Heating and hot water leak detection for care homes

What to record when a care home heating system loses pressure

Record when the pressure falls, how often the system needs topping up and which areas of the home are affected, before the engineer visits. Pressure loss can have several causes, so a leak investigation should follow an assessment of the system.

How are hidden heating and hot water pipe leaks found?

Engineers may combine thermal imaging, acoustic listening, pressure testing and tracer gas to trace a leak in concealed heating or hot water pipework. Thermal images show temperature differences; the engineer uses other evidence to assess whether those differences indicate a leak.

• Radiator circuits and distribution pipework
• Underfloor heating loops
• Concealed hot water supplies
• Connections around plant rooms

Planning heating and hot water isolations in a care home

Tell ADI about heating-sensitive areas, peak hot water demand and backup arrangements so any isolation can be planned around residents and staff. The home’s responsible staff must authorise isolations and agree how affected residents and staff will be supported.

What happens after a heating leak is found?

The findings can guide targeted access and a repair, so confirm which repair work the quotation includes and which needs a separate contractor.