Detectors

Feb 20, 2012 13 Replies

I known this has been done to death in the past, but can anyone recommend a pipe/cable detector that actually works?



Common sense & a little knowledge are the best detectors of course, but we have new builds going up around here like you wouldn't believe.



Apart from the fun & games of fixing to dot'n'dab walls, the peril of plastic pipework is growing.



Quite common in downstairs cloakrooms is to plumb in the sink with small diameter plastic pipes - which go up centrally above the basin - just where you might put in a screw to fix a mirror.



Another favourite trick is to run the small diameter plastic pipes for a radiator up one side of a window - just where you might want to fix a curtain pole bracket.



These pipes are 'allegedly' supposed to be covered by metallic tape - which doesn't always show up.



I had a Lidl/Aldi detector that worked well, but has died. The B&D one I used for confirmation isn't that good.



So, any suggestions for a detector that actually works?


Zircon Triscanner pro or similar works well for me... although even that can't cope with foil backed plasterboard.

I know some water pipes can be heard if you turn on a tap by using a stethascope. At least they use no batteries!

Brian

Something radioactive dropped in the loft tank and a geiger counter?

Owain

I have one ... and works no problem. Zircon Triscanner Pro SL

I have deep studs it finds studs & cable no problem, also rebar in concrete.

If it were for a deep pipe water pipe in garden / road then I would just use a diving rod ..

Thanks Rick. Seems to be an old model, I'll try & find the equivalent.

And how will that help when drivel has fitted two combi boilers:-)?

With his pipework they won't work anyway!

The Bosch range looks good on paper, but I've no experience. Bosch stuff's usually OK though.

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I have a Bosch one and it's very good.

Bill

I've got one and it's the best I've had. And I've had a few over the years.

Bill

Which model? The GMS 120 looks nice - but should be for 95 quid! I've got a Zircon Triscanner Pro (as recommended by the late Mr. Hall), but I find its indications a bit confusing at times.

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"Inexpensive handheld terahertz cameras could be used to ... find where the studs, wires and pipes are in walls,"

MBQ

Oh no where we go ... (assuming you mean a divining rod) Simon.

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