PlumSense Extension Cable Installation

Step-by-step guide to installing the PlumSense extension detection cable, which plugs into a PlumAssist puck to expand leak detection coverage.

Before You Begin

PlumSense is an extension detection cable that plugs into a PlumAssist puck to expand its leak detection area. It is not a standalone device — it requires a PlumAssist to function. The cable detects water contact along its length, making it ideal for wrapping around pipes, stretching across surfaces, or reaching into tight spaces where the PlumAssist puck cannot be placed directly.

Make sure you have already installed and paired your PlumAssist puck before connecting a PlumSense cable. See the PlumAssist installation guide if you have not done so.

What Is in the Box

  • (1) PlumSense Extension Detection Cable

Step 1: Inspect the Cable

  1. Remove the PlumSense cable from its packaging.
  2. Straighten the cable and inspect it for any damage. The cable should be intact with no cuts, kinks, or exposed wiring.
  3. Confirm both ends are in good condition — the connector end (plugs into the PlumAssist) and the detection end.

Step 2: Plan Your Cable Route

Before plugging in the cable, decide where you want it to run. Good placements include:

  • Around pipe fittings and joints — Wrap the cable around areas where pipes connect, as these are common failure points.
  • Along the base of a water heater — Extend the detection area beyond where the PlumAssist puck sits.
  • Behind or underneath appliances — Reach into tight spaces behind washing machines, dishwashers, or refrigerators.
  • Across a basement floor — Stretch the cable across a wider area to catch water from any direction.

Placement Tips

  • Leave some slack in the cable. Do not stretch it taut or put it under tension.
  • Avoid running the cable across doorways or high-traffic walkways where it could be stepped on or tripped over.
  • Keep the cable away from heat sources like furnaces or hot water pipes that exceed the operating temperature range.
  • The cable can be secured along a baseboard or wall using cable clips (not included) for a clean installation.

Step 3: Connect to PlumAssist

  1. Locate the jack on the bottom of your PlumAssist puck.
  2. Plug the PlumSense cable connector into the jack.
  3. Make sure the connection is snug and secure.

Important: The PlumAssist puck has one jack. When you connect a PlumSense cable, it replaces the included probe extender. You cannot use both at the same time.

Step 4: Position the Cable

  1. Run the cable along your planned route.
  2. Position the detection sections where water would collect or flow in the event of a leak.
  3. If wrapping around a pipe, ensure the cable makes contact with the pipe surface at the areas you want to monitor.

Step 5: Test the Installation

Always test the PlumSense cable after installation to confirm it is working:

  1. With the cable plugged into the PlumAssist puck, dab a wet towel on the detection section of the cable.
  2. What you should see: The indicator light on the PlumAssist puck lights up.
  3. What you should hear: An audible alarm sounds from the PlumAssist puck.
  4. What you should receive: A push notification on your phone (if the PlumAssist is synced to the app).
  5. Check the app to confirm the correct PlumAssist triggered the alarm.

Clearing the Test Alarm

  1. Dry the cable completely.
  2. Wait 5 seconds.
  3. Clear the alarm in the PlumBuddy app.

Maintenance

  • Inspect periodically: Check the cable for damage, kinks, or wear every few months.
  • Keep dry when not detecting: The cable should be dry under normal conditions. If it is in an area with frequent moisture (like condensation), make sure the moisture does not cause false alarms.
  • Cleaning: Wipe the cable with a dry cloth to remove dust or residue that could reduce detection sensitivity.

Important Notes

  • PlumSense does not have its own battery, WiFi connection, or app presence. It functions entirely through the PlumAssist puck it is connected to.
  • If the PlumAssist puck is paired with a PlumBuddy Valve, water detected by the PlumSense cable will trigger automatic valve shutoff just like a detection on the puck itself.
  • If you need to monitor multiple areas that are far apart, use separate PlumAssist pucks rather than trying to stretch a single PlumSense cable across a long distance.