Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)I placed the 3-function unit in an uninhabited "second home" that was for sale.
Having always been nervous that the boiler would stop working, and that the house would "freeze", this seemed like a wise investment.
The first time it called me it claimed the power was off ("beep beep").
Upon investigation (a short drive) power was indeed off - for whole block.
The second time it called me, it claimed there was a water problem ("beep beep beep").
I ran over only to find that the boiler's B&G circulator pump had failed catastrophically. Water was running out of the point where the pump's motor joins with the pump (the shaft seal). Because I was alerted and able to get to house quickly, the cleanup required only a mop and bucket.
I know people who are afraid to leave their homes in the winter "in case something happens". This machine should provide them with much comfort.
Several issues:
(1)The THP201 attaches to your analog phone line and calls out (to up to three pre-programmed numbers) when it detects a problem. If you have a standard "old fashioned" POTS line (i.e., copper loop powered by the Telco's central office) this is fine. These phone lines work w/o power in your house.
If you have phone service via a cable modem, the THP201 will be less effective. If power fails, so too will your cable modem. The THP201 will not get a dial tone when it goes off-hook.
(2)The unit comes with only one water sensor. This requires that you give a lot of thought as to where water is likely to collect in case of a problem.
It would be better if the THP201 accepted two or three water sensors (sold as options). Then one sensor could be placed near the laundry room, one near the hot water heater and one, perhaps, by the boiler.
(3) The unit has no alphanumeric display. Thus there is no easy way to verify that the phone number you entered is correct without testing the device.
I would recommend that you do just that. It is easy to get a digit wrong (fail to press a key fully) and enter the wrong phone number. You can test it either by using the test button, or by unplugging unit's power cord (to simulate power outage) or by placing a wet sponge against the water detector.
Leave the instructions with the unit; at some time in the future you will need to refer to them. The set-up interface is not obvious.
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Reliance Controls THP201 Automatic Phone Out Alarm with 3 FunctionsPower failure, freeze, and flood home monitoring system. Monitors homes, condos, cottages, outbuildings, cabins, business, etc. Automatically calls up to 3 different owner programmed phone numbers with a clear voice message in the event of: Power failure, freezing, condtiions, water leakage, or flooding. Freeze warning activates at 45 F. Connects to existing telephone lines and installs in minutes with no special wiring required. Selectable 5 or 15 minute initial call out delay, will continue calling for up to 10 hours if needed. 9V battery backup included. FCC approved.
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