As experienced Portland plumbers, one of the most common problems we see here at 3 Mountains Home Services is pipe leaks. However, it’s often difficult to pinpoint exactly where a leak is because the bulk of your plumbing system is behind walls or below the floors.
Detecting a Leak
Not too long ago, when you suspected you had a leaking pipe, your plumber would try to locate it. Oftentimes, this involved ripping out part of your walls or some of the floor to access the affected part of the system. Fortunately, plumbing technology has evolved significantly since those days, and there are now several reliable, non-invasive methods we can use to detect leaks. But first, there are several common-sense steps involved:
- Check for hot spots on the floor: This indicated a leak in the pipes running below the floor.
- Listen for the sound of running water: If you can hear water running but all of the faucets are off, you leak.
- Check the water meter: If all of the faucets are turned off and you’re not running any appliances that use water, the needle on the water meter should be still. If it’s moving, however, there’s a leak in the system.
- Try the shut-off valves: Shut off the hot water valve (located near the water heater). If the needle on the water meter is moving, you leak the cold-water pipes. Next, open the hot water valve and shut off the cold one located at the main. If the needle is moving, you leak the hot water pipes.
Once we’ve narrowed the possible location down to the hot or cold side, we can use a variety of techniques including video camera inspection, thermal imaging cameras, pressure-testing equipment, moisture meters, pipeline locators, and ultrasonic listening devices to pinpoint the exact location of the leak.
Call Your Trusted Portland Plumber
If you suspect you have a pipe leak, call the team at 3 Mountains Home Services right away. Because by acting promptly, you can reduce the chances of your property incurring costly water damage. So don’t hesitate: to call 3 Mountains Home Services today!
