A leak noise correlator helps investigate a pressurised water pipe between two accessible points. Sensors listen to the same leak from different positions, and the instrument compares the signals. This gives an engineer another way to narrow down a suspected underground water leak when the pipe route is long or the surface gives few clues.
How leak noise correlation works
Water escaping under pressure can generate a noise that travels along the pipe. With sensors connected at two suitable fittings, a correlator compares the time taken for that sound to reach each sensor. The pipe length, material and diameter inform the calculation of a possible leak position between the sensors.
- 1
Establish the pipe section
We assess the route, distance between sensor positions, pipe materials and suitable access points.
- 2
Compare simultaneous signals
The correlator processes the sound from both ends of the section to identify a possible shared leak signal.
- 3
Check the indicated location
The result is assessed against the route and site conditions and may be followed by surface listening or another check.
When this equipment can help
- Longer private supply pipes and underground water mains
- Water loss across gardens, grounds and private access roads
- Commercial sites with accessible fittings on a known pipe route
- Checking a suspected leak position before targeted excavation
EXAMPLE INVESTIGATION
Water loss on a long private supply
On a longer supply serving a house or commercial building, accessible fittings at either end of a section may allow a correlation check. This can help reduce the area needing closer attention. Unknown branches or sections replaced in a different material can complicate the result, so previous repair records are especially useful.
Building the evidence with other methods
Correlation supports the wider acoustic investigation. Pipe locating helps establish the route and ground listening may help check the indicated point. Where the pipe information or sound is insufficient, another detection method may be more useful.
The result depends on usable leak noise and reliable information about the pipe. Mixed materials, branches, uncertain lengths and competing noise can affect the calculation. A correlation result needs checking against the route and other observations before access.
Compare leak detection methodsPreparing for an investigation
Share any drawings, meter information and locations of accessible valves. Let us know about shared supplies, locked grounds and permission to enter neighbouring areas.
Tell us the property postcode, when the symptoms started and what has already been checked. Useful details include changes in water bills, boiler pressure, the location of damp patches and any recent building work.
Contact us about your hidden leak
We investigate and repair residential pipe leaks from our Windsor SL4 base, with appointments across the surrounding service area. Homeowners and residential landlords can enquire about the £1,195 package; commercial premises receive an individual quote.
Discuss your leak with usGOOD TO KNOW
Your leak noise correlation questions
How is a correlator different from a ground microphone?
A ground microphone helps an engineer listen at a surface point. A correlator compares signals from two positions on a pipe and uses information about the section between them.
Is correlation only for commercial sites?
No. Its suitability depends on the pipe layout, access and signal quality. A long domestic supply may be suitable, while some commercial pipe arrangements may not be.
Do you also repair the leak?
Yes. We combine investigation, access and the plumbing repair in one residential package. We explain the proposed access before work begins and test the repair afterwards.
How does the £100 deposit work?
First, contact us about the leak. Once the job and appointment are confirmed, we send you a payment link for a £100 booking deposit. This is deducted from £1,195, leaving £1,095. Sending an enquiry does not take a payment or confirm an appointment.
Further technical reading
Sewerin: how leak noise correlation works. Manufacturer guidance explains the technology; the equipment selected for your visit depends on the investigation.