Let Dixie Protect Your Home From Water Damage

Here’s a scary thought: Most water heaters fail within 7 to 10 years. Potentially it could mean about 5 million tank failures every year. In many cases, they start leaking water and can cause thousands of dollars in damage. The leak can be especially catastrophic if the water heater is located in the attic.
Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air has a simple device to protect your home or business. It’s called the WAGS (Water and Gas Shutoff) valve. The device is placed in the drip pan under the water heater. When it detects water it automatically shuts off the water supply. In the case of gas-fired heaters, it cuts the gas supply as well. Without some sort of shut off device a leaking water heater tank just keeps refilling, adding to the damage in your home.
The WAGS valve is completely mechanical. It does not require an electrical connection or maintenance of any sort. Just make sure the holes allowing water to enter the device don’t get blocked.
Splashing water will not activate the water shut off valve. The water sensing element is enclosed and can only be activated when the water reaches a depth of ¾”.
The valve should only be installed by a licensed Dixie plumber or HVAC technician who is trained to do it properly. The upfront cost is usually between $300 and $400. It may seem pricey, but compared to the cost of repairing water damage it’s actually pretty cheap.
The WAGS valve is a great choice for rental properties, vacation homes, or any house or business you can’t monitor all the time.
What you need to remember is this device is specifically designed for your water heater. A burst hose on your clothes washer or overflowing drip pan on your air conditioner can cause just as much damage. Dixie can install other safety devices to use in those situations.
Now is the time to call Dixie Electric, Plumbing & Air, so we can talk with you about how easy it is to protect your home and belongings from water damage, no matter what the source is.