Many homeowners can tell when they have a leak in their pipes by taking several steps, including checking the water meter and looking for signs of puddles. Other indicators include mold growth, musty odors and high water bills. 

However, hidden leaks can be difficult to find. This is why plumbers use a variety of tools and techniques to locate leaks, such as acoustic listening devices and thermal imaging scanners. 

Acoustic Listening Methods 

Besides obvious visual signs of a leak, like wet spots on the walls or ceiling, there are several other warning signals that homeowners should watch out for. A sudden spike in your water bill is one, and should be investigated immediately. Another, is unusual mold growth in the ceiling or walls. These are both clear indications that there is a water leak somewhere on your property. 

Plumbers can use acoustic listening methods to pinpoint the location of leaks. These devices resemble high-tech stethoscopes and work on the simple principle that when water escapes a pipe, it makes unique sounds that deviate from normal operational noises. These devices amplify and isolate the sounds of escaping water, and when moved around the property, will lead plumbers to the source of the leak. This allows them to get to work fixing the leak without needing to disturb any living areas. This method is also helpful in locating underground leaks, as it detects vibrations and sound waves that can’t be detected through the surface of the ground. 

Thermal Imaging Scanners 

As a homeowner, it’s important to keep an eye out for unexplained wet spots on your walls and floors. Also be sure to check the back of cabinets and under sinks for signs of mold growth or musty smells – these are both common indications that you may have a leak. 

While you can do some things to help find a water leak yourself, such as turning off your water and checking the water meter, many of the best methods require professional equipment. Plumbers use a variety of tools and techniques to locate leaks, including acoustic listening devices and thermal imaging scanners. 

These tools can often detect a leak without having to break open walls or floors, reducing costs and disruption to your home. They work by picking up the infrared energy that is emitted from all objects, such as heat or cold, and then creating an image showing where these differences are most prominent. These images can then be interpreted by your plumber to pinpoint the location of the leak. 

Waterproof Cameras 

Designed to withstand the elements, waterproof cameras are rugged and durable.

They can withstand modest drops and work while submerged under water making them perfect for exploring coral reefs or walking through dense forests. Some even come with accessories and mounts that make them perfect for use on surfboards or helmets. 

One of the most common ways plumbers detect leaks is with thermal imaging scanners. These cameras can find hidden leaks behind walls and under floors by detecting temperature differences. This technology is non-invasive and causes no damage to your property. 

Another important tool plumbers use to detect leaks is their own professional training. Experienced plumbers know how to recognize the signs of a leak and can quickly narrow down the search area without the need for expensive equipment. This is why it’s so important to have routine leak detection services performed on your home or business. This preventative measure can save you a lot of money and avert serious damage in the future. 

Water Meter Testing 

Sometimes plumbers can spot leaks simply by doing a visual inspection. Mold growth, musty odors, or damp areas around appliances can indicate a water leak. However, many leaks aren’t as obvious and require specialized equipment to locate. 

One of the most common signs of a leak is an increase in your water bill without a change in usage. Shut off all faucets, irrigation systems, and fountains and check your water meter. Write down the reading and come back in an hour to see if it has changed. If the meter reading has changed, it indicates that there is a leak somewhere in the house or garden. 

Plumbers can also use listening discs that can hear water leaking through pipes underground. These devices amplify the sounds of leaking water and can be used to identify the source of a leak even when it is hidden beneath concrete or brick. This allows the plumber to save time and money by avoiding unnecessary excavation. Sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/plumber-melbourne/ have more information about plumbing leaks and services.