Municipal Public Works team uses new leak detection equipment

December 22, 2025

The municipality’s Public Works team has been taking a hands-on, proactive approach to keeping local water systems in good shape. One of the tools helping them do that is special leak detection equipment that listens for water escaping from underground pipes.

Purchased in 2021, this equipment uses sound sensors to find the exact location of leaks without the need for unnecessary digging.

“This equipment has been a huge asset to the team,” says Deputy CAO Melanie Beaton. “Finding leaks early—and knowing exactly where they are means less disruption, fewer outside contractors, and a lower chance of water emergencies.”

In August 2025, Public Works staff took part in a training session with Graham MacDonald from H2O Leaks at the Whycocomagh Wastewater Treatment Plant. Staff spent the day learning new techniques and then put them into practice that night, when things are quieter and the equipment can work best. They were able to find and repair several leaks in the Whycocomagh water system, solving a water level issue that had been causing concern in the community.

Because the equipment works by detecting sound, leak detection is usually done overnight when there’s less background noise. Notices about this work and any related repairs are always shared on the municipality’s Facebook page and at invernesscounty.ca.

As the municipality continues to invest in water and wastewater upgrades across Inverness County, this equipment is helping staff take care of small issues before they become big ones—keeping water systems running smoothly for everyone.