SimpliSafe Water Sensor teardown

We’re always interested in clever engineering and unique design challenges, which is why we chose the SimpliSafe Water Sensor for our next teardown. This tiny, 2 x 1 x 2 inch device solves the issue of sealing up a battery compartment while still detecting water on the underside of the product. It warranted a deeper look. Seeing what design choices are made in a product can sometimes help inform future waterproofed projects we work on. SimpliSafe’s use of metal pins and a second PCB, for example, is clever, but adds extra costs and complexity.

We looked at the battery door and noted a cool twist-to-lock feature they used, ideal for parts that need to be user-accessible without needing fasteners. They also took a neat approach to the waterproof pairing button and the simple, effective battery holder design.

The device is small and mighty, but there’s room for improvements, specifically in simplifying construction of the sensor and reducing production cost. We take an in-depth look and then offer our recommendations for making the design even more efficient and effective.

For a look at how another device keeps the electronics inside it dry, check out part 1 and part 2 of our Wyze doorbell teardown. 

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