Tracer Gas Leak Detection
A safe tracer gas introduced into a drained line escapes at the leak point and is detected at the surface — ideal for tiny or silent leaks.
Detection Methods · Alhambra, CA
Acoustic Leak Detection in Alhambra, CA
Water escaping from a pressurised pipe makes a distinct sound — a hiss, whoosh or vibration that travels along the pipe and through surrounding material. Acoustic leak detection uses sensitive ground microphones, listening discs and correlating equipment to find where that sound is strongest, which is normally very close to the leak itself.
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week · Serving Alhambra & the San Gabriel Valley
Signs you may need this service
- A hissing or running-water sound when no tap is open
- A water bill that rose without a change in use
- A meter dial that keeps moving with all water off
- Damp or warm areas with no visible source
Individual symptoms do not always prove a leak — they justify a proper investigation, which is what this service provides.
What this service investigates
Pressurised hot and cold supply lines inside the home, under slabs, and in accessible underground runs — the lines most likely to produce a clear acoustic signal.
Who it is for
- Homes with a confirmed meter movement but no visible leak
- Properties with suspected slab or underground supply leaks
- Anyone who wants the location narrowed before any opening-up work
How the process works
1
Confirm water loss first with a meter check, so we know a leak exists before searching for it.
2
Isolate sections of the system where possible, to narrow the search area.
3
Listen along the pipe route with ground microphones and listening discs, mapping signal strength.
4
Cross-check the strongest point with a second method where conditions allow, then mark the location.
Equipment & methods
Electronic ground microphones, listening discs/stethoscope probes and, on longer runs, leak-noise correlation between two sensors.
What affects the diagnosis
Background noise (traffic, appliances, wind), deep pipe runs, thick slab, and some plastic pipe materials can weaken or distort the sound. Very small leaks may produce too little noise, in which case tracer gas or pressure testing may be added.
What you receive
A clearly explained finding, the marked leak location, and guidance on the repair options that follow — detection and repair are separate steps.
Read more: our guide related to acoustic leak detection · All services · Service areas
Acoustic Leak Detection FAQs
Can acoustic detection find a leak under concrete?
Often, yes. Sound from a pressurised leak travels through slab and soil and can usually be picked up at the surface. Depth, slab thickness and background noise affect precision, so the result is cross-checked where possible.
Does acoustic leak detection damage floors or walls?
No. The equipment listens from the surface. Any opening-up happens later, only for the repair itself, and only at the located point.
What if no sound can be heard?
A silent result does not prove there is no leak. Small or low-pressure leaks can be quiet; pressure testing or tracer gas may then be the better method. We explain which step makes sense and why.
How accurate is it?
In good conditions acoustic pinpointing is typically accurate to a small area rather than a whole room or yard. Accuracy is always stated honestly on the day, based on the conditions found.
Related services
Pipeline Pressure Testing
Isolating a line and monitoring its pressure confirms whether it leaks, and which section — hot or cold, inside or outside — is responsible.
Slab Leak Detection
Locating leaks in supply lines under a concrete slab — using meter confirmation, line isolation and acoustic, thermal or tracer-gas pinpointing.
Think you have a hidden leak?
The sooner a leak is confirmed and located, the less water is wasted and the less damage spreads. Call now, or send a short request and describe what you are seeing.
Open 24 hours, 7 days a week · 1065 Westminster Ave, Alhambra, CA 91803