Hidden Mains Water Leak Detection In Brighton
We were contacted by a homeowner in Hove, Brighton, after receiving several unusually high water bills over a six-month period. The customer had already contacted their water provider, who confirmed continuous water consumption despite no water being used within the property overnight.
Concerned about escalating water costs and potential underground damage, the customer instructed Leak Detection 24/7 to carry out a non-invasive mains water leak detection survey.
Initial Investigation
Our engineer first isolated the internal stop tap before monitoring the incoming water meter.
Despite the property being isolated, the water meter continued registering movement, confirming a leak was present on the incoming water supply.
A full pressure test was then carried out on both the hot and cold water systems within the property for 45 minutes.
No pressure loss was recorded throughout the test, confirming the internal plumbing was fully sealed and not responsible for the excessive water usage.
Tracer Gas Leak Detection Survey
Acoustic Leak Detection
To verify the findings, acoustic listening equipment was deployed.
A continuous escape of water could clearly be heard beneath the driveway directly where the tracer gas concentrations were highest.
The customer was shown both the acoustic readings and tracer gas results before excavation was recommended.
Findings
Access into the driveway exposed the original galvanised water supply. The Inspection revealed a split in the ageing galvanised pipe caused by corrosion and movement within the surrounding hardcore.
Due to the poor condition of the pipework, a temporary repair was carried out to restore the customer’s water supply.
We recommended replacing the entire external mains supply with MDPE pipework to prevent future failures.
RECCOMENDATIONS
We recommended replacing the existing galvanised mains water supply with new MDPE pipework routed externally.
Following installation, a secondary pressure test should be completed to confirm the new supply is fully sealed.
Leak Detection Methods Used
• Pressure Testing
• Tracer Gas Leak Detection
• Acoustic Leak Detection
• External Excavation
NEED HELP FINDING A HIDDEN LEAK
If you’re experiencing high water bills in Brighton, Leak Detection 24/7 provides specialist non-invasive leak detection throughout East Sussex.
Our engineers use advanced leak detection technology to locate concealed leaks in water mains, underground pipework, heating systems, and domestic plumbing systems with minimal disruption.
