Roger Wakefield

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a new and fun way to locate water lines

As a master plumber, staying ahead of the game is crucial, and I couldn't wait to try out a new tool that has revolutionized the way we locate water lines. So, grab your wrench and join me on this journey as we dive into the world of the rattlesnake – a cutting-edge vibrating head that has changed the game for water line detection.

Unveiling the Rattlesnake:

In my latest plumbing escapade, I had the opportunity to showcase the rattlesnake, a small but mighty tool designed specifically for locating water lines. Now, let me walk you through the process step by step, just as I did in the field. And if you want to check out this device, click here.

Shutting Off the Water:

The first step in this adventure was shutting off the water. I reached in, closed the valve, and removed the meter to gain a clear shot into the water line. It's crucial to note that the rattlesnake is exclusively meant for water lines – no sewer exploration here!

Preparing for the Journey:

With the water shut off and the meter removed, I was ready to introduce the rattlesnake into the equation. This particular line was 120 feet long, providing ample room to run the rattlesnake up to the house while listening underground to pinpoint the water line's location.

Listening Underground:

The magic of the rattlesnake lies in its ability to vibrate and create audible signals underground. By running it through the water line, I could listen to the vibrations and determine the precise location of the line as I moved towards the house. This information is invaluable for future plumbing work, allowing me to identify potential leaks or cut down branches without guesswork.

Switching to the Leak Probe:

During the journey, I encountered a fitting underground, prompting a switch from the sidekick to the leak probe. The leak probe, with its stainless steel rod, allowed me to push harder without the risk of bending. This switch proved essential for pushing the rattlesnake further into the ground.

Overcoming Challenges:

No plumbing job is without its challenges. Large trucks and other external noises posed a potential threat to the accuracy of the rattlesnake's signals. Regular pauses ensured that I focused solely on the tool's vibrations, filtering out any interference.

The Marriage of Rattlesnake and Leak Pro:

The collaboration between the rattlesnake and Leak Pro was instrumental in my success. These tools worked in tandem, allowing me to confidently locate the water line. Despite hitting a fitting underground, the combined power of these devices provided me with valuable information for future plumbing projects.


In the world of plumbing, innovation is key. The rattlesnake and Leak Pro have undoubtedly earned their place in my toolkit, providing an efficient and accurate method for water line detection. A special thanks to Carl Larkin at Rattlesnake for introducing me to this game-changing equipment. Whether you're a fellow plumber or just a curious DIY enthusiast, exploring the possibilities of these tools can open up new horizons in plumbing excellence. Until next time, keep those pipes flowing smoothly!

Also, check out Leak-Pro.com for the best leak detection equipment for professional plumbers!