Protect yourself from fire and flooding with next-gen Roost detection devices

By Lulu Chang Published October 4, 2017

Roost — Image used with permission by copyright holder

We first introduced you to Roost last summer, the smart device that can help you save money and the planet as well by alerting you to leaks and freezes. The device was officially launched in January, and Roost is now unveiling the second generation of its Smart Battery and Smart Water Leak and Freeze Detector. Promising new electronics and improved Wi-Fi provisioning, these upgraded versions promise faster and easier setup, alongside superior performance and reliability.

Both products are intended to keep your loved ones and your home safe from two different disasters — fires and water damage. Thanks to its free companion app and Wi-Fi technology, the Roost Smart Battery turns your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms into smart, connected devices. Meanwhile, the Roost Smart Water Leak and Freeze Detector will alert you to water leaks, as well as to potential humidity and freezing issues that could affect your pipes. You can place the device anywhere that might be most susceptible to these problems, and get smartphone alerts anytime a situation arises.

Recommended Videos

With these second-generation products, Roost claims that both detectors can be fully set up in less than five minutes. The new process features a silent wireless connection method, whereas new electronics level up on performance while reducing power consumption. Plus, Roost says that customers can expect improved reliability and a more robust connection between Roost devices and the Roost cloud.

Please enable Javascript to view this content

“Consumers and home insurance providers have been searching for decades for technology solutions to mitigate loss from both fire and water emergencies,” said Roel Peeters, co-founder and CEO of Roost. “To meet both these needs, as well as to disruptively improve engagement between insurers and consumers, we developed the Roost smart sensor platform. Now we have made both even better by simplifying the setup process and improving the devices’ day-to-day operation.”

You can buy the second-generation Roost Smart Water Leak and Freeze Detector now for $50, while the upgraded Roost Smart Battery will be available in mid-November for $35. So if you’re interested in upgrading your capacity to protect your home, head on over to Getroost.com and have a look.

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Fascinated by the effects of technology on human interaction, Lulu believes that if her parents can use your new app…

Smart Home

Jackery’s new solar panels are indistinguishable from your roof

jackerys new solar panels are indistinguishable from your roof jwholehome

When you think of solar panels on a home, what's the first thing that comes to mind? In most cases, it's the square, black photovoltaic cells. While those do work, they aren't the most aesthetically pleasing. This is an issue, especially in communities with draconic HOAs. The Jackery Solar Roof offers an attractive alternative that's practically indistinguishable from terracotta roofing tiles.

The Solar Roof has a conversion rate of over 25%. That might not sound like a lot, but the average efficiency rating of solar panels is typically between 15% and 22%, putting Jackery far ahead of the pack. These panels are tougher than a normal roof, too; they're impact and hail resistant and come with a 30-year warranty. That's right, 30 years (and the average lifespan of a normal roof is only 20 years).

Smart Home

This Keurig coffee maker is nearly half-price after a $70 discount

The Keurig K-Classic on a counter.

For those who are planning to buy a coffee maker, we highly recommend checking out Keurig deals, especially this one from Amazon: the Keurig K-Classic for only $80, following a limited-time discount of $70 on its regular price of $150. There's no telling how long you've got before you miss out on the savings, so if you're interested in this coffee maker and you want to get it for nearly half-price, you're going to have to complete your transaction for it as soon as possible.

Why you should buy the Keurig K-Classic coffee maker
If you need coffee to wake up in the morning and get through sluggish afternoons, then you're going to want a coffee maker in your kitchen or home office. You can't go wrong with the Keurig K-Classic, which uses the brand's K-Cup Pods to make different types of coffee. There's no need to grind the coffee beans yourself, or to create the mixtures by hand -- just pop the K-Cup Pod into your Keurig K-Classic, choose between cup sizes of 6 ounces, 8 ounces, or 10 ounces, and your coffee will be ready in less than a minute.

Smart Home

The Dreame Z1 Pro Robotic Pool Cleaner takes the hassle out of pool maintenance

the dreame z1 pro robotic pool cleaner takes hassle out of maintenance img 6328

Robot vacuums are out. Robot pool cleaners are in (the deep end). In addition to the noteworthy Dreame X50 Ultra, the company has introduced the Z1 Pro robotic pool cleaner. At first glance, it looks like the world's bulkiest robovac. With large treads instead of wheels and dual brushes on the front, the Z1 Pro looks like a cross between a tank and spaceship.

There's a reason it's significantly larger than household bots, though. Navigating through the water is more difficult from a physical standpoint, but it's also trickier for the navigation system. The Z1 Pro utilizes a combination of ultrasound, 3D structured light, and infrared to make its way through the depths, but what stands out most is its ability to handle elevation shifts. Early models of robot pool cleaners struggled with dips in the floor of the pool, but the Z1 Pro can clean not just the floor but also the walls (by literally climbing them) and the surface of the water. It will float atop your pool and act as a skimmer, too.