Gas Tracer Leak Detection
Tracer gas leak detection is a specialist method used to investigate hidden leaks within pressurised water and central heating pipework. A carefully controlled mixture of hydrogen and nitrogen is introduced into a suitable isolated section of pipework, allowing our engineers to detect where gas escapes through small defects.
At Maystone Leak Detection, we use sensitive gas detection equipment to investigate concealed pipework beneath floors, driveways, roads and other difficult-to-access areas. The tracer gas can travel through porous materials such as concrete, screed and tarmac, helping us narrow down the likely location of a hidden water leak without unnecessary excavation.
Tracer gas is particularly useful where conventional detection methods are inconclusive, although the results must be interpreted alongside the property's construction and other investigation findings.
Technology:
Gas Tracer
Best for: Accurately locating difficult-to-find leaks within concealed and underground pipework.
Invasive or Non-invasive: Generally non-destructive to the building, although the pipework must be accessible and suitable for isolation, preparation and gas introduction.
Detects: Small and larger leaks beneath floors, driveways and roads, behind walls and within concealed pipework.
Suitable pipework: Mains water, hot and cold water and central heating systems.
Used alone or with another technology? Tracer gas may be used independently or alongside acoustic profiling, pressure testing and other appropriate leak detection methods.
Suitable for: Domestic & commercial properties.
When is gas tracer useful?
Finding leaks beneath floors
Locating underground mains water leaks
Investigating central heating leaks
Finding leaks behind walls
Locating very small leaks
Confirming an acoustic investigation
Investigating beneath driveways and roads
When visible signs don't reveal the source
How does Maystone use gas tracer for leak detection?
Our engineers use tracer gas to investigate suspected leaks within suitable pressurised pipework, including underground water mains, hot and cold water supplies and central heating systems.
The relevant section of pipework is assessed, isolated and prepared for testing. Where appropriate, the water is removed and a specialist hydrogen and nitrogen tracer gas mixture is introduced under controlled pressure.
Using sensitive detection equipment, our engineers then survey the suspected area for evidence of escaping gas.
Because tracer gas follows the easiest available route through surrounding materials, the strongest reading may not be directly above the damaged pipe. Our engineers consider the property's construction, pipe route and surface materials when interpreting the results.
Where necessary, tracer gas is combined with acoustic profiling, pressure testing or other technologies to help narrow down the likely leak location before recommending targeted access or repairs.
Benefits and limitations of gas tracer leak detection:
Can help accurately narrow down the likely leak location
Can detect evidence of very small leaks under suitable conditions
Non-destructive
Suitable for different pipe systems
Ideal for concealed pipework
Quick and efficient
Specialist detection method
Safe when professionally used
Gas may not emerge directly above the leak
Tracer gas follows the easiest route to the surface. Tightly fitted, glued or non-porous modern flooring can cause the gas to travel beneath the floor and emerge at a nearby joint, edge or other available exit point.
Building construction can affect results
Different layers and materials can influence how tracer gas travels, so readings need to be interpreted alongside an understanding of the property's construction.
May require other detection methods
Tracer gas is highly effective, but it is not relied upon in isolation in every investigation. Acoustic profiling, pressure testing or other technologies may be used to confirm the findings.
When do we use tracer gas leak detection?
Tracer gas is particularly useful for investigating hidden leaks within pressurised pipework where direct access is limited.
At Maystone Leak Detection, we may use this technology during:
Water Mains Leak Detection
Investigating underground supply pipes beneath gardens, driveways and other external surfaces.
Central Heating Leak Detection
Locating suspected leaks within suitable concealed heating pipework, including systems beneath floors.
Domestic Leak Detection
Investigating difficult-to-find leaks within household hot and cold water supplies.
Commercial Leak Detection
Investigating concealed water supplies and pressurised pipework within commercial buildings and external areas.
Why we combine technologies
At Maystone Leak Detection, we understand that every leak is different, which is why we never rely on a single detection method in isolation. While each technology has its own strengths, combining multiple techniques allows our engineers to build a clearer picture of what is happening within your property.
By comparing the results from advanced technologies such as thermal imaging, acoustic listening, moisture mapping, tracer gas testing and other specialist methods, we can accurately confirm the source of a leak before recommending any repairs.
This approach helps us provide a more accurate diagnosis, reduce unnecessary disruption and ensure the right solution is used for your specific situation.
Our leak detection technologies include:
Common Questions about gas tracer for leak detection:
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Gas tracer leak detection involves introducing a specialist gas mixture into pipework and using sensitive equipment to detect where it escapes. Because the gas molecules are very small, they can escape through tiny defects in a leaking pipe and travel through porous materials towards the surface.
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The specialist hydrogen and nitrogen tracer gas mixture used for professional leak detection is introduced into the pipework in a controlled manner. Our experienced engineers assess the system and carry out the test using equipment specifically designed for leak detection.
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Yes. Tracer gas is particularly useful for investigating leaks beneath concrete, screed and other difficult-to-access surfaces. Escaping gas can travel through porous building materials, allowing our engineers to detect it from above without immediately excavating the floor.
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Tracer gas can be a very accurate method of narrowing down hidden leaks. However, gas naturally follows the easiest route to the surface, so the highest reading may not always be directly above the damaged pipe. Our engineers interpret the readings alongside the construction of the property and often combine tracer gas with acoustic profiling or other technologies to confirm the leak location.
Why choose Maystone?
Advanced technology. Experienced engineers. Accurate results.
Finding a hidden leak requires more than specialist equipment. It takes experience, knowledge and the right combination of technologies to accurately identify the source while minimising disruption to your property.
Experienced Leak Detection Engineers
Specialists in locating hidden leaks across domestic and commercial properties.
Advanced Detection Technology
Using thermal imaging, acoustic listening, tracer gas, moisture mapping and more to pinpoint leaks accurately.
Minimal Disruption
Non-invasive detection methods designed to avoid unnecessary damage.
Insurance-Friendly Reports
Clear, detailed reports to support insurance claims where required.
Residential & Commercial Expertise
Trusted by homeowners, landlords, businesses and property managers.
Five-Star Customer Service
Honest advice, clear communication and accurate leak detection trusted by our customers.