Identifying and pinpointing slab leaks can be exceedingly challenging due to their concealed nature. These relatively common plumbing issues seldom show any visual indicators and, even then, they’re easily missable until they cause significant damage.
For this reason, specialists for slab leak detection in Riverside often approach the problem from several angles, using different methods to find leaking pipes with great accuracy. Today, we’ll be exploring some of these techniques to see how and why they’re utilized.
What are the methods of leak detection?
Today, professionals use a series of comprehensive tests to find underground leaks. In most cases, they combine different diagnostic procedures to ensure timely detection and pinpoint precision.
Visual inspection
While subtle, signs of underground leaks can sometimes be caught by a trained eye. This is, by far, the cheapest and easiest leak detection method, as it doesn’t involve using any high-end equipment. The major downside, however, is that visual inspection can only confirm the existence of the leak, but not its exact location.
Water meter reading
Another swift-and-easy method involves shutting off water in the building and monitoring the water meter. If the meter still runs, it may be a sign of an underground leak. Unfortunately, this method suffers from the same downsides as visual inspection, making it more of a “confirmation” than an identification tool.
Auditory method
This method involves using acoustic listening devices, such as ground microphones and so-called “listening sticks”, to detect the exact location of a water leak. They work by amplifying the noise water makes when escaping the pipe, allowing for precise detection. Acoustic devices’ only weakness is that they cannot detect silent leaks but, despite that, they remain one of the best, most essential tools in any plumber’s arsenal.
Dye testing
Dye testing involves introducing harmless, colored dye into the water system, so as to provide a visual indication of the leak. While precise, this method is slightly outdated and is nowadays used rarely, if no other immediate options are available.
Pressure testing
Also known as the “pressure drop method”, this technique involves isolating section by section of the piping system, pressurizing it, and then looking for significant PSI drops that indicate the existence of the leak. This method is also rarely used today, as it is highly invasive.
Thermal imaging
Thermal imaging utilizes infrared cameras (IRCs) to detect temperature variations between water in the pipes and leakage. This is one of the best, most reliable, and most effective leak detection methods, second only to the next entry on our list.
Electronic leak detection
If this was a top list of leak detection methods, this would be #1. Electronic leak detection utilizes devices capable of detecting fluctuations in electric currents created by water escaping the pipes, ensuring pinpoint accuracy for even minor leaks.
Slab penetration
The most invasive method of all, slab penetration involves unearthing the pipes in order to detect bursts. Due to it being extremely destructive and expensive, this technique is today used by leak detection companies only as a last resort.
Who performs precision-based slab leak detection near me in Riverside?
The Leak Detection Pros is the preferred provider of leak detection and repair services on either side of the Santa Ana River. Our specialists are extensively trained to use cutting-edge equipment and proven diagnostic methods, enabling them to identify the issue with the utmost precision and in a timely manner.
In addition, the techniques we use are minimally invasive yet exceedingly effective, thereby safeguarding your property, budget, and peace of mind. Reach out to us today and discover why so many Riverside residents place their trust in us!