FAQ
Acoustic leak detection — FAQ
Common questions from BC property owners and managers needing acoustic leak detection. Don't see your question? Call us at 604-239-9934.
- Serving all of BCSince 1999
- Licensed & insuredWorkSafeBC
- Free phone consultNo pressure
- 25+ yearsFamily-operated
- 10,000+ propertiesInspected
- Will leak detection damage my property?
- No. We use non-invasive technology like thermal imaging, acoustic sensors, and ground-penetrating radar. No drilling, cutting, or demolition required in most cases.
- Does insurance cover leak detection?
- Many policies cover detection costs when water damage is present. We provide detailed reports for your insurance claim documentation.
- How quickly can you respond?
- Same-day response is often available for urgent situations. Regular appointments are typically scheduled within 24–48 hours.
- What if you don't find a leak?
- You receive a comprehensive report confirming no active leaks were detected. This documentation is valuable for insurance, property sales, or peace of mind.
- How does acoustic correlation work?
- Two sensors are placed on the same pipe. When water escapes under pressure, it creates sound. The correlator measures the time difference of the sound reaching each sensor and calculates the exact leak position.
- How accurate is acoustic correlation?
- Typically within 30cm on pipe runs up to 1km. Accuracy depends on pipe material, water pressure, soil conditions, and background noise.
- Can acoustic correlation find leaks in plastic pipes?
- Yes. Plastic pipes conduct sound differently than metal, but our correlators are calibrated for all pipe materials — copper, PVC, PEX, ductile iron, and more.
- Do you need access to the pipe at two points?
- Yes — we need two access points on the same pipe run. Typical access points: water meters, fire department connections, mechanical room valves, or exposed pipe sections.
- What's the difference between acoustic correlation and listening?
- Correlation uses two sensors and calculates the leak position mathematically. Listening uses a single ground microphone to hear the leak sound — we use listening to confirm correlator results.
- How deep can acoustic detection reach?
- Acoustic correlation works on pipes buried up to 15m deep, depending on soil conditions and water pressure. Typical residential service lines at 1-2m depth are easily detected.
- Can acoustic detect non-pressurized leaks?
- No — acoustic detection requires pressure to create the escaping-water sound. For low-pressure or gravity systems, we use tracer gas.
- What equipment do you use?
- Gutermann AquaScan 620L and Sebakmt correlators — the same equipment trusted by municipal water authorities across BC.
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