Leak detection service
We introduce a safe tracer gas into the pipework and detect exactly where it escapes. It is the most precise way to pinpoint hidden and underground leaks across Cornwall.
Tracer gas leak detection works by draining the affected pipe and introducing a safe, inert tracer gas, typically a hydrogen and nitrogen mix, under pressure. The gas is lighter than air, so it escapes through the exact point of the leak and rises to the surface, where a sensitive detector picks it up. That tells us precisely where the leak is.
It is the go-to method across Cornwall for leaks that are otherwise impossible to find, whether under screed, concrete and buried ground, or on systems where there is no water visible. It is especially effective for central heating leaks and underfloor heating leaks, and we often use it to confirm a source first narrowed down by thermal imaging or acoustic detection. Because the gas is non-toxic and non-flammable in the mix used, it is safe to use in homes and around food areas. For more on how leaks behave, see The Water Leak Guide.
Some leaks are small, intermittent or buried deep, and they defeat the usual methods. Every failed attempt to find one costs time, money and more disruption.
Tracer gas is the precise way to find those leaks:
✓it follows the exact path of the leak and rises to the surface✓it finds small or slow leaks that stay hidden from other methods✓it works on pressurised pipework above and below ground✓it pinpoints the spot, so access and repair are kept small
We use a safe, inert tracer gas to confirm the source when accuracy matters most.
Our method
Central heating and underfloor heating leaks under screed and concrete
Underground and buried supply-pipe leaks
Leaks where there is no visible water and other methods need confirming
Final pinpointing after thermal or acoustic has narrowed the area
Tracer gas combined with thermal and acoustic for a confirmed result
Local to Cornwall, Land's End to Launceston
Safe, non-toxic gas suitable for use in occupied homes
Insurance-approved trace and access reports
We cover the whole of Cornwall, from Land's End to Launceston. That includes Truro, St Austell, Newquay, Falmouth, Penzance, Bodmin, Bude and Liskeard. See all the areas we cover.
Yes. The gas used is a safe, inert hydrogen/nitrogen mix that is non-toxic and non-flammable in that proportion, so it can be used safely inside occupied homes and around food preparation areas.
We isolate and drain the affected pipe, then introduce the gas under pressure. Being lighter than air it escapes at the exact leak point and rises to the surface, where a detector picks it up and pinpoints the leak precisely.
Yes, that is one of its main strengths. The gas passes up through screed, concrete and ground, so it locates leaks in solid floors and buried pipes that other methods struggle with.
The whole of Cornwall, from Land's End to Launceston, including Truro, Newquay, St Austell, Falmouth, Penzance, Bodmin, Bude and Liskeard.
Free quote, fast reply
One call or one form and we will book a survey and talk you through what happens next. We cover the whole of Cornwall, from Land's End to Launceston.
Call Cornwall Leak Detection Specialists on 07897 016222. Fast response across Cornwall, Land's End to Launceston.
