Tracer gas leak detection is a specialist method for an appropriate isolated pipe circuit. A safe, purpose-selected tracer mixture is introduced under controlled conditions, then a sensitive detector is used along the suspected route. Where gas escapes through a small failure in the pipework, it can supply another piece of evidence about the likely leak position.
How tracer gas detection works
We first assess whether the relevant water or heating circuit can be isolated and prepared correctly. The detector samples close to the surface and responds to the tracer gas that has migrated from the leak. Readings are assessed carefully with the pipe route, floor construction, joints, voids and ground conditions in mind.
- 1
Assess the circuit
We establish the system layout, available isolation points and whether the affected pipework can be prepared for tracer gas.
- 2
Introduce and trace
A suitable tracer mixture is introduced under controlled conditions and readings are compared along the suspected route.
- 3
Interpret the response
We consider nearby voids, floor edges and the pipe layout before agreeing what the findings justify.
When this equipment can help
- Leaks beneath solid floors and screed where there is little visible water
- Concealed central-heating or underfloor-heating circuits that lose pressure
- Difficult underground water pipe investigations
- Supporting evidence when acoustic leak detection is limited
EXAMPLE INVESTIGATION
A concealed leak with no obvious noise
A small leak beneath screed may cause a system to lose pressure while leaving little useful sound at the surface. If the circuit can be prepared for tracer gas, detector readings may give another way to narrow the search. An engineer checks whether a response follows the pipe route or whether gas could have moved through a gap before planning access.
Building the evidence with other methods
Pressure checks help establish which circuit needs attention. Pipe tracing and knowledge of the construction help interpret where the gas appears. Acoustic listening can add supporting evidence where a suitable water leak signal is available.
Gas can move through gaps, insulation and building materials, so the strongest detector response is not automatically the exact point to excavate. This equipment is selected only when it suits the system and conditions; it is not necessary for every water leak investigation.
Compare leak detection methodsPreparing for an investigation
We may need clear access to stop valves, manifolds and the suspected pipe route. Let us know about shared supplies, sensitive equipment or occupants who need notice of a short isolation.
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 tracer gas detection questions
Is tracer gas the same as a household gas leak test?
No. This guide describes a specialist technique used to investigate water and heating pipework. If you suspect a fuel-gas leak, follow the appropriate gas emergency procedure.
Does a gas reading mean the leak is directly underneath?
Not necessarily. Escaping gas can move through voids or take a route around dense materials. We interpret a series of readings alongside the building and pipe layout.
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: water leak detection technologies. Manufacturer guidance explains the technology; the equipment selected for your visit depends on the investigation.