Leak detection is an important part of maintaining your home plumbing system. Even a small leak can lead to water damage if left undetected and unresolved. There are many different methods to detect leaks, from traditional methods like visual inspection to more advanced techniques such as acoustic detection and thermal imaging. At Bobby L Greene Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Co. in Shreveport, LA, we take leak detection seriously. Our goal is always to help homeowners maintain their plumbing systems and keep their property and loved ones safe from leak damage. Read on to learn more about effective leak detection strategies and what you can do to find and fix leaks before they escalate into costly repairs.
Visual Inspection
Visual inspection is typically the first step taken in leak detection. With a visual inspection, the homeowner and professional plumber will thoroughly inspect the property’s interior and exterior.
The goal is to look for signs of water damage. Water damage typically appears on walls, floors, and ceilings through bubbling paint, discoloration, stains, and musty odors. We will also check the insulation in crawl spaces and basements for signs of moisture. In addition, we will inspect for indications of mold growth, which usually means there is an ongoing issue. Finally, we inspect the outside of your home and check for overly green grass or puddles of pooled water. These could indicate a leak in your sewer system.
Pressure Testing
Pressure testing is a way to test for leaks that involves pressurizing the plumbing system. It works by closing off all valves and sealing the system so that water or air can be pumped in at high pressure. If there is any drop in pressure, then we know that a leak exists within the system. There should be no drop in pressure since the system has been fully sealed off. This method is a great technique for finding leaks that are underground or within walls that are difficult to inspect visually. Professional plumbers can help you decide whether it makes sense to test with air or water. Each plumbing system has its own requirements. Pressure testing should only be conducted by qualified professionals to avoid damaging the internal structure of your pipes.
Moisture Meters
Moisture meters are great tools for leak detection because they make it possible to find excess moisture, which can mean that there is a leak. These devices work by measuring the moisture content in materials that make up walls, ceilings, floors, wood, drywall, and concrete. If we detect elevated moisture levels, then we know that there is most likely a leak that is contributing to those levels. We use moisture meters to narrow down the search area for water and can pinpoint where we need to dig deeper by opening up the floor, wall, or ceiling. These devices and other noninvasive techniques allow us to avoid causing unnecessary damage to the interior of your home.
Acoustic Detection
Acoustic leak detection relies on sound to find leaks in your plumbing system. We use specialized equipment to listen to your pipes and check for the sound of water. Water makes sounds such as hissing, gurgling, or splashing as it leaks out of fittings, joints, and pipes, but it’s challenging to hear without amplifying the sound. Acoustic detection is particularly effective at finding water leaks under slab foundations.
Thermal Imaging
Thermal imaging is another useful technique for leak detection. Thermal cameras are used to detect temperature variations in the pipes. When we see temperature changes along the pipe, we’re able to pinpoint where the leak is coming from and how we can fix it.
A leaky cold or hot water line is fairly easy to spot with this type of technology since it will usually show that there is a spot that is hotter or colder than everything around it. Plumbing technicians can find hidden leaks behind walls, under floors, and above ceilings without causing any structural damage to your home. This is one of the best techniques for areas that are difficult to reach without removing drywall or flooring.
Smart Leak Detection Systems: Real-Time Monitoring
Smart leak detection systems use advanced technology to monitor water usage and detect leaks in real time. These systems use sensors that are placed in key areas throughout the home, such as under sinks, in basements, and near appliances. When a leak is detected, the system sends an alert to the homeowner’s smartphone or other connected devices so that action can be taken. These smart leak detection systems make it possible to identify leaks early on and fix them before they escalate into serious problems. We can install smart leak detection systems in your home and help you choose the most effective model for your needs.
How Plumbers Address Leaks
If our plumber identifies a leak in your plumbing system, their next step is to initiate the repair process. This typically begins with shutting off the water supply to prevent further leakage and potential water damage.
Depending on the severity and location of the leak, they may need to access the affected pipe or fixture, which could involve cutting into walls or floors. Once the source of the leak is exposed, the plumber will assess the damage and determine the most appropriate repair method. This could involve patching a small leak, replacing a damaged section of pipe, or installing new fittings or fixtures.
After completing the repair, the plumber will test the system to ensure your plumbing is functioning correctly. Finally, they will clean up any mess created during the repair process and talk to you about how to prevent future leaks.
Preventative Measures
Preventative measures can help you minimize the risk of leaks within your plumbing system. Regular inspections and maintenance can identify potential issues before they turn into costly problems. You can perform your own maintenance checks, but we suggest contacting a professional plumber who knows how to check for signs like loose fittings, worn-out seals, and corrosion. Homeowners should have their plumbing inspected by a professional at least once a year.
During an inspection, our team member may recommend replacing low-quality plumbing fixtures with high-quality alternatives to boost durability and longevity. Water pressure regulators and monitoring systems can also prevent future issues. In addition, proper insulation in crawl spaces and basements can prevent pipes from freezing and bursting in colder seasons.
Contact the Pros
At Bobby L Greene Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Co., we are a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the residents of Shreveport, LA, since 1959. We install, repair, and maintain heating and cooling systems. Since opening our doors, we have also gained and maintained a reputation for the ability to identify any issue homeowners may have with their plumbing system and fixing it quickly. Our plumbing services include leak detection, backflow testing and prevention, repiping, and repairing plumbing fixtures like faucets and toilets. We can also address any problems you may experience with your sewer system, including a complete replacement if necessary.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced plumbers.
