A plumber fixing a leak.

Any pipe can break and start leaking. If not repaired, the leak can cause significant damage to buildings and create unsafe situations. The trouble is leaks often happen in hard-to-reach areas, such as inside walls and underground. Fortunately, different types of equipment are available to plumbers to help detect leaks. Without leak detection technology, searching for plumbing leaks can be extremely expensive, time-consuming, and detrimental to a home. To help locate leaks, plumbers at Bewley Plumbing use electronic leak detection. In this blog post, we will look at what electronic leak detection is, how it works, its advantages, and go over several frequently asked questions.

Please be aware that plumbing leak detection should only be performed by a trained and licensed plumber.

What Is an Electronic Leak Detector?

Electronic leak detection is one of the leading methods plumbers use to find leaks. An electronic leak detector is a device that uncovers hidden plumbing leaks using different sound frequencies. A trained plumber can use this technology to determine the exact location of a plumbing leak. 

Understanding the Technology

Water echoes as it moves through pipes. When a pipe leaks, it makes a specific sound when water passes through the leaking area. Because the leak does not make much noise, a plumber must use electronic leak detection technology to hear it. Electronic leak detection uses microphones, filters, and digital amplifiers to allow a plumber to listen to these sounds and identify a leaking pipe. 

This modern leak detection method is superior to older methods involving extensive and invasive searches for the leak.

Benefits of Electronic Leak Detection

Given its efficiency, there are several advantages to using an electronic leak detector. 

Some of its advantages include the following:

  • Detects leaks effectively
  • Saves money and time
  • Helps prevent structural damage to buildings
  • Accuracy and reliability

How Does an Electronic Leak Detector Work?

A picture of an underground pipe.

Even a minor leak makes noise, and electronic leak detectors use a transducer to detect this noise and identify the leak’s location. When the equipment detects sound, it amplifies it and sends it to the security system at a higher frequency. A plumber can determine the leak’s location based on the sound and information the electronic leak detector produces. 

Detection Devices and Tools

Plumbers rely on several pieces of equipment when using electronic leak detection technology. The following are some, but not all, of the equipment used, as certain surfaces may call for different gear. A plumber will use a specially-made microphone to pick up the sound, headphones to listen for the leak carefully, and an amplification device to enhance the sound.

Process of Leak Detection

As mentioned above, water makes noise as it flows through a pipe, and water leaking out of a pipe makes a specific sound. A plumber can detect where that sound is coming from with special sensors.

When the plumber finds the leaking pipe, they can alter the pressure in the line to make a specific sound. This sound allows the plumber to pinpoint the source of the leak. Depending on the circumstances, the sound made when the water leaks out of the pipe can vary, making training critical.

Applications of Electronic Leak Detection in Plumbing

Electronic leak detection can be used in residential and commercial buildings. 

Residential Leak Detection

Electronic leak detection is a valuable tool in many parts of residential plumbing, including kitchens, bathrooms, underground pipes, and more. 

Commercial Leak Detection

The larger a building, the harder it can be to find leaks—and there are more places that leaks can damage. Business owners and property managers can use electronic leak detection technology to minimize damage from water leaks.

Why Choose Bewley Plumbing for Electronic Leak Detection? 

using a camera to go into a sewer

As a trusted name in plumbing with many awards and five-star reviews, Bewley Plumbing stands ready to offer exceptional leak detection services.

Experience and Expertise 

We have a history of providing advanced plumbing solutions, including electronic leak detection. Our experts know how to use electronic leak detection, saving you time and money. 

Precision and Efficiency

With our expert use of electronic leak detection, we take the guesswork out of searching for leaks. Because of this, we won’t have to tear up large sections of your home searching for the source of a leak.

Plumbing Services in Collin and Denton Counties, Texas

If you believe you have a water leak or another plumbing problem at your property in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the professionals at Bewley Plumbing can help you. We use electronic leak detectors to identify leaks. When we find them, our professionals will fix them correctly. Founded in 1947, our woman-owned company has earned many awards and five-star reviews. 

We look forward to helping you with your plumbing needs. Be sure to inquire about our senior, teacher, and military discounts.

Our precision leak detection can save you time and hassle. Contact us to get an estimate or to request service.

FAQs

Why Do Water Leaks Occur?

There are several reasons why water leaks occur. Some of them include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Broken Seals
2. Clogged Lines
3. Corrosion
4. Incorrectly Laid Pipes
5. Damaged Pipe Joints
6. Underground Movement
7. High Water Pressure
8. Intruding Tree Roots
9. Loose Water Connectors
10. Cracked Fixtures

Can the Average Homeowner Use an Electronic Leak Detector?

No. A plumber will need specialized training and skills to use an electronic leak detector correctly.

Is Electronic Leak Detection Safe for Pipes?

Yes, it is used by many plumbers to detect leaks safely. 

How Reliable Is Electronic Leak Detection?

If a system can be pressure tested and isolated, a plumber with the proper training will be able to locate the source of a leak accurately. The plumbers at Bewley Plumbing have the training and tools to locate leaks in your home reliably and safely.

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