Water leakage from water mains is a problem faced by many homes and commercial premises. It can lead to an increase in water bills and also cause damage to the structure of the house and the underground environment. Therefore, it is very important to regularly test your water mains for leaks. In this article, we will introduce several methods to detect whether the tap water pipe is leaking or not.
1. Visual inspection
This is the most direct method. If you notice wetness or puddling near the ground, or notice abnormal plant growth or ground subsidence, this may indicate a leak in the underground water pipe.
2. Leak sound detection
At night or in a very quiet environment, you can use a stethoscope or a pipe leak detector to detect if there are any sounds generated by water leaks around your pipes. Place the device on the ground and listen carefully for the sound of water flowing through the pipes. If there is a constant gurgling or ticking sound, this may indicate a leak.
3. Pressure Test
Turn off the water supply valve and record the meter reading. Then wait for a period of time (e.g. 15-30 minutes) and check the water meter reading again. If you notice a change in the meter reading, even if you are not using the water supply, this may indicate a leak in the underground water pipe.
4. Thermal Imaging Detection
Using an infrared thermal imager, you can detect the presence of areas of abnormal temperatures in underground water pipes. Water leaks can cause the ambient temperature around the pipe to rise slightly, and this temperature abnormality can be observed with a thermal imager.
5. Underground Water Pipe Leak Detector
This is a specialized tool that can be used to detect leaks in underground water pipes. Using a probe inserted into the underground water pipe, indicators such as pressure and sound are utilized to detect the presence of leaks.
Overall, it is very important to regularly check your water pipes for leaks. By employing the above methods, you can effectively detect the presence of leaks in your water mains and take timely measures to repair them, thus ensuring a normal water supply to your home and commercial premises, as well as protecting the environment and reducing your expenses.
