Leak Detection Methods Plumbers Use

Leaks are one of the most common plumbing problems most homeowners experience. While some leaks are easy to notice, others go undetected for extended periods, as they mostly occur in out-of-sight places like behind the walls or underground. When hidden for too long, these leaks cause extensive damage to the property and drive up the water bills. Even a pinhole leak, irrespective of its size, can be just as destructive. 

One of the most pressing problems a hidden leak presents when it comes to repairs is its detection. Therefore, homeowners must hire a professional plumber to look into leak detection if they suspect a leak in the pipes. It is an essential service plumbing companies offer, and plumbers come equipped with special devices and tools to accurately track and detect the source of the leak and repair it quickly. 

In this article, we discuss the popular leak detection methods experienced plumbers use, depending on where the leak is, without defacing the property:

Visual inspection

Before using any tool, a plumber first inspects the home to look for signs of possible leaks, like warping, discoloration, standing water, musty smells, and other indications of water damage. They check fixtures, sinks, irrigation, and other systems to detect the problem areas. Plumbers have extensive knowledge of plumbing systems and years of experience in leak detection and repair. They notice the signs that are easy to miss for an average homeowner.

Drain inspection camera

Plumbers use a small closed-circuit video camera mounted on a long flexible cable to get a firsthand view of the pipes. They insert the camera into faucets and outlets to detect the position and the leak size, which is tough to spot externally. The camera transmits live images to a video monitor for the plumber to observe the pipe's internal condition. It is a fast and reliable method to discover the exact leak source, especially for the pipes behind walls and the underground pipes.

Acoustic listening devices

Plumbers use listening discs and ground microphones as a tool to pinpoint water leaks through sounds. These devices amplify the dripping water sound when pressed against a surface, making it easier to hear it through cabinets, drywall, and furnishings. Plumbers also use disc plates to detect leaks under concrete, bricks, and stone surfaces.

Infrared thermal imaging

Infrared thermal imaging cameras or heat scanners detect water leaks and moisture, especially in hot water pipes hidden under drywall, floorboards, concrete, and soils. When water leaks from a line, it changes the temperature around it. When the camera scans a source of the suspected leak, the image relayed on the monitor points to temperature difference in the area exposed to the outside air. Plumbers require special skills and advanced training to use this method.

Soil probe

Sewer and water mainline leaks are a nightmare for homeowners. Leaks in the lines running under a property's yard are tough to detect and address. Plumbers use a soil probe to identify pressurized leaks underneath soil, grass, and rocks. The velocity of the sound increases as the equipment nears the leak. It eliminates the need to dig up the property to locate leaks.

A plumber decides the right course of action once they have located the water leak using one of the methods mentioned above. 

Frontier Plumbing of Las Vegas is a full-service commercial and residential plumbing company offering a full spectrum of plumbing services. We are determined to exceed your expectations! Call 702-602-6705 today!