Plumbing is a system that transports fluid across pipes and valves. It also involves installing and maintaining plumbing systems. A plumber’s main job after installation is to maintain the system. This involves detecting and fixing leaky pipes. Here is more information about how plumbers do so:
Detecting a Leak Source
During a leak inspection, a plumber may first move around the residence to check for any visible signs. This may entail looking for wet surfaces under the sink or pathways of the pipes. Irregularities in water consumption may indicate a leak in the plumbing system. After concluding there is a leak in the system, the plumber will need special equipment to identify the source. The following are ways plumbers find leak sources:
Visual Inspection
A visual inspection entails using cameras to find the precise source of a leak. Plumbing companies use miniature cameras that are driven in a pipe to the point of inspection. After they are connected via a fiber optic cable, technicians will see the feed on a monitor. The technicians will view the pipe’s condition and pinpoint the leak’s source. Whether the pipe is shallow or deep underground, technicians can easily identify the specific cause of the leak’s source.
Acoustics
A dripping sound might be the first indicator that there is a water leak. Plumbers have special equipment that helps them amplify the sound. Listening discs are one of the devices used to identify leaks through surfaces like dry walls and furnishings. These devices amplify the sound back into headphones and a skilled technician can identify the source of the leak. This technique saves time and helps plumbers pinpoint a leak before accessing it.
Thermal Imaging
Thermal imaging uses an infrared camera to record surface heat. This procedure is used in plumbing where the human eye cannot detect a leak. Plumbers use thermal imaging to identify hot water pipes beneath surfaces. Thermal cameras provide images that can detect moisture on surfaces where regular moisture meters may not reach. These devices ease the load of inspecting large areas as images come with accurate measurements. This technique can find leak sources with minimal disruption with no need for property damage.
Soil Inspection
Plumbing systems that run deep underground might make it hard to detect leaks. Soil inspection is the technique plumbers may use to find the source of the leak in this scenario. This technique involves listening to the pressure sounds through dirt and rock. Experienced plumbers can listen to the amplified sound and find the source of the leak. The plumber will analyze the sound of the pressure to identify the type of leak.
Fixing Leaks
There are various ways plumbers can fix a leak after finding the source. Here is a list of how leaks may be fixed:
Pipe Repair
Pipe repair involves sealing a leak with epoxy or using a sleeve to reinforce a damaged area. Plumbers use this technique on leaks that have not damaged your system. If a plumber identifies a leak early on, they will be able to quickly repair the pipe. This method of repair is an inexpensive and efficient option.
Pipe Replacement
In pipe replacement, plumbers remove entire sections of your plumbing system. This method is applied to extensively damaged pipes or old systems. Pipe replacement may entail some damage when laying the new pipe and can be a more expensive option.
Joint Sealing
Joint sealing involves sealing sections of pipes using tape or joint compound pipes. Plumbers may use tape or reseal joints to prevent further leaks. This is a fairly quick and inexpensive solution to leaks.
Corrosion Control
Plumbers will address corroded pipes that are causing leaks. They may install non-corrosive pipes to replace the corroded pipes. Corrosion inhibitors can be added to the water supply as a preventive measure.
Find Experienced Plumbers for Leaky Pipes
Experienced and capable plumbing companies are needed to detect and fix leaks in your plumbing system. Securing a plumbing agency that uses up-to-date devices and techniques to identify leaky sources and fix them can prolong the lifespan of your plumbing system. Reputable plumbers will be able to quickly replace sections or entire pipes and help you get your system up and running as soon as possible. Contact a reputable plumbing company today for quality services.
