Installing a smart shut-off valve is one of the most effective ways to prevent water damage—but placement matters. To protect your entire home, the valve must be installed at the correct point in your plumbing system.
The Golden Rule: Install at the Main Water Supply
For whole-home protection, a smart shut-off valve should be installed on the main water line where water enters your home.
This ensures that:
- All water usage is monitored
- Every fixture and appliance is protected
- Water can be shut off instantly at the source
How to Find Your Main Water Line
The main water line is typically located:
- Near the water meter
- In a basement, garage, or utility room
- Where the pipe enters the home from outside
Look for a large-diameter pipe with an existing manual shut-off valve.
Common Installation Locations
- Basement utility area
- Garage near exterior wall
- Mechanical or service room
- Crawl space access point
The exact location varies by home layout and local plumbing design.
Where Not to Install a Smart Shut-Off Valve
Avoid installing the valve:
- On individual fixture supply lines
- After branch lines that bypass protection
- On outdoor-only irrigation lines
- In areas exposed to freezing temperatures
Improper placement can leave large portions of the home unprotected.
Do You Need a Plumber?
Many homeowners choose professional installation to ensure:
- Correct placement
- Leak-free connections
- Compliance with local plumbing codes
Some systems can be installed by experienced DIYers, but professional installation is often recommended.
Installing the AIWSH Q20 Smart Leak Protector
The AIWSH Q20 Smart Leak Protector is designed to install directly on the main water supply.
Key installation considerations:
- Installed after the water meter
- Installed before branch plumbing lines
- Mounted in an accessible location
- Protected from freezing
Enhancing Protection with Leak Sensors
While the shut-off valve protects the whole home, adding wireless leak sensors improves detection speed in high-risk areas.
- Under sinks
- Near water heaters
- Behind washing machines
- Near dishwashers
What About Apartments and Condos?
In apartments or condos, the shut-off valve should be installed at the unit’s main water line, not shared building plumbing.
This provides protection without affecting other units.
Testing After Installation
After installation:
- Test manual shut-off functionality
- Verify app connectivity
- Simulate a leak to confirm automatic shut-off
Final Thoughts
Proper installation is critical to effective water protection. A smart shut-off valve installed at the main water line provides complete, reliable defense against leaks throughout your home. With the AIWSH Q20 Smart Leak Protector, correct placement ensures full-home coverage, automatic shut-off, and long-term peace of mind.
