Hidden Leaks
Hidden Leaks | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Ooltewah
When water bills spike or walls whisper with the sound of trickling water, Ooltewah homeowners turn to HEP for swift answers. Our licensed plumbers specialize in uncovering hidden leaks with cutting-edge acoustic and infrared tools, pinpointing trouble spots before they blossom into soaked drywall, mold, or foundation damage. From aging copper lines corroded by Tennessee’s mineral-rich water to brittle PVC that’s outlived its prime, we’ve seen—and fixed—it all.
Once the sneaky leak is traced, we don’t just patch and dash; we future-proof your plumbing through comprehensive pipe upgrades. Using durable PEX or commercial-grade copper, we replace compromised sections or revamp the entire supply system, boosting flow, water quality, and peace of mind in one visit. Clear pricing, tidy workmanship, and a workmanship warranty mean you can stop worrying about what’s happening behind the walls and start enjoying a reliably dry, efficient home. HEP makes hidden leaks history and turns “out of sight” into “out of mind.”
FAQs
How can I tell if I have a hidden plumbing leak in my Ooltewah home?
Some of the most common warning signs include an unexplained spike in your water bill, the sound of running water when no fixtures are on, warm or damp spots on floors or walls, moldy or musty odors, and a continuously running water meter. If you notice any of these indicators, scheduling professional leak detection quickly can prevent structural damage and high utility costs.
Why should I upgrade aging galvanized, polybutylene, or CPVC pipes instead of just repairing leaks?
Older piping materials corrode, become brittle, and develop pinhole leaks over time. Each repair fixes a single failure point but does not address the underlying deterioration, so leaks usually re-appear elsewhere. A proactive pipe upgrade eliminates recurring repair bills, reduces the risk of major water damage, improves water pressure and quality, and brings your home up to current plumbing codes—an important factor when selling or insuring your property.
Which pipe materials do you recommend for replacements in Ooltewah’s climate and water conditions?
For most homes we install Uponor PEX-A or Type L copper. PEX-A is flexible, resists freeze damage, and minimizes fittings behind walls. Type L copper is highly durable, UV-resistant, and preferred for exposed areas or homes with very hot water recirculation systems. We evaluate your water chemistry, budget, and installation environment before recommending the best option.
How long does a whole-house repipe take, and will I need to move out during the work?
A typical single-family residence in Ooltewah requires two to five days for a complete repipe, depending on square footage and fixture count. Water is shut off only during specific phases—usually a few hours at the start and end of each day. We set up temporary water access whenever possible, so most clients remain comfortably in their homes throughout the project.
Can pipe upgrades really increase my home’s value or lower insurance premiums?
Yes. Local real-estate agents report that buyers are willing to pay more for homes with modern plumbing because they anticipate fewer maintenance costs. Many insurance carriers also offer reduced premiums or deductibles for houses that have replaced polybutylene, galvanized, or aged copper piping, as the likelihood of water-damage claims is significantly lower.
Do you provide non-invasive leak detection and repair options, and what warranty comes with your work?
We use electronic acoustic sensors, infrared cameras, and trace gas technology to locate hidden leaks without unnecessary wall or slab demolition. For pipe replacements we use minimally invasive routing and drywall repair to leave your home looking untouched. All new piping carries a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty, and we back our labor with a 5-year workmanship guarantee—one of the strongest warranties in the Ooltewah area.