Detection device for electrically conductive fluids

Abstract

A device for detecting the presence of electrically conductive fluids, and upon such detection functioning to provide an audio alarm signal, and/or terminate electrical power to equipment that is causing fluid leakage. When used in conjunction with a washing machine, wherein the tube over-flows, or the pump or pump discharge hose leaks to cause water spillage, or where leakage occurs from the machine's cold or hot water supply hoses, the device will operate to deactivate the water pump and water supply solenoid valves, and provide an audio signal. Also, the device may be used to provide an audio alarm signal, and/or provide electrical power to a stand-by emergency pump to withdraw fluids, and prevent flooding. The device features a fluid sensing unit and a control unit operating on 90 to 125 volts AC low current. The fluid sensing unit has adjacently disposed large surface area neutral and hot contacts to allow sufficient current to flow between contacts and through the electrically conductive fluid, to improve circuit breaker response. When fluid accumulates between the neutral and hot contacts, a circuit is completed to instantaneously trip the circuit breaker to control electrical power to the outlet socket, and activate the audio alarm.