Water leaks can be incredibly destructive. They can cause extensive damage to your property and lead to costly repairs, as well as renovation work. While some leaks are obvious and easily detectable, hidden leaks can often go unnoticed until the damage becomes more severe, resulting in more time and money to fix the problem. 

If you’re concerned about hidden leaks in your property and you’re wondering when you should get in touch with a leak detection company, keep reading today. Below we have explored the potential damage that hidden leaks can cause and common signs that you may have a hidden leak somewhere. We have also listed some of the various expert methods leak detection specialists use to identify these hidden problems.

The Damage Hidden Leaks Can Cause

As the name suggests, hidden leaks aren’t visible to the eye and they often occur behind walls, beneath floors or within the ceiling structure of your property. As a result, they can cause significant damage over time before you even realise they exist. Here are some of the potential problems associated with hidden leaks;

Structural Damage

Prolonged exposure to water can weaken the structural integrity of your property. It may lead to rotting wood, deteriorating drywall or compromised foundations, all of which require extensive and costly repairs. When structural elements of your home become compromised, it impacts the safety and stability of the entire building.

Damp and Mould Growth 

Hidden leaks create a damp environment, resulting in mould growth. In addition to being unsightly and causing unpleasant odours, mould can cause health risks to your family. Inhaling mould spores can lead to respiratory issues, allergies and other health problems, making mould a silent threat to your well-being.

Increased Utility Bills

Leaks, even hidden ones, can waste a significant amount of water over time. This results in higher water bills and if left unattended, it can lead to huge financial losses over time. Consistently rising utility bills can become a financial burden and be a clear indication that water is leaking from pipes somewhere in your home. 

Electrical Hazards

Water and electricity don’t mix. Hidden leaks near electrical wiring can pose serious safety risks, including electrical shorts and fires. Electrical hazards are not only a threat to your property but also to the safety of your family. Identifying and addressing hidden leaks promptly can prevent potentially life-threatening situations.

Common Signs You Have a Hidden Leak

While hidden leaks can be challenging to spot, they often cause subtle signs that something is wrong. Here are some common indicators that you may have a hidden leak and you should contact a water leak detection company straight away; 

Unexplained Water Bill Increases

As mentioned above, a sudden and unexplained increase in your water bills can indicate that there is water escaping somewhere in your plumbing system. Depending on where the leak is, you may notice an increase in your utility bills before you notice any water damage. 

Mysterious Water Stains

Water stains on your walls or ceilings that have no apparent source of water can be a clear sign of a hidden leak. These stains not only affect the aesthetics of your home but also signal that there is ongoing damage behind the scenes.

Musty Smells

The presence of a persistent musty or damp smell can suggest there is hidden moisture somewhere in your home. These odours can be unpleasant and affect your day-to-day comfort as well as the indoor air quality, so they shouldn’t be left untreated. 

Reduced Water Pressure

If you notice a significant drop in water pressure in one or more taps, it may be due to a hidden leak within the plumbing system. Reduced water pressure can hinder your everyday routine and indicate an issue within your pipes that needs attention.

Different Ways to Identify Hidden Leaks with Expert Help

When it comes to uncovering hidden water leaks, professional assistance is often necessary due to the specialised equipment and expertise required. Here are some expert methods used for hidden leak detection; 

  • Acoustic Profiling – Acoustic leak detection involves using sensitive microphones to listen for the sound of water escaping from pipes. Technicians can pinpoint the location of the leak based on the unique sound it generates.

 

  • Thermal Imaging Cameras – Thermal imaging cameras can detect temperature variations caused by hidden leaks. Water leaks can alter the temperature of the affected area, making them visible through thermal imaging.

 

  • Moisture Meter Profiling – Moisture meters are tools that measure the moisture content of materials. Technicians use them to identify hidden moisture within walls, floors or ceilings which can indicate the presence of a leak, even when it’s not yet visible. 

 

  • Endoscope Cameras – Endoscope cameras are small, flexible cameras that can be inserted into water pipes and other tight spaces to visually inspect for leaks or blockages. This is a non-invasive solution for leak detection. 

 

  • Tracer Gas Surveys – Tracer gas surveys involve introducing a harmless gas into the plumbing system. Technicians then use specialised equipment to detect the escaping gas, which helps them locate hidden leaks accurately in any indoor or outdoor location.

Need Assistance with Hidden Leak Detection in Essex?

Hidden leaks can cause significant damage and detecting them early can save you from extensive repairs and the associated costs. If you suspect a hidden leak in your home, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Absolute Leak Detection. With our variety of leak detection methods and state-of-the-art equipment, we can quickly identify any pipe leaks in your plumbing system. Once identified, we can promptly address the issue and prevent further damage. 

Early detection using non-invasive methods is the key to preventing costly repairs and preserving the integrity of your home. Our leak detection specialists will save you a lot of disruption and mess, and you can rely on us to be efficient. We pride ourselves on providing an end-to-end leak detection service and ensuring your home is left in good condition. 

Call us today on 01702 842 944 if you need assistance with hidden leak detection in Essex.