SubSurface Leak Detection LD-15 Leak Survey Instrument

SubSurface LD-15 Professional Leak Detector

Designed to detect, survey, and pinpoint water leaks with precision and reliability.

The LD-15 is engineered for advanced leak surveying and precise pinpointing tasks. It excels at detecting noise from water leaks at hydrants, meters, and valves, and offers functionality for both broad surveying and exact localization in the field.

Instrument Configuration and Durability

The LD-15 is built with a durable amplifier housing and a large backlit meter that clearly displays signal amplitude. Controls are straightforward, including volume adjustment, a mute switch that also serves as the power control, and a selectable high/low filter range. The low filter is optimized for pinpoint accuracy, while the high filter provides a wider frequency range suited for surveying longer pipe runs.

Sensor System and Range Selection

Equipped with a high-sensitivity sensor connected via a 9.75-foot cable, the LD-15 can detect leak sounds traveling through pipe infrastructure and soil. Operators toggle between a high filter (30 Hz to 5,000 Hz) for surveying and a low filter (30 Hz to 800 Hz) for pinpointing. Two notch filters (150 Hz and 180 Hz) help suppress recurrent interference from cyclical noise sources.

Field Use and Accessories

The unit arrives with essential field accessories: aviation-grade stereo headphones, a base plate for listening on paved surfaces, and a padded carrying case. Users can also attach contact rods (available in 40- and 60-inch lengths) and opt for a waist belt for hands-free access. A digital battery test ensures dependable operation, and the system includes an integrated light for visibility in low-light conditions.

Power, Size & Ruggedness

The LD-15 can deliver up to 80 hours of operation at room temp (68°F) by being powered by four C-cell alkaline batteries. The amplifier unit weighs approximately 31 ounces, with compact dimensions of 6.4 inches by 3.0 inches by 5.7 inches. It meets IP68-class performance, enabling submersible use up to three feet for three hours—essential for harsh, wet surveys.

Why Field Operators Choose the LD-15

When both large-scale leak mapping and exact leak pinpointing are essential, the LD-15 delivers. Its dual-range filtering, amplified audio-visual outputs, durable housing, and extended battery life make it a reliable tool for surveyors, utilities, and maintenance professionals.

Contact Green Equipment Company to request a quote or schedule a demo of the LD-15.

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FAQs

Q: What makes the LD-15 a premier acoustic listening device?

A: The LD-15 features a high-sensitivity sensor rated at 10 V/g — one of the highest sensitivity ratings available in a professional acoustic leak detector. Combined with high audio quality and a 9.75-foot cable length, it allows operators to listen at difficult access points without moving the instrument.

Q: What is the LD-15 best used for?

A: The LD-15 is designed as a leak survey instrument — systematically listening at hydrants, valves, and meters along a distribution main to identify which sections have leaks. It is the field scanning step used before deploying a correlator to pinpoint an exact leak location.

Q: How does the LD-15 differ from the LD-12 and LD-18?

A: The LD-15 is distinguished by its exceptionally high sensor sensitivity (10 V/g) and extended cable length (9.75 feet), which give it an edge in detecting faint leaks at depth and listening from awkward access positions. The LD-12 is a proven analog field standard; the LD-18 adds digital noise reduction for busy urban environments.

Q: What types of pipe does the LD-15 work on?

A: The LD-15 detects leaks in both metallic and plastic water distribution pipes. Its high sensor sensitivity makes it particularly effective for detecting faint leaks in larger-diameter or deeper mains where other detectors may struggle.

Q: Is the LD-15 available for demonstration before purchase?

A: Yes. Green Equipment Company offers free on-site demonstrations of SubSurface instruments across Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida. Call 1-800-391-7612 to schedule a visit.