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Acoustic Leak Detection

Hear what you cannot see. Our advanced acoustic detection equipment amplifies the sound of water movement, allowing us to pinpoint active leaks inside pipes, walls, and ceilings with precision accuracy.

How Acoustic Detection Works

When water escapes from a pipe under pressure, it creates a distinctive sound. This sound travels through the pipe and surrounding materials. Our acoustic detection equipment uses highly sensitive microphones to pick up these sounds, even through walls, floors, and ceilings.

By taking readings at multiple points, we can triangulate the exact location of the leak. The sound is loudest directly over the leak, allowing us to mark the precise spot for repairs.

The Science of Sound

  • Water under pressure creates vibrations when escaping
  • These vibrations travel through pipe walls and surrounding materials
  • Our equipment amplifies frequencies specific to water leaks
  • Sound intensity increases as we approach the leak location

Ideal for Detecting

Pressurized pipe leaks
Supply line failures
Underground leaks
Wall-hidden pipes
Slab leaks
Main water lines
Sprinkler systems
Radiant heating

Benefits of Acoustic Detection

Pinpoint Accuracy

Locate leaks to within inches, minimizing the area that needs to be opened for repairs.

  • Precise location marking
  • Reduced repair area
  • Less damage to property

Works Through Obstacles

Detect leaks through concrete, walls, soil, and other materials without excavation.

  • No digging required
  • Works on any pipe material
  • Detects deep leaks

Active Leak Detection

Especially effective for active, pressurized leaks where water is currently escaping.

  • Real-time detection
  • Immediate results
  • Confirms active leaks

When Acoustic Detection Is Best

Acoustic detection is most effective for certain types of leaks. We often combine it with thermal imaging for comprehensive results.

Ideal Situations

  • Active leaks in pressurized water supply lines
  • Underground pipe leaks beneath concrete
  • Leaks in walls where pipes are not visible
  • Main water line leaks outside the building
  • Radiant floor heating system leaks
  • Fire sprinkler system leaks

Less Effective For

  • -Drain line leaks (no pressure = minimal sound)
  • -Intermittent or very slow leaks
  • -Condensation issues
  • -Roof leaks (no piping involved)
  • -Building envelope water intrusion
  • -Areas with high background noise

Our Acoustic Detection Process

1

System Assessment

We evaluate your plumbing system and suspected leak area

2

Sound Scanning

Using sensitive microphones to listen along pipe routes

3

Triangulation

Multiple readings to pinpoint the exact leak location

4

Confirmation

Verifying findings and marking the precise spot for repair

Combined Detection Approach

We often use acoustic detection in combination with thermal imaging for the most accurate results. Thermal imaging shows where moisture has spread, while acoustic detection pinpoints the exact source of active leaks.

Hear Your Hidden Leaks

Suspect a plumbing leak you cannot see? Our acoustic detection technology can find it. Contact us today.