Plumbing

What is a Sewer Scan Camera Inspection?

To inspect the main sewer line from the house to the public sewer system for possible problems, a special sewer video camera is inserted into the main sewer line cleanout.  Then everything is watched on a monitor, and our sewer scope inspectors sometimes record a video or take pictures of any issues within the pipes.

The sewer line inspection service is available in Oakland County, Macomb County, and some areas of the surrounding areas. Please to schedule an inspection, or schedule online.

3 Signs Your Main Sewer Line is Clogged

The sooner you recognize the warning signs of main sewer line blockage and call for a sewer line inspection, the better. Clogs in the main sewer line that goes ignored or unnoticed can lead to costly repairs, but can also expose your family to contaminated water. Here are a few signs of possible issues:

• Multiple backed-up drains. If more than one drain is slow-moving, gurgling, smells bad, or has water backing up, this most likely indicates a main sewer line clog.
• Water overflows into different plumbing fixtures. This happens because water from one branch line tries to drain away, but the main sewer clog blocks it and forces it to back up into other smaller drains.
• Drainage in sewer clean out. Remove the clean out cap. if there is sewer water flowing out of the pipe or standing in the pipe, this also indicated you have a sewer line clog.

 

What problems can be identified using a sewer line camera?

A sewer inspection video camera allows the service technician to see any problems with the pipe. This might include root intrusion, cracks, punctures, corrosion, or misaligned pipe sections. The camera will also identify grease buildup, leaks and obstructions. A follow-up video inspection can be conducted after service is performed to verify that the pipeline has been properly cleaned or repaired.

When should my pipes undergo an inspection using a sewer line inspection camera?

This type of inspection is recommended if you experience repeated sewer or drain line backups, slow drains or clogs. Additionally, realtors and prospective homeowners often see the cost benefit of conducting a professional video inspection of sewer pipes before purchasing a home. The sewer inspection will determine whether the sewer line is free of problems that could lead to expensive future repairs.

 

How do you know if you have a collapsed drain?

Key signs which are accurate indicators if you have a collapsed drain. Collapsed drains must be fixed as soon as possible to minimise the damage and the expense of fixing them so if any of the following symptoms present, it’s best to get a professional out and act quickly.

Backed up sewers or regular pipe blockages

These 2 less than savoury events are an indicator of a collapsed drain as the sewage can’t physically move through the collapsed pipe so it gets backed up. If this happens regularly then it implies damage to the pipe or a collapsed drain. Ordering a CCTV survey will confirm this, so you can act on it.

Strong smell of sewage

If there’s damage to a pipe or a collapsed drain, then you’ll regularly notice the smell of sewage in or around the home. Once drains have been unblocked then it’s likely this will disappear but with a collapsed drain, this will continue to reappear until the issue is fixed.

The presence of rodents or other unwanted visitors

When a drain is compromised it’s easy for rats and other sewer-dwelling creatures to gain access to your home. They may start to reside in the pipes and there’s no reason why they won’t venture closer and closer to the home, especially if the sewers are backed up and leaking into the home. Dealing with the infestation first is key, then you can deal with the drainage problem. Prevent the infestation from day one by looking into non-return valves which allow sewage to flow out but not back in, as shown above.

 

Slow Drains

There could be several reasons for water that drains off slowly from your sink, shower or bathtub, so it’s not necessary to panic straight away. If it is just the shower that is taking forever to drain, the problem is probably something to do with the plumbing inside instead. Try to clear the blockage yourself by checking the plughole and using the plunger to create enough force to move the blockage.

If that doesn’t work, get rid of as much of the water as you can and then pour a cup of baking soda down the drain. Follow this up with a cup of vinegar. This is a natural method that doesn’t contain any of the nasty chemicals that are usually present in the drain cleaner.

Why not just use drain cleaner? Because, if there is a problem with the main line, it’s likely to be a tree root, or collapsed pipe. There is nothing that drain cleaner can do about that. It can actually cause further damage because the chemicals in it are highly corrosive in nature. The longer that they sit in the pipe for, the more potential there is for corrosive damage to occur. Like with the clogged drains, to properly diagnose a mainline issue, the problem would have to be present in several drains in the home.

Your Lawn Is Soaked

Because your home’s main sewage line is located outside, if there are any issues with your sewer line, it is very likely that this will reflect onto your lawn. If your sewer line is collapsed or if there are cracks in the sewer pipes, then it is easier for dirt to make its way inside. This would also mean that water can now escape and makes its way outside, such as onto your lawn. If you notice that your lawn is persistently soaked, or you can see any puddles, it could definitely be a sign that there are issues with your sewer system. This needs immediate attention because a cracked or broken pipeline not only wastes water and unnecessarily increases your utility bill, but it can also lead to further damage and costly repairs that are best avoided. Another indication of a soaked lawn is fast-growing grass. If you notice that your grass has been growing exceptionally fast lately, this could be because of your damaged sewer line.

 

Insect and Rodent Infestation

On that note, an unusual increase in insect and rodent activity can be a sign that you have a broken sewer line. Rodents make their homes in sewers and can squeeze through the smallest cracks to find their way into your home. The same can be said for insects that can wriggle through a cracked drain pipe and breed in the stagnant water, allowing them to multiply rapidly. Both rodents and insects can cause health issues and need to be dealt with along with the sewer line breakage itself.

Mold & Mildew

Wet spots on your home’s ceilings, walls, or floors can all be signs of a collapsed sewer line or broken water pipe. If left unchecked, water infiltration from a sewer or water line can cause mold and mildew to spread rapidly. The spores from these fungi can cause severe allergic reactions, and their ability to eat through organic building materials over time can cause damage to your home’s interior, exterior, or foundation.

Broken Slabs and Wall Cracks

Buildings will often develop cracks in the concrete slab and supporting walls as they settle and the ground shifts beneath them. However, if your home is developing new cracks it may be because you have a broken sewer line that is washing away the soil supporting the foundation. If the crack is caused by a leak, the situation is unlikely to improve over time. More water will continue to wash away the surrounding soil until the foundation can no longer support the weight of the structure above. In a worst-case scenario, the house itself may collapse. A thorough inspection can determine if you have a sewer line breakage or another issue that is causing your home or business to develop cracks.

Water Heater Repair & Replacement

Is Time to Replace Your Water Heater?

Ask yourself the following questions and if the answer to any is “yes,” then it may be time to consider installing a new water heater in your home before your current one breaks down:

Is your water heater over 10 years old?

Is your water occasionally coming out rust-colored?

Do you hear odd noises like banging, hissing, or popping sounds?

Can you see water leaking from your water heater?

While are proud of these numbers, it’s the level of performance at which operate and our ability to bring families and business owners the comfort and functionality they deserve in their property that really excites. Water heaters are essential to a fully functioning structure, and their importance prompted to specialize in their maintenance, repair, and installation.

You’ll come across plenty of “Jacks of all trades” that will do plumbing, HVAC, and water heater services, but we caution you to be wary of service providers who may be spreading themselves a little too thin

 

water heater

If you have questions about your water heater browse through our frequently asked questions or FAQ’s below to find an answer.

Why is the pipe on the side of my water heater leaking?

Most likely you are referring to the overflow pipe attached to the temperature relief valve on the water heater. This is a safety valve and helps relieve excess temperature and pressure inside the water heater in case of high pressure or an overheated water heater. Occasionally this pipe will “blow off a little steam” and there will be no problem with your water heater, but if it leaks frequently or continuously there may be a problem. Call and speak with one of our water heater experts and they can help determine if you have a problem.

I have no hot water and why won’t my pilot light?

The most common reason a pilot won’t light, is a bad thermo-couple or a faulty part inside the water heater. When this occurs most of the time a simple repair will fix the problem. See our No Hot Water Page for a video on how to light your pilot or possible trouble shooting ideas.

Why is there a water leak under my water heater?

Water heaters tend to leak for a few reasons. Most often the internal tank has a crack and is broken or there is a leak at a fitting or part connected to the water heater. First check to see if you can tell where the water is coming from. Look at the top of the water heater and see if it is wet or if one of the water connectors is dripping, a leak like this can usually be repaired. If you do not see any visible leaks,  but water is pooling around the bottom of the heater this is a sign the water heater has gone bad. See our Leaking Water Heater page for additional information regarding a leaking water heater.

Why do I not get enough hot water or as much hot water as I used to?

If you have an older water heater, you might have a sediment buildup problem inside your tank. As a water heater ages, it tends to accumulate sediment and deposits at the bottom. If the water heater is not cleaned periodically, the sediment may rise to a level that will act as a barrier between the burner and the water, making it harder to heat, thus giving you less hot water. There could also be a problem with a faulty part or a bad dip tube in the water heater. Also see our Not Enough Hot Water page for more information regarding not getting enough hot water.

 

Water Heater Services

Hot water is one of those things most people take for granted until they don’t have it. It becomes a habit to turn the shower on, wait a minute for it to warm, and hop right into a relaxing start to your day. Whenever a hot water tank breaks it is usually at the worst possible time and service is needed ASAP.

What’s Included in Water Heater Maintenance?

Replacing a hot water heater can be expensive. Ensuring it is well-maintained will help extend its life and lessen any problems that may pop up down the road

Here are a few steps a professional can take to keep your unit running efficiently for years to come:

TEST THE TPR VALVE- TPR stands for temperature-pressure-release. Testing this valve is a necessity to prevent pressure from building up and possibly exploding

CHECK THE ANODE ROD- this rod is important because it stops your water heater from rusting. They are designed to wear out faster than your water heater so changing them as needed is imperative

DRAIN THE TANK- this process will get rid of the sediment buildup in the tank. Sediment buildup causes the tank to work harder than needed which will cause early tank failure in addition to raising the cost to operate it

INSULATE THE TANK- opting to insulate the hot water heater tank will allow water to remain hotter which in turn allows you to lower the temperature setting. Again, this allows the hot water heater not to work as hard

When Should You Replace Your Water Heater?

Although it may seem like a hot water heater can last forever, it unfortunately cannot. Most people won’t consider replacing a hot water heater unless theirs is completely broken. However, if it is completely broken, the household will not have hot water

To avoid this gap in warm water, here are the key signs it is time to replace your water heater:

AGE- hot water heaters have a lifespan of about 8-10 years. After 10 years, replacing the water heater is necessary because it could break at any time and may be costing far more to operate than a newer, more efficient model

RUSTING- a rusty water heater is something that cannot be fixed. Once rust has taken hold, the unit needs and can even lead to water contamination

SEVERE SEDIMENT BUILDUP- having a severe sediment buildup in your water heater can make it far less efficient to run. Because more time is spent heating the water, the metal of the water heater tank will become brittle and cause cracks

WATER IS NOT HOT ENOUGH- if you’re constantly adjusting the temperature of your water heater, it might not have to do with the thermostat at all. There is a chance other parts could be broken, especially if your water heater is much older

TANK SIZE- growing families mean more hot water usage. Even if your hot water heater is in good condition, having a large influx of people or an increase in use in hot water might signal that it’s time to replace your hot water heater with a larger tank

 

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR WATER HEATER

WATER HEATING ACCOUNTS FOR 18% OF HOME ENERGY USAGE

According to the US Department of Energy, about 18% of your home’s total energy use goes to heating the water. There are, however, steps you can take to keep energy and fuel usage manageable.

Turn down the temperature. You may be able to lower the settings from 140°F to 120°F.

Use less hot water. You can do your laundry on the cold setting and install low-flow fixtures to reduce hot water use and overall water use.

Upgrade your water heater. When your water heater is about 10-15 years old, it’s no longer as efficient as it could be. Upgrade to a high-efficiency water heater or a tankless unit.

BUILT-IN RUST AND CORROSION PREVENTION STILL REQUIRES MAINTENANCE

Your water heater is designed to prevent the tank from rusting and corroding through, which would end the life of your system. There is a glass lining in the tank to prevent the metal from coming into contact with water—since rust occurs when iron, water, and oxygen react.

Then, there is the anode rod. The anode rod is made of magnesium or aluminum, which is more corrosive than the steel tank. Anodes wear away as the rod corrodes, preventing the tank from corroding should the glass lining crack. But you will need to replace the anode rod every few years or so, as it eventually wears away to nearly nothing.

YOUR WATER HEATER MAY NOT LAST AS LONG AS YOU THINK

Tank water heaters only have a lifespan of about 10-15 years. After this point, your water heater may start to rust, and the risk of a leak becomes higher and higher. Proper maintenance can extend its lifespan, but we strongly recommend replacing your water heater before it experiences any major issues.

 

When Should You Replace Your Hot Water Heater?

Even with regular water heater maintenance, it can be tough to tell when it’s time to replace your hot water heater.

Average Lifespan

While today’s water heaters are better designed than older models, they still require regular maintenance in order to prolong their lives. With regular inspection, draining, and flushing, you can expect a gas water heater to last anywhere from 8-12 years and an electric water heater to last anywhere from 10-15 years.

Signs of Trouble

The last thing you want is your water heater breaking down on you when you need it most (especially in the winter), so take note of some signs that might mean trouble.

Rusty water

If you notice brownish or tinted water coming from your water heater, it could mean one of two things: that your water heater is rusting away on the inside or that your home’s piping is rusty. It may be tough to tell the difference, so set up an appointment with one of our water heater maintenance experts. We’ll help you determine what it is.

Rumbling/gurgling

Over time, sediment builds up in your hot water heater. As it’s heated over and over again, the sediment will get hard and will start to shift around, causing rumbling or gurgling noises. These sounds aren’t a good sign, and can lead to overworked water heaters, leaks, internal damage, and more.

HELPFUL TIPS ON CHOOSING THE BEST PLUMBING AND SEWER EXCAVATION COMPANY

A septic system can last up to 25 years, though this depends on how well it’s maintained as well as its design. Even so, there are times when major issues happen leaving one with no choice but to call plumbing experts. Some of these problems are so serious that it becomes necessary to inspect sewer pipe lining underground.

WATER LINE EXCAVATION

Water and sewer lines get damaged whenever soil expands and consequently causes pipes to shift. Tree and plant roots are yet another cause of trouble that makes water line excavations necessary. After a while, the roots invade main water pipes and cause breaks and cracks in the process. The pipes in your home then start draining slower, and this tells you that it’s time to seek professional help. Ignoring will only make the problem worse and you might end up paying a fortune.

CERTIFICATION

Truth be told, excavation work isn’t for every Tom, Dick, and Harry, and that’s why you need to check for certification. Serious players in this line of work will always have their documentation in order. With proper certification, you can be sure that you are dealing with people trained to handle jobs like water line excavation.

EXPERIENCE

A lot could go wrong when going about tasks such as water line excavation. The slightest mistake could set in motion other issues that could be pricey to fix. However, an experienced company knows all the dos and don’ts to ensure the job is done correctly from the beginning to the end.

REPUTATION

Professional service providers always have their clients’ interests at heart. Plumbing and sewer excavation companies are no exception and you should only consider those with a good reputation. With excellent reputation comes great reliability that ensures the job gets completed in good time. Avoid companies whose reputation is questionable.

 

Tips on choosing a Sewer Inspection Camera

Sewer inspection cameras are widely used by plumbers, contractors, engineers, home inspectors, municipal workers and other professionals for inspecting areas that are typically difficult to see, that is pipeline interiors, spaces behind walls, inside a drain and other hard-to-reach places. So, if you are thinking of purchasing a sewer inspection camera, first, you need to consider what it is you are going to use it for. Should it be water- and chemicals-proof? How much light will you need? How long should the insertion probe be? etc.

Insertion probe:

Length. It should be long enough to go from one manhole to another. The length of the probes varies from 20 to 120 meters (65.6′ – 394′). In case you need a more extended probe, you may need a reel with a stand to roll the probe, for additional comfort.

Camera:

Illumination. Since you are planning to inspect hard-to-see areas, you will need enough light to explore it. The brighter the light source, the better is the image. Search for sewer inspection cameras with adjustable, bright LED lights.

Monitor hub:

Screen. The screen should give you a clear picture of the area you are inspecting. Than wider screen and higher resolution than better. Pro models are equipped with a Daylight Readable Monitor

General characteristics:

Weight and handle. The sewer inspection camera should be lightweight and have a comfortable grip, especially if you are planning to use it for long periods.

 

CHOOSING THE BEST SEWER CAMERAS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PLUMBING BUSINESS

Every plumber or drain cleaning professional needs to have three essential tools to get the job done right: a portable water jetter, a cable machine, and most importantly, a sewer camera. Why the emphasis on the sewer camera? That’s because this equipment is essential to the accurate detection and diagnosis of piping and draining problems. Consequently, you need to equip yourself with the best sewer cameras for responding to an emergency plumbing call.

High-Tech Features

Every sewer inspection tool you use should be up to date so you can take advantage of the most advanced features. One particular quality you should look for in a sewer camera is versatility. It should be able to do any type of job without difficulty, whether you’re using it in a city’s main line or in residential sewers. Today’s most high-tech sewer cameras offer a variety of features like HD-quality pictures, lamp lights, thick cables for larger lines and battery operation capabilities. If these features sound good to you, you’re probably looking for a high-grade push camera inspection system. This handy tool may not look like much, but it can easily fit into even the smallest pipes, and allow you to save recorded footages in portable media.

Find a Reliable Supplier

Not every sewer camera in the market offers the same level of quality and set of features. Inspect each choice up close, therefore, before you decide to buy. These tools, after all, are valuable assets for your business. Find a reliable supplier who can provide you with a wide range of choices and follow-up service when you need it.

Ask for a Demonstration

No smart businessman will put down money for something he can’t try out first. Always ask your supplier for a demonstration of the equipment that interests you. This way, you will get an idea of how the equipment works and if it suits your needs.

Having quality sewer inspection equipment can go a long way toward the success of your plumbing business. Suppliers like Haaker Equipment Company can provide you with the best tools and products that you need.

 

What Your Need to Know About Sewer & Drain Inspections

Sewers and drain lines are an integral part of your home’s plumbing system, providing you with the ability to safely remove waste from the home. This may be human waste, such as from the toilet, or it may be waste water from bathing, washing hands, cooking and other related activities. This waste water washes down through the drains and into the sewer line as it leaves your property. You may not realize it but your drains as well as your sewer line need to be inspected periodically for the well-being of your property.

Why Sewers and Drains Need to Be Inspected

Sewers and drains can both become clogged or damaged, and an inspection can help you to determine the true condition of your pipes. These pipes are critical to your home’s condition, and damaged pipes can interfere with your ability to use the sewer line. Damage can also cause property damage to your home. For example, some clogged drains or damaged sewer lines can result in sewage waste spilling back into the home. This can cause an unhealthy, stinky mess as well as the potential for water damage and more. Inspecting the lines periodically is a great way to learn about potential issues that are developing before they become problematic.

Different Drain and Sewer Inspection Techniques

There are different techniques that are commonly used today to inspect drains and sewer lines. Some plumbing companies, for example, will push a snake-like device through the pipe to ensure that it is clean, and some will clean the pipes during this process. This will check for signs of a clog, but it will not be able to determine if there is a crack or leak in the pipe. Cracks and leaks are common in the pipes outside of the home, such as with the main sewer line. This is because the pipe can settle when the ground settles, or tree roots can impact it.

The Best Sewer and Drain Inspection Method

The better method to use when inspecting a drain or sewer line is a video inspection method. With this method, a camera will be inserted into the drain line and through the sewer line. The plumber will be able to view the pipe from the interior, and this includes the entire length of the pipe. Many areas of the pipe may be hidden in walls, a concrete foundation or underground, so the ability to see inside the pipe is a true benefit. If damage is found, it can easily be pinpointed so that repair work can be completed quickly

When to Schedule a Sewer and Drain Inspection

The best time to contact a plumber to schedule a sewer and drain inspection is once per year. This will help you to keep your home in the best possible condition and will alert you to any possible signs of damage that require repair work before they turn into major issues for you. However, it is important to schedule an inspection if you believe that there may be something wrong with your system. For example, your toilets and drains may all be sluggish, and you may worry that you have a clog in the main sewer line. An inspection can tell you what you need to know.

 

Why a Sewer Inspection Is Critical Before Buying a House

Most home buyers today wouldn’t think about closing their purchase without getting a general house inspection. That’s particularly so with older homes, but many also elect to have new buildings examined by an independent third party. Inspections are excellent insurance for discovering existing and potential problems. Unfortunately, most home inspectors fail to examine the sewer lines, which can turn out to be a critical and costly mistake.

Why Inspectors Overlook Sewer Systems

Inspectors might overlook the sewer system for two reasons. One is that the vast majority of a sewer system is underground. It’s out of sight and out of mind. The second reason is that most home inspectors don’t have the specialized equipment or knowledge necessary to do a proper sewer line inspection

This isn’t a slam against house inspectors. Far from it. Many inspectors are extremely competent and have a vast amount of general building knowledge. It’s tough to be an overall expert when you consider just how many pieces there are in a home’s systems. Just the plumbing system alone is extensive, and good inspectors know what plumbing features to check before buying a home.

Sewer Repairs Can Be Extremely Expensive

You might wonder, “Do I need a sewer line inspection before buying a house?” The answer is yes. A sewer inspection should be a mandatory part of your house inspection checklist. When considering what inspections to get when buying a house, do not overlook the sewer line. In fact, getting a sewer inspection is one of the most important home inspection tips for first-time buyers. Sewer line inspections are cheap, but sewer repairs can be extremely expensive. Why spend the money on a repair when you could have avoided with a simple inspection?

The Worst-Case Sewer Line Scenario

Consider this worst-case scenario. After months of shopping, you’ve finally found the home of your dreams. It’s a heritage home and at the top end of your budget, but appears to be a good deal. You’ve done your due diligence and hired a home inspector. The report came back with a clean bill of health, and you happily move in. But, three months later, you have a problem.

How to Choose a Leak Detector

It is essential that you choose the best refrigerant leak detector that suits your requirements. But what are the qualities that you should look for before selecting a product? Let’s find out:

Works Fast

A device that works fast is considered the best leak detector as it allows you to reach different locations to check on leaks quickly. You should look for detectors with little warm-up time, quality sensors, and instantaneous time response.

Detects a Wide Variety of Refrigerants

Although you may not need a leak detector capable of detecting all types of refrigerant make sure that the one you choose is capable of detecting the refrigerant you are going to be working with. Devices that detect a variety of refrigerants are usually expensive, therefore apply your expertise and check your field applications before picking the right one.

 

How to Choose and Why Use Leak Detectors?

Refrigerant leak detection

The chart below shows the most common groups of refrigerants we use. With the wide variety of refrigerants now available we have to ensure that the type of leak detector we are using is both suitable and SAFE to use with the refrigerant in the system. Most electronic leak detectors are suitable for CFC, HCFC and HFC’s. Caution should be taken to use suitable electronic leak detectors with HC’s which are flammable. We must not forget soapy water as a very effective leak detector. Many people discount it, but for finding leaks it is possibly the most effective method and lots of people have certainly used it to successfully find some very small leaks.

Leak Detector Maintenance

Having selected the appropriate leak detector for the job it is important to be sure the equipment is working. Most of the electronic leak detectors need regular calibration and the corona discharge and heated diode types require sensor changes at regular intervals. Read the manufacturers instructions as a leak detector that is not working is not obvious to the user. DO NOT open a bottle of refrigerant over your detector head to prove that it is working – even a sensor that is spent will sense that, come to that so would you!

 

How To Choose A Leak Testing Method That’s Best For Your Needs

Choosing the right method

Several factors need to be considered when it comes to choosing a leak detection method.

The first question to ask is what are the tightness criteria that need to be detected?  Highly sensitive helium leak detection is the best way of detecting leak tightness in the range of 1 x 1–7 mbar*l/s or lower, but if your required leak rate is above this value, then there are numerous other possibilities.

Another question to ask is how important are cycle/throughput times?  If your application involves testing of 100% of components or parts in a production line, then speed is an important consideration.  If your leak testing challenge is limited to sample testing and laboratory applications, then throughput times aren’t such a critical factor in your choice of leak testing technology.

The design of the part under test – and specifically the design of the seals – should also be considered.  Leak testing often involves pressurising a part to its maximum operating pressure, and some seals will perform better under higher pressure and vacuum than others.

 

Best Methods for Refrigerant Leak Detection

Ultrasonic

Uses sound amplification.  Acts on the high frequency sound pitch that occurs when gas passes through an orifice.  This method may not be accurate on small leaks because not enough sound is generated through a small orifice.

Corona Discharge

Air is pulled through an energized electrical field around an electrode.  Refrigerant gases are broken down by the electric arc (corona discharge) and detected by the sensor.  The presence of a detectable gas changes the current flow in the electrode and triggers an alarm.  Gases other than refrigerant can trigger an alarm, giving the appearance of a leak when there may not be one (false alarm).  The sensor may degrade over time and need to be replaced.  It should be checked regularly against a calibrated reference leak to ensure correct operation.  Do not use in the presence of combustible gases.

Heated Diode

Air is pulled over a heated diode.  Halogenated gases are broken down by the heater resulting in a change in current flow through the diode.  The change in current through the diode triggers an alarm.  The heated diode sensor is sensitive to excess refrigerant in addition to other contaminates such as moisture and oil resulting in sensor degradation.  Because of sensor degradation, the heated diode sensor must be checked regularly for accuracy and replaced within 100 hours of use.  When exposed to contamination including excess refrigerant, the sensor could fail much more quickly.  For this reason, sensors must be checked regularly against a calibrated reference leak to ensure correct operation.  Do not use in the presence of combustible gases.

Heated Electrolyte

Air is pulled over a heater that is in the presence of an electrolytic material that reacts with the broken down halogenated refrigerant gasses.  Halogenated gases result in a change in current flow between the heater electrode and the electrolyte which triggers an alarm.  Like the heated diode sensor, the electrolytic sensor is sensitive to excess refrigerant and other contaminants resulting in sensor degradation.  Excess refrigerant exposure can have a quick impact on sensor life.  A heated electrolyte detector must be checked regularly with a calibrated reference leak to ensure that it can accurately detect a refrigerant leak.  Do not use in the presence of combustible gases.

Infrared

Air is pulled through an optical window in the infrared sensor.  Refrigerant gases absorb IR Radiation.  The optical sensor senses this and triggers an alarm, depending on how much IR has been absorbed.  This technology is very accurate and has been the technology of choice in lab settings for many years.  It has only recently (last 5 years approx.) been introduced to the field in the form of portable hand held leak detectors.  The refrigerant isn’t broken down by heat and doesn’t directly contact the sensor, thus the sensor isn’t subject to contamination.  Sensor life expectancy is over 1000 hours or the life of the leak detector.  To ensure accuracy, the infrared detector should be checked regularly against a calibrated reference leak.

 

Refrigerant Leak Detection Methods

How to Find a Refrigerant Leak

As an HVAC professional, you have a business responsibility to find and fix refrigerant leaks through preventative and corrective maintenance. In addition, various regulatory jurisdictions at the local, state, and federal levels (e.g., EPA 608) require regular leak inspections.

These requirements to find refrigerant leaks can be successfully met by employing the best refrigerant leak detection method(s) for your job needs. Refrigerant leak detection methods include, but are not limited to:

soap bubble method;

fluorescent dye method; or

electronic leak detection method.

As you can see, there are numerous methods that you can use; each with their own benefits, and this is where you need to pay close attention. That’s why we are going to start by looking at the more traditional methods and then move to the newer methods. By the end, you will find out which methods are best.

Soap Bubble Method

The soap bubble method is a mainstay that has been relied upon by residential technicians for decades. It’s fairly self-explanatory. In essence, you apply soapy water or a leak detection spray to see if there are leaks at certain points. Bubbles should appear at leakage points.

While common and trusted, what undermines the soap bubbles method is the fact that it can be difficult to pinpoint leaks under certain conditions, such as if the leak is very small or if it is windy outdoors. That’s why it may be most beneficial for you to use the soap bubble method in combination with another method, particularly with one of the electronic leak detection methods.