A slight hiss, a damp patch… What if it’s a leak? Sometimes invisible to the naked eye, a water leak can quickly turn into a nightmare for your home (and your wallet!).
Fortunately, today there are accurate, non-destructive methods for detecting plumbing leaks. Here’s an overview of the most effective techniques used by professionals.
Thermography: The camera that sees water through walls
Infrared thermography can detect temperature differences caused by water seeping behind walls, floors, or ceilings. Using a thermal imaging camera, wet areas appear as “cold spots,” allowing the precise location of a leak.
Common uses:
- Leak detection in walls or ceilings
- Damaged underfloor heating
- Insulation and humidity problems
A non-invasive method, thermography is ideal for preventative inspections or during renovations. It allows you to target areas requiring correction without unnecessarily opening surfaces.
Video inspection: A real-time view of your pipes
Camera inspection involves inserting a cable equipped with an HD camera into the pipes to visualize their internal condition. This method is particularly effective for waste pipes, main drains, and rainwater columns.
What it can detect:
- Microcracks and internal deterioration
- Presence of roots or debris
- Blockages and obstructions
- Areas of corrosion or condensation
Widely used in Quebec, this technique is essential in the event of a backflow or to check the general condition of a building’s plumbing.
Smoke test: To detect invisible leaks in exhaust systems
Smoke testing involves injecting non-toxic smoke under pressure into drain or vent lines. If there is a leak, crack, or poor connection, smoke will visibly escape from the problem area.
What this method allows to identify:
- Broken or cracked drain pipes
- Defects in ventilation systems
- Poorly sealed or outdated fittings
It is a quick and very effective method for locating water leaks in hard-to-reach places, without having to demolish anything.
Tracer dyes: Simple but extremely effective
The dye test involves introducing a fluorescent dye into a section of the plumbing system (toilet, shower, drain, etc.) to track its path. If it reappears in an unexpected location, the leak is confirmed.
Common uses:
- Toilet leaking into the bowl
- Water infiltration in the shower
- Leak detection on a flat roof
This quick and inexpensive method is often used as a first line of defense, especially for visible or accessible leaks.
Need a water leak detection expert?
Trust Plomberie Urgence Montréal (PUM) for fast, precise, and damage-free intervention.
📞 514.418.3535