Aqua Scope and intelligent leak protection for drinking water in the home

Water damage is one of the most expensive and nerve-wracking problems in private housing. It often goes unnoticed, develops gradually or escalates within a few minutes. This is precisely where a technical approach comes in that does not rely on costly installations or complex interventions in the domestic plumbing system, but on precise sensor technology, automatic shut-off and a consistent focus on drinking water leak protection. The aim is clear: to prevent damage before it occurs and to provide homeowners with a system that they can install themselves.

Drinking water leak protection is not a niche issue. A significant proportion of damage to buildings is caused by defective pipes, burst hoses or creeping leaks. In addition to the financial consequences, there is also the organisational effort, the hassle with insurance companies and, last but not least, the loss of quality of life. Modern technology can make a decisive difference here.

Aqua Scope as a specialist in drinking water leaks

Aqua Scope is a German company that focuses consistently on a single issue: protecting buildings from damage caused by drinking water leaks. Since its foundation, the focus has been exclusively on this area. In addition to its German base, there are further locations in Estonia and Hong Kong, which supports development, manufacturing and international orientation. The approach is deliberately specialised. Instead of offering a broad smart home portfolio, it addresses a clearly defined problem. This focus enables a level of technical depth that is often not achieved with universal solutions. The aim is to reliably detect leaks and automatically shut off the water in an emergency – without costly conversions or specialist installations.

Why drinking water leaks are a structural problem

Drinking water leaks cause a large proportion of damage in the home. Insurance companies regularly record high claims for damage in this area. But money is only part of the problem. For those affected, water damage often means months of renovation work, restricted use of living space and a considerable burden on everyday life. The technical problem consists of two parts. Firstly, it must be recognised that there is a leak. Secondly, the water must be shut off quickly and reliably. Traditional shut-off valves require someone to be on site and able to react quickly. It is precisely this human component that is often lacking in an emergency.

Sensors for detecting leaks in drinking water

The technical basis of the system is an externally mounted sensor that analyses water consumption in the pipe. The sensor is attached to the outside of the pipe and does not interfere with the piping system. From this position, it continuously measures what is happening inside the pipe. It not only records the pure flow rate, but also the characteristics of water consumption. The system recognises typical patterns, such as the short flow of water from a toilet flush or the steady consumption during a shower. These patterns are distinguished from atypical patterns that indicate a leak. It is particularly important to differentiate between small and large leaks. In the case of very small leaks, such as a dripping connection, the user is informed without immediate intervention. This allows time to fix the problem in a targeted manner. In the case of larger leaks, however, where large amounts of water escape within a short period of time, the system reacts automatically.

Automatic shut-off via motorised shut-off valves

If a critical leak is detected, the sensor sends a radio signal to a motorised shut-off mechanism. In many buildings, there is a central main shut-off valve for the drinking water supply in the basement. Instead of operating this manually, a motor is attached to the existing hand wheel. This motor replaces the human hand and can close the shut-off valve within a very short time. The intervention is reversible and does not require the valve to be replaced. At the same time, the resident is informed and can check what is causing the problem. The principle thus combines detection, decision and action in a closed system. It is precisely this chain that is crucial to preventing major damage.

Ultrasonic technology as the basis for measurement

A central technical element is ultrasonic measurement. Signals are sent through the pipe and the transit time is measured in both directions. If no water is flowing, the transit times are identical. When water is flowing, there are minimal time differences, as the signal moves with or against the flow. These differences are extremely small, in the range of picoseconds. The measurement accuracy is correspondingly high. To put the order of magnitude into perspective: in one picosecond, light travels only a fraction of a millimetre. This is precisely the range in which the sensor technology operates. This precision makes it possible to reliably detect and evaluate even the smallest changes in water flow. At the same time, the sensor remains compact and suitable for use in the home.

International adaptation to different water systems

Water supply systems differ from country to country. Accordingly, the products are adapted to regional conditions. In Germany, Austria and Switzerland, classic shut-off valves are often used. In North America, on the other hand, ball valves are widely used. Aqua Scope offers suitable variants for these different systems. The technical core remains the same, but the mechanical connection is adapted. This means that the system can be used internationally without compromising on function or safety.

Additional sensors and extensions

In addition to the central flow sensor, there are other sensor solutions for special applications. These complement the main system and enable even more precise monitoring. However, the focus is always on protecting the home from damage caused by drinking water leaks.

• Detection of slow and acute leaks
• Automatic shut-off in the event of critical water loss
• Installation without interfering with the drinking water pipe
• Adaptation to regional valve and tap systems

Leak protection as part of modern building services

Intelligent leak protection is increasingly becoming an integral part of modern building services. Rising damage costs, higher insurance requirements and a growing awareness of prevention are reinforcing this trend. Systems that do not require extensive installation and work reliably in the background meet a real need here. Aqua Scope's approach shows that specialisation and technical depth can offer decisive advantages. Instead of focusing on general smart home functions, the focus is on a clearly defined problem. For homeowners, this means one thing above all: greater security, less risk and significantly less stress in everyday life.