We provide advanced leak detection services to accurately locate hidden leaks with minimal disruption. The tech we use includes tracer gas, thermal imaging, moisture meters, endoscope inspections, pressure gauges, listening devices, and salts testing, each suited to different leak types and conditions. These methods can be combined for maximum precision across plumbing and heating systems.
Book your comprehensive inspection today for fast, accurate results and peace of mind.
Tracer Gas
Tracer gas is one of the most effective and reliable methods for detecting hidden leaks in pipework and sealed systems. A safe, inert gas (typically a hydrogen and nitrogen mix) is introduced into the system. If a leak is present, the gas will escape through the smallest of openings and, in most cases, allows us to accurately pinpoint the leak using a sensitive detection device.
Vortex Leak Detection use the Jacob’s mc Sniffer 430, a professional wireless gas sniffer to find leaks on incoming mains, hot and cold-water systems, heating pipes, and underfloor heating.
Why Use Tracer Gas?
Locates even the tiniest leaks
No invasive digging or unnecessary damage
Safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly
Ideal for water pipes inside and outside your property
How It Works
Initial Testing – We identify which pipework is affected
System Isolation – The suspected pipe is emptied and pressurised with tracer gas
Detection – We scan the area with the Jacob’s gas Sniffer
Leak Location – The leak is accurately marked for repair
Access & Repair – Access can be made to uncover and fix the leak, depending on its location and complexity
Thermal Imaging
Thermal inspection cameras are a fast and effective way to detect hidden leaks without causing any disruption. By scanning surfaces, we can identify temperature changes caused by moisture or escaping water, allowing us to pinpoint problem areas quickly and accurately. We use the Hikmicro Pocket 2, a powerful little pocket camera. It highlights surface temperatures by showing up on screen with different blends of colours to define between hot and cold.
Why Use Thermal Imaging?
Non-destructive and mess-free
Detects leaks in walls, floors, and ceilings
Ideal for hot water pipes, heating systems, and underfloor heating
Speeds up diagnosis and repair by highlighting exact problem areas
How It Works
Area Scan – A thermal camera captures temperature variations across most surfaces
Leak Detection – Heat signatures reveal potential leak points or anomalies
Marking the Area – We highlight the affected zones for further investigation or repair
Next Steps – If needed, we advise on access and the best route to carry out the repair
Moisture Meter Leak Detection
A moisture meter is a quick and reliable tool for detecting hidden dampness caused by water leaks. By measuring the moisture levels within walls, floors, and other materials, we can identify areas affected by water ingress—helping to confirm the presence of a leak and track how far the moisture has spread without needing to open up walls or floors unnecessarily.
Why Use a Moisture Meter?
Pinpoints damp areas without damage
Fast readings with immediate results
Ideal for tracking leaks behind plaster, tiles, and wooden floors
Helps assess water damage and leak severity
How It Works
Visual Inspection – We assess signs of damp, staining, or water damage
Moisture Readings – A handheld meter is used to scan walls, floors, and affected areas
Leak Assessment – Abnormal moisture levels indicate potential leak points
Mapping the Spread – We trace how far the moisture has travelled
Advice & Next Steps – We provide recommendations on how to proceed with repairs or further investigation
Endoscope Leak Inspection
An endoscope camera allows us to visually inspect hidden pipework and tight spaces with minimal disturbance. By feeding a small camera into hard-to-reach areas—such as behind walls, under floors, or inside voids—we can visually confirm the location and cause of a leak with high accuracy without opening up large sections of your property.
Why Use an Endoscope?
Direct visual confirmation of leaks or damage
Minimal access needed—small holes or access points only
Ideal for wall cavities, floor voids, and tight spaces
Helps avoid unnecessary damage or exploratory work
How It Works
Initial Assessment – We identify the most likely leak area
Camera Insertion – A flexible endoscope is carefully inserted through a small access point
Live Inspection – Real-time video feed reveals leaks, corrosion, or pipe damage
Locate the Issue – We pinpoint the exact location of the problem
Plan the Repair – We advise on the best access route for repair or further investigation
Pressure Gauge Testing
Using a pressure gauge is one of the simplest and most effective ways to check for hidden leaks in pipework. By isolating a section of the system and monitoring pressure levels over time, we can confirm whether a leak is present—even if it’s not yet visible.
Why Use a Pressure Gauge?
Quick and reliable way to detect leaks
Ideal for confirming suspected pressure loss
Works with a wide range of plumbing and heating systems
Often the first step before advanced leak detection methods
How It Works
System Isolation – We isolate the relevant pipework or system
Pressurisation – The system is pressurised and fitted with a gauge
Monitoring – We monitor the gauge over time for any pressure drop
Diagnosis – A loss in pressure confirms the presence of a leak
Next Steps – If a leak is confirmed, we can proceed with more detailed detection methods like tracer gas or thermal imaging
Listening Stick Leak Detection
A listening stick is a tried-and-true tool for detecting leaks by sound. By placing the stick on exposed pipework or surfaces, we can listen for the distinct sound of water escaping under pressure, helping to identify the general area of a hidden leak especially for mains water leaks.
Why Use a Listening Stick?
Quick, low-tech method with immediate results
Ideal for metal pipework (especially mains water lines)
No power required—can be used anywhere
A great first step before advanced leak detection tools
How It Works
Initial Check – We identify accessible sections of pipework
Sound Detection – The listening stick is placed on the pipe or floor above it
Leak Confirmation – We listen for the high-frequency sound of water escaping under pressure
Pinpoint Area – Suspected areas are marked for further inspection or testing
Follow-Up – If needed, we confirm the exact leak location using other methods like tracer gas or thermal imaging
Salts Testing Leak Detection
Salts testing is a highly effective method for detecting leaks in concrete or masonry structures. By analysing the presence of salts in the material, we can identify areas affected by moisture ingress—helping to confirm the existence of a leak and the extent of water penetration.
Why Use Salts Testing?
Detects moisture that has travelled through concrete, brick, or masonry
Reveals hidden leaks in structures without causing damage
Ideal for identifying leaks in basements, foundations, and retaining walls
Helps to assess long-term water damage and its impact on building integrity
How It Works
Initial Assessment – We visually inspect the area for signs of water damage or dampness
Salt Sampling – Samples are taken from the affected areas, such as walls or floors
Testing – The salt content in the samples is analysed to confirm moisture presence
Leak Diagnosis – Elevated salt levels confirm the presence of water ingress, indicating a potential leak
Further Investigation – If necessary, we advise on the next steps for leak repair or further diagnostic testing
Acoustic Leak Detection
Using advanced sound-based technology, acoustic leak detection is a fast, non-invasive method for locating hidden leaks in pressurised pipework and sealed systems. The Hikmicro AD21P acoustic device identifies the distinct ultrasonic sounds produced by escaping water or gases, allowing for precise leak detection.
At Vortex Leak Detection, we use the Hikmicro AD21P, a state-of-the-art acoustic device that pinpoints leaks by identifying ultrasonic noises. This enables us to quickly locate leaks in mains supply, hot and cold water, central heating systems, underfloor heating, and more—without causing unnecessary disruption.
Why Choose Acoustic Leak Detection?
Detects even the smallest leaks with pinpoint accuracy
No need for digging, drilling, or damage to property
Works through walls, floors, and other obstructions
Safe, clean, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor systems
How It Works
Initial Check – We identify accessible sections of pipework
Sound Detection – The listening mic is placed on the pipe or floor above it
Leak Confirmation – We listen for the high-frequency sound of water escaping under pressure
Pinpoint Area – Suspected areas are marked for further inspection or testing
Follow-Up – If needed, we confirm the exact leak location using other methods like tracer gas or thermal imaging.
