What is a WAGS Valve?
A Water and Gas Shutoff (WAGS) Valve can help you avoid a disaster in your Central NJ or Bucks County PA home from a costly leak from your water heater. WAGS is a simple mechanical valve that is installed in the drip pan underneath your water heater and acts as a hot water heater safety shut-off. If your hot water heater is leaking water, the WAGS valve automatically shuts off the water flow when the water in the drip pan reaches a certain level.
Here’s How a WAGS Valve Works
Once the drip pan water reaches ¾ of an inch, a water soluble disc in the WAGS valve dissolves and activates a powerful spring-loaded piston that shuts off water flow. A red indicator pops up to indicate the WAGS valve has been activated. If your water heater is fired by gas, the valve will also shut off gas flow to the water heater.
Why Should I Get One?
Most homeowners don’t give a second thought to their water heaters, but should yours develop a leak, it can result in up to 35 gallons of water or more flooding your basement. Unfortunately, water tank failure is much more common than you might think! Here are some statistics:
- 98% of basements will experience some kind of water damage
- One in 50 homes this year will file an insurance claim for water damage or freezing
- $26,800 is the amount of damage that just 1 inch of water can cause in your basement. (Source FEMA.gov)
What are WAGS Valve Pros & Cons?
There are quite a few leak monitoring systems on the market. Many are operated by smartphones and require electricity or batteries to work. But because a WAGS valve is purely mechanical, it doesn't have wires, circuits, or batteries that need replacing. Its beauty is in its simplicity— this 100% mechanical valve works without electricity if the power goes out, and doesn’t require batteries, Wi-fi, or internet connection. And as much as water heaters have improved in design and longevity, leaks do happen as these appliances age.
Install a WAGS Valve & Protect Your Investment
How much does a WAGS valve cost? A WAGS valve installation on your water heater is surprisingly affordable. The costs for even a small leak in your basement can go well beyond cleanup costs and makes a WAGS valve worth it. Your personal belongings and flooring can be damaged beyond repair. Excess moisture encourages mold growth that can affect your home’s indoor air quality and your family’s health. When compared to the costly consequences of a flood, a WAGS valve is a wise investment.
WAGS Valve Installation by Local Plumbing Experts
Princeton Air’s team of plumbing experts can install a WAGS valve quickly and easily in central New Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania homes. Once the WAGS valve is in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that a water heater leak can be avoided and you won’t suffer costly damage to your basement and personal belongings.
