Hidden Leaks
Hidden Leaks | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Rockford
When a hidden leak is undermining your home in Rockford, you need more than a quick patch—you need pipe upgrades performed by specialists who know where trouble likes to hide. HEP’s seasoned plumbers combine non-invasive leak detection technology with meticulous craftsmanship to replace aging, corroded, or poorly installed lines before they can collapse, flood, or contaminate your water. From supply lines snaking behind walls to drainpipes buried beneath the slab, we expose the weak links without ripping your house apart, then install durable, code-compliant piping that restores full pressure, clarity, and peace of mind.
Customers choose HEP because we treat every property like our own: transparent estimates, tidy work zones, and a workmanship guarantee that outlasts the materials we install. Whether you’re renovating a historic Rockford bungalow or safeguarding a modern build, our pipe upgrades deliver the long-term reliability and efficiency your plumbing system deserves—so you can stop worrying about what’s lurking behind the drywall and start enjoying water you can trust.
FAQs
How can I tell if I have a hidden leak in my Rockford home?
Hidden leaks rarely show obvious puddles. Instead, look for unexpected spikes in your water bill, the sound of running water when fixtures are off, warm spots on slabs, mildew or musty odors, peeling paint, or unexplained foundation cracks. If you suspect a problem, our technicians use acoustic listening devices, thermal imaging, and pressure testing to locate leaks without tearing into walls.
What are the most common signs that my pipes need to be upgraded?
Frequent leaks, discolored or metallic-tasting water, low water pressure, visible corrosion on exposed piping, and pipes installed before 1990 (especially galvanized steel or polybutylene) indicate it’s time for an upgrade. Rockford’s freeze-thaw cycles and hard water accelerate pipe wear, so even copper lines over 40 years old can begin pin-holing.
Which pipe materials do you recommend for replacements in Rockford’s climate?
We primarily install Type L copper and PEX-A. Type L copper resists corrosion and carries a 50-year life expectancy, while PEX-A is flexible, freeze-resistant to –40 °F, and less prone to scale buildup from our hard water. In some commercial or high-pressure applications we may specify CPVC or Schedule 80 PVC. We never use polybutylene or galvanized steel, which are now considered obsolete.
Will upgrading my pipes improve water pressure and quality?
Yes. New piping eliminates internal corrosion and mineral buildup that restrict flow, returning full fixture pressure and reducing temperature fluctuations when multiple fixtures run. Modern copper and PEX also minimize lead content, eliminate rust, and can be paired with whole-home filtration or softening systems for even better taste and appliance longevity.
How disruptive is the pipe upgrade process? Do I need to move out?
Most single-family repipes take 1–3 days. We isolate work areas, use dust containment, and coordinate water shutoffs so you’re rarely without water for more than a few hours. Drywall cuts are kept to narrow channels and we patch, texture, and paint afterward. Homeowners can usually stay in the home throughout the project, and we clean up daily so kitchens and bathrooms remain usable whenever possible.
Are financing or insurance options available for leak detection and pipe replacement?
Yes. We offer 6-, 12-, and 24-month zero-interest financing on qualifying projects through our partner bank. If a sudden break caused water damage, your homeowner’s insurance may cover leak detection and related repairs; we provide detailed reports and work with all major carriers serving Winnebago County. Ask about our annual leak-protection plan, which includes a complimentary inspection and 10 % discount on future upgrades.