Water Leak Detection

Is your water bill unexpectedly high, leaving you puzzled? Let us help you diagnose the issue.

Finding and fixing water leaks is incredibly important for today’s water systems. Leaks waste valuable water and lead to high costs, damage infrastructure, and make water networks less efficient. While many traditional leak detection methods exist, tracer gas techniques have proved to be exceptionally efficient and effective.We use this incredibly effective technique to pinpoint those elusive leaks in all sorts of places.

Man worried about High Water Bill
Man worried about High Water Bill

Tracer Gas Leak Detection Method

The tracer gas leak detection method is a sophisticated approach that involves the introduction of a non-toxic, non-corrosive gas – commonly helium or hydrogen – into a pressurized water pipeline system.

Tracer gas is introduced, from a cylinder of gas, into the leaking pipe. The gas contains hydrogen, which will exit at the leak point and make its way to the surface where it is detected by a highly sensitive [Variotec 460] gas detector.

Tracer Gas Leak Detection Advantages

  • 1

    Sensitivity: Due to their small molecular size, these gases can detect even the smallest of leaks, offering a level of detection sensitivity that is unparalleled in other leak detection methods.

  • 2

    Non-Invasive Nature: Unlike some traditional leak detection methods, it does not necessitate extensive excavation or cause major disruptions to the pipeline infrastructure.

  • 3

    Accuracy and Precision: Tracer gas methods are not only sensitive but also highly accurate. They enable precise leak localization, which significantly reduces the time and resources spent on leak repair and maintenance.

Man worried about High Water Bill

Call Biggs Plumbers

Whether it’s your home or business in the Eastern Cape, you can rest assured your drains are in good hands.

Application Use Cases

At Biggs Plumbers we use Tracer Gas, a leak detection method which is a highly effective and non-invasive
to find elusive leaks in various plumbing systems
.

Underground Pipes

Locating water leaks in buried pipes is simplified by using a tracer gas. A mixture of 5% hydrogen and 95% nitrogen is introduced into the pipe; the hydrogen escapes through any cracks and is detected at the surface, pinpointing the leak.

Underfloor Heating Systems

Leaks in underfloor heating pipes can cause significant damage and be challenging to find without destructive methods. Tracer gas allows plumbers to locate these leaks precisely, minimizing the need for extensive demolition.

Pipes in Walls and Ceilings

Similar to underfloor systems, tracer gas technology effectively locates leaks in pipes that are concealed out of sight within walls or ceilings, thereby preventing widespread and unnecessary damage to expensive finished surfaces.

Customer Supply Pipes

Leaks in the main water line supplying a property, often buried in the yard, can lead to high water bills and property damage. Tracer gas helps to accurately locate these leaks.

Central Heating Systems

Tracer gas can also be effectively used to detect leaks in central heating and boiler systems. The process is similar to that used in swimming pools, but it is tailored to the specific components and conditions of heating systems.

Swimming Pool Pipes

Tracer gas is an effective in detecting leaks in swimming pools due to its ability to permeate through small openings and provide clear indications of where leaks are occurring resulting in targeted repairs rather than extensive excavation.

Tracer gas methods represent a significant advancement in the field of water leak detection. Their sensitivity, accuracy, and non-invasive nature make them an invaluable tool, especially in situations where other detection methods have been less effective. Contact us if you having difficulty in determining the location of a water leak and let Biggs Plumbers help you find that elusive water leak.

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