Identi-Leak IL-WDC | Water Leak Detection Cable | Linear Sensor, 5/10m, Extendable

FAQs

What length of detection cable do I need for my installation?

Calculate the required cable length by measuring the perimeter or route you need to protect, then select appropriate 5m or 10m cable lengths to cover the distance. Remember that cables can be connected together up to a maximum of 50 metres per zone on conventional panels (20m on Mini panels). It’s advisable to add approximately 10% extra length for routing flexibility and to account for obstacles. Starter kits provide everything needed for simple installations.

Can I mix detection cable and probes on the same zone?

Yes, the Identileak system’s combined interface design allows both detection cable and probes to be installed on the same detection zone. This provides maximum flexibility – you can use cable for wide area coverage along pipework or under raised floors, and add probes for pinpoint detection at specific risk locations like beneath water heaters or in drip trays, all monitored by a single zone on the control panel.

How is the detection cable installed and secured?

The detection cable is installed using fixing clips (IL-FC) that secure it firmly to floors, walls or other surfaces along the intended route. Clips should be spaced at regular intervals to prevent cable displacement and ensure consistent contact with potential water sources. For raised floor installations, the cable typically runs along floor tile supports beneath the access flooring. For ceiling void applications, it may follow pipework or be secured to structural elements where water accumulation is likely.

What happens when the cable detects water?

When the detection cable contacts water along any part of its length, the interface unit connected to that cable immediately signals an alarm condition to the control panel. The panel activates its alarm outputs including LED indicators, internal buzzer, sounder circuits and auxiliary relays. The interface unit’s local blue LED also illuminates to provide immediate visual indication of the leak location, allowing rapid response to minimize water damage.

Can the detection cable be cut to custom lengths?

The detection cable is supplied in standard 5m and 10m lengths. While cables can be connected together to achieve longer runs up to the zone maximum, cutting cables to custom lengths is not recommended as this may affect the cable’s detection properties and end-of-line monitoring. Select combinations of 5m and 10m cables that most closely match your required coverage, using multiple cables connected together as needed.

How many cables can I connect per zone?

You can connect multiple cable lengths together up to the maximum zone capacity: 50 metres on conventional Identileak panels (IL-CONV series) or 20 metres on Identileak Mini panels (IL-MINI-2). For example, on a conventional panel you could connect five 10m cables or ten 5m cables, or any combination totaling 50m or less. All connected cables on one zone share a single interface unit and provide combined linear detection coverage.

Does the cable require power or special termination?

The detection cable requires no separate power supply – it operates from the control panel via the interface unit. The cable must be properly terminated at the end using the cable termination link (IL-WDC-T) which provides end-of-line monitoring, allowing the panel to detect cable faults such as breaks or disconnections. This termination is essential for reliable system operation and is included in the starter kits or available separately.

Is the detection cable reusable after detecting water?

Yes, once the detection cable has detected water and triggered an alarm, it can be dried and will return to normal monitoring operation. The cable is designed for repeated detection cycles – it does not degrade or require replacement after water contact, provided it is properly dried before the system is reset. This makes it suitable for environments where occasional water presence is expected and systems need ongoing protection.

Can the cable be installed outdoors or in wet environments?

The Identileak detection cable is designed for indoor installation as part of a system rated IP30. While it can detect water in damp environments, the entire system including panels and interfaces should be installed in dry, protected locations. For outdoor leak monitoring, the control equipment should remain indoors with only the detection cable extending to outdoor areas. Consult Vimpex for guidance on installations in particularly challenging environmental conditions.

What’s the difference between the 5m and 10m cable lengths?

The IL-WDC-05 (5m) and IL-WDC-10 (10m) cables are functionally identical, differing only in length. Both provide the same linear water detection capability and can be connected together. Choose 5m lengths for shorter runs, tighter spaces, or more precise route following. Select 10m lengths for longer straight runs or to minimize the number of connections needed. Mixing lengths on one zone is acceptable to optimize coverage for your specific installation layout.