Ajax Systems WaterStop

Now Ajax goes beyond security, becoming a product in which more professionals — like electricians and plumbers — start to be interested in. Their experience of working with Ajax should be at the same top level. We delved into water leak prevention systems. We received useful feedback from professionals who used Ajax relays to integrate third-party electric valves to shut off the water by LeaksProtect alarm. We collected as many insights as possible. And our engineers dove into them to deliver you WaterStop. -Ilia Yashmakov, Regional Sales Director Balkans & Adriatic

Being a part of an Ajax security system, WaterStop adopted all the signature technologies proven by time. The actuator works on batteries for up to 3 years while being able to shut off the water in a matter of seconds. A command to do this is delivered by the Jeweller radio protocol that has a range of up to 1,100 meters and features encryption, frequency hopping, and jamming detection.

Secure and wireless installation is a distinctive feature of WaterStop. Compact dimensions, tampering alerts of dismantling, a lock for places with public access, and a lever for manual control — all work against typical troubles. The device is connected and set up in the Ajax apps on-site or remotely. WaterStop brings more comfort to the daily grind of plumbers.

The synergy of quality

WaterStop consists of two elements. The first is a quality valve from Bonomi Industries, one of the market leaders. It can be one of three sizes: ½, ¾, and 1 inch, featuring a standard ISO 5211 mount. All valves are suitable for hot and cold water.

The second element of WaterStop is Ajax’s 8.2-newton electric actuator which plays the role of a control unit for the valve. It has two powering options: four CR123A batteries and a connector for 9 V⎓. But even on batteries only, WaterStop will work for up to 3 years, enabling simple, wireless installation.

All the electronic components are protected against overheating and can work at an ambient temperature of up to 60°C. At the same time, WaterStop can be installed on a pipe with a water temperature of up to 120 degrees.

In case of a water leak, the electric actuator will shut off the water in 5 seconds. With a damaged ¾-inch pipe, 5 seconds equals just a liter of water.

Subdue the water with a smartphone

The Ajax app gives system users full awareness and control over the water supply. They can see the valve status, receive instant notifications and shut off the valve with a tap on a smartphone. The interface features the event log that records every action within the system.

With the PRO apps, plumbers and security professionals can set up various automation scenarios to keep a facility dry without user intervention. The water can be shut off in response to a leak detector alarm, turned on and off according to a schedule, or even synchronized with the security mode. Automation scenarios are set up in a few clicks, both on-site and remotely.

It is also possible to set in the app the valve stuck prevention, periodic opening/closing of the valve: once a week, a month, or a quarter, as well as a time when the valve will rotate. The stuck prevention frequency is set according to the valve manufacturer’s recommendations and on-site water quality.

Hassle-free installation

WaterStop is designed for convenient installation at any stage — the construction or renovation of an existing water supply system. The device has compact dimensions and can be installed in one of 4 positions. If necessary, the electric actuator can be easily removed from the valve during installation in a few seconds without tools. It makes the device easy to maintain and is crucial in an emergency when a plumber needs instant access to the valve.

There are two options to control the valve on-site: a button on the actuator enclosure and a lever on the valve itself that is easy to turn with bare hands. The current status of the valve can be seen thanks to a physical indicator. The device features protection against incorrect installation (when the actuator rotates in the wrong direction trying to close an already closed valve) and notifies if the batteries are inserted wrongly.

Reliability at the level of professional security

WaterStop exchanges data with an Ajax hub using the Jeweller radio protocol. Jeweller establishes encrypted, energy-efficient communication at a distance of up to 1,100 meters without range extenders. The range extender doubles the radio communication distance and allows installation even in isolated rooms or deep basements. Connecting ReX 2 to the hub via an Ethernet cable will enable WaterStop to remain online despite thick walls.

WaterStop inherited more professional security features. The actuator is equipped with a tamper. Therefore, system users and the security company receive an instant notification once the device is dismantled. For installation in places with public access, WaterStop is equipped with a specially designed lock. It provides physical protection against unauthorized dismantling, so the critical element of a water leak prevention system is constantly under reliable protection.

Availability

WaterStop will be available for order from authorized Ajax partners in the 4th quarter of 2022.