and temperature, helping property owners maintain optimal conditions and avoid damage caused by extreme moisture or temperature fluctuations.


High humidity levels can lead to mold growth, warped wood, and corroded electronics, while temperature extremes can cause overheating or freezing, damaging equipment and affecting tenant comfort.


Why Ambient Condition Sensors Are Needed

Humidity and temperature sensors are critical for monitoring building environments.


Excessive humidity promotes mold and mildew growth, which can degrade building materials and pose health risks to tenants. Extreme temperatures, on the other hand, can damage equipment and even cause fire hazards.


Perceptive Things® Ambient Sensors:

  • Mercury™: Monitors temperature and humidity levels, sending alerts when thresholds are exceeded to prevent environmental damage.

  • Mercury Surface™: Designed for monitoring hot surfaces like pipes or electric motors, ideal for detecting overheating conditions.

  • Vapor™: Detects smoke and heat, providing real-time fire risk alerts.

  • Vapor NG™: A natural gas detector that alerts you to methane leaks, minimizing the risk of gas-related incidents.


3. Asset Trackers (Motion Sensors)

Asset Trackers, also known as motion sensors, are used to monitor the movement of valuable equipment and key fixtures, such as fire extinguishers and doors.


These sensors send real-time alerts to notify staff when an asset is moved, helping prevent theft and ensuring that critical items stay in place.


Motion sensors are especially useful for security purposes, such as monitoring doors and windows to prevent unauthorized access or tracking the movement of essential equipment in common areas.


Why Asset Trackers Are Needed

In multi-family properties, theft and unauthorized movement of equipment are common concerns.


Asset Trackers help monitor and secure essential safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, carts, and doors.


These sensors ensure that critical items remain where they are needed, and they can help prevent break-ins by monitoring windows and doors.


Perceptive Things® Asset Trackers:

  • Breeze™: Senses when doors and windows are opened or closed. It also alerts users when access points are left open for a configurable period, helping prevent security risks.

  • Motiv™: Tracks the movement of equipment like fire extinguishers, carts, and doors. This wireless asset motion tracker notifies you when an asset is moved or vibrates for longer than a specified duration, ensuring important items stay secure.


Final Thoughts on Smart Building Sensors

Investing in smart building sensors is essential for safeguarding multi-family and commercial properties.


With Water Leak Sensors, Ambient Condition Sensors, and Asset Trackers, property owners can prevent costly damages, maintain optimal living conditions, and enhance security.


What challenges have you faced when investing in sensor technology? What tools have you found most helpful in protecting your property?


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