Hidden leaks in your pipes can be frustrating for any homeowner. They can make noises that are disruptive. You’ll also have to pay for the leaking water, and potential water damage could lead to substantial repair costs. If you can’t find the leak yourself, it’s wise to stop playing detective and hire a plumber. They have expert tools and experience that will locate the leak and repair it quickly. Here’s how they do it.

The Ways Experienced Plumbers Find & Fix Leaks

Tools Plumbers Use

Professionals are able to find leaks based on their personal experience as well as some high-tech equipment. First, they’ll perform a walkthrough, checking fixtures and visible pipes. Sometimes, this is enough. If not, they might have to break out their equipment.

When water leaks out of a pipe, there’s a difference in temperature that can be detected, especially if it’s a hot water pipe. Plumbing professionals use a thermal scanner so they can find these temperature changes through drywall, concrete, and most other materials.

Another option is listening discs. Water escaping from a pipe creates a specific sound. Using one of these discs, a professional can hear the sound of water running even through some walls.

If a contractor wants to look at a pipe behind the walls, they can use video camera inspection equipment. A mini-camera and LED light are mounted on the end of a cable that can be snaked through the pipes. This lets them accurately assess the damage in areas that can’t be accessed without breaking through construction materials.

What to Do Once the Leak Is Found

Once the leak has been located, your plumber will determine the best way to repair it. This can vary from case to case and home to home. Sometimes it’s possible to avoid taking out building material, and they can put in a new pipeline to avoid the leaking section. When the fix is more invasive, the equipment used to find the leak is often employed again to determine the simplest way to fix things.

If you suspect you have a leaking pipe, contact the trusted plumbers at Murphy’s Plumbing Company in Mebane, NC. They’ve been providing residential plumbing services in the area since 1998. They offer some of the most competitive pricing in the area and welcome questions to figure out what plumbing services you might need. Visit their website to read customer testimonials or call 563-5165 to request an estimate.