New D-Link Water Sensor Review

A few weeks ago I was approached by D-Link Canada to review their new DCH-S160 Wi-Fi water sensor. I have been using their security camera system for years, so D-Link is no stranger to me. I like the idea of being able to monitor and detect water leaks and alert me whether or not I am home. 

The D-Link Wi-Fi DCH-S160 water sensor comes in a compact package with three main components: the main unit, the RJ-11 cable and the 50cm sensor cable. You can use a longer RJ-11 or power extension cord if you don't have any power outlet near where you want to check for water. 

Setting up the unit was a breeze - it was truly as easy as 1-2-3. Anybody can install it by simply following the prompts. 

First you would want to download the mydlink Home apps. 

Plug in the device per instruction. 

Upon plugged in, the device will blink red light for a few seconds.

Wait for the LED to blink orange. 

My Wi-Fi router automatically detected the water sensor device so I didn't really need to do anything for this step.  

Press the WPS button on the sensor and when it turned solid green then you can hit Next to search the device. 

Give your water sensor a nickname and you are all set! 

I tested it by placing the sensor cable under tap water. 

Upon contact with water, the device sounded an alarm (loud enough that I could hear it anywhere in the house). The alarm however didn't stay on - perhaps it's because I only dabbed the tip of the sensor cable with water, and it was for a very short period of time. Had it been a larger amount of water or the cable been submerged, the alarm probably would stay on. You also have the option to have it send a notification straight to your phone when you are not home. 

I plan to leave it in our utility room next to the sewer drain. You can also place multiple ones throughout the house around water heaters, washing machines, sinks and sump pumps. 

In summary, I like this new D-Link Wi-Fi Water Sensor. It's practical, very easy to install, and gives you peace of mind. 

Check out this video for a step-by-step installation guide. For more information about this sensor, please go to this link. 

Disclosure: The unit was provided by D-Link, but all the opinions are my own. 

Life, Lately

Between work, travel and trying to catch the tail end of summer, life has been busy lately. Busy fun, fortunately. 

Home decor wise, I've spent a fair amount of time entertaining over the past few weeks, so I've been burning quite a few scented candles. My favourite is the handmade Lilac wood wick candle by Gabys Inspirations. 

Wood wick burns brighter and hotter. The occasional crackling sound makes it ideal for colder months ahead. The lilac scent is delicate and elegant - all my guests loved it. 

I recently found the best Modena balsamic vinegar by Giuseppe Giusti from a local fine food store. It's perfectly balanced with a sweet aftertaste. I used it on Caprese with fresh soft Buffalo mozzarella, and drizzled on fresh figs with goat cheese.  

Gladiolus is in season, and I am obsessed about them. Two bouquets per week is the rate I am going at these days, one for the kitchen, and the other for the living room. They come in so many colours, look fabulous and they are inexpensive. They don't last more than one week though as the tips tend to get droopy over time and dry out. White Glads are my favourite. 

Pink comes second. I think I am going to try blue this weekend if I can find them. 

Have you been seeing fall decor everywhere? Fall is not exactly my favourite season, so I've been trying to put off doing anything about it as much as I can. I don't know how to work all the earthy colours into my house. But I did pick up this set of acorn canisters from HomeSense. Aren't they cute? Just a touch of the harvest season is all I need. 

Our blue satin Rose of Sharon shrub is unstoppable this year. We are well into September, and it's still blooming like there's no tomorrow. We are adding a retaining wall to our flower bed as well as expanding the patio in our backyard next week. I can't wait to share some pictures with you afterwards. 

That's it for now. Have a great weekend everyone!