Water leak sensors are really generic electrical connectivity sensors

30th May 2026

Water leak sensors are the generic semi-diy, solder-less everything sensor, because they detect electrical connectivity between their 2 contacts.

So we could connect a generic pressure sensor to the contacts and put it under the cats litter box or water bowl. 

My generic recommendations, Third reality water drop shaped sensor

choose zigbee, wifi uses more power, mater is still very finicky, z-wave is popular in UK but gradually losing ground to zigbee

Choose a sensor that uses standard AAA rechargeable batteries, coin cells are not rechargeable and comparatively expensive

Choose a sensor with threaded, height adjustable contacts or external contacts on a wire.   These will make it easier to connect your sensor wires.

Choose a sensor that can have the audible alarm turned off in software.  You don’t need to cut any speaker wires.

DIY Home Assistant Seating Detection without Soldering – nielstron https://share.google/9NXTo9ybBH7OrUkgC