Leak Detection Fish Hoek | Non-Invasive Water Leak Finding

About Leak Detection in Fish Hoek

Hidden water leaks are one of the most damaging plumbing problems because they can persist for weeks or months before becoming visible. By the time you notice a damp patch on a wall, water may have already saturated the wall cavity, damaged structural timber, promoted mould growth, and driven up your water bill. Finding the exact source of a hidden leak without ripping open walls and floors requires specialised equipment and expertise.

Abacas Solution uses advanced non-invasive leak detection technology to pinpoint hidden leaks accurately. Our electronic listening equipment amplifies the sound of water escaping from pressurised pipes, allowing us to trace the leak through walls, floors, and underground pipework without unnecessary demolition. We also use thermal imaging cameras that detect temperature differences caused by moisture behind surfaces, and tracer gas systems for leaks that are too small or slow to detect acoustically.

Accurate leak detection saves you significant money compared to the alternative - opening up walls randomly searching for a leak. By pinpointing the exact location, we minimise the damage to your finishes and reduce repair costs. This is especially valuable in tiled bathrooms, plastered walls, and paved areas where random searching would destroy expensive finishes. We locate the leak first, then make a single targeted opening for repair.

This is one of several specialist services we offer under leaks & pipe repairs in Fish Hoek. As part of our Fish Hoek plumbing team, we bring over 25 years of hands-on experience to every job.

Leak Detection in Fish Hoek - Abacas Solution

When to Call for Leak Detection

Call when your water bill has increased without explanation, when your water meter runs with all taps closed, when you see unexplained damp patches on walls or ceilings, when you smell mould or dampness in your home, when there are warm spots on your floor (possible hot water leak), or when your geyser seems to run constantly.

Our Leak Detection Process

1

Initial Assessment

We examine visible evidence of the leak - damp patches, staining, peeling paint, musty smells - and review your water meter readings to estimate the leak volume. We also check the most common leak sources (geysers, toilets, outdoor taps) to rule out obvious causes.

2

Electronic Detection

Using acoustic listening equipment, we scan walls, floors, and the ground along pipe routes, listening for the characteristic sound of pressurised water escaping through a crack or hole. We systematically narrow down the leak location.

3

Thermal Imaging

We use thermal cameras to identify moisture patterns behind walls and under floors. Wet areas appear as cooler zones on the thermal image, revealing the extent of water spread and pointing to the leak source.

4

Pinpoint & Report

We mark the exact leak location on the wall or floor surface, confirmed by multiple detection methods. You receive a clear explanation of where the leak is, what is likely causing it, and a quote for the repair.

Many homeowners in Fish Hoek who need leak detection also require burst pipes in Fish Hoek and leaking taps & faucets. We handle everything, so you only need one call.

Safety & Compliance

If you suspect a leak near electrical wiring or in a wall with electrical conduits, do not attempt to investigate yourself. Water and electricity create a serious shock hazard. Call us and we will safely locate the leak using non-invasive methods. If your water bill has spiked suddenly and you cannot find an obvious leak, check your geyser overflow and toilet cisterns first - these are the most common hidden water wasters.

Leak Detection Cost in Fish Hoek

Leak detection costs depend on the complexity and time required. A straightforward detection where the leak is in a single accessible area costs R600-R1,200. Complex detections involving multiple possible sources, underground pipes, or large properties range from R1,200-R2,500. The detection fee is separate from the repair cost, but finding the leak precisely almost always reduces overall repair costs by avoiding unnecessary demolition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a hidden leak?

Common signs include an unexplained increase in your water bill, your water meter spinning when all taps are closed, damp patches or bubbling paint on walls, musty or mouldy smells in rooms, warm spots on floors (indicating a hot water pipe leak), and constantly running or cycling of your geyser. If you notice any of these, a professional leak detection can find the source quickly.

How much does leak detection cost in Fish Hoek?

Professional leak detection in Fish Hoek typically costs R600-R1,200 for a standard residential detection. Complex cases involving underground pipes or multiple possible sources may cost R1,200-R2,500. This investment is usually much less than the cost of randomly opening walls to search for a leak, and far less than the water damage an unfound leak causes over time.

Can you find leaks under floor tiles without breaking them?

Yes, our detection equipment works through tiles, screed, and concrete. We use acoustic sensors that listen for the sound of escaping water and thermal cameras that detect moisture patterns beneath the surface. We only need to open a small area at the exact leak point for repair, rather than lifting an entire tiled floor searching for the source.

How do I check if I have a leak using my water meter?

Turn off all taps, appliances, and irrigation systems in your home. Go to your water meter and note the reading. Do not use any water for 2 hours, then check the meter again. If the reading has changed, you have a leak somewhere in your system. Also check if your meter has a small red triangle or dial - if it is spinning with all taps off, water is flowing somewhere it should not be.