Leak Detector Using Capacitance Sensor

A system that holds a liquid such as water includes an electrode coupling the system to a surface. A capacitance sensor is coupled to the electrode. A processor is coupled to the capacitance sensor. The processor is adapted to receive a signal from the capacitance sensor to determine whether the liquid is present at the surface and to send one or more indication signals if liquid is present at the surface. A response circuit coupled to the processor causes the system to take responsive action in response to receipt of an indication signal. Responsive action includes causing the system to perform a failsafe action, such as automatic shutdown. A communication circuit notifies a user that a fault has occurred in the system over a network.