Pin Hole Leak Investigation and Repair at Toronto Pearson Airport – Inside Our Emergency Plumbing Response

Commercial Leak Emergencies Can’t Wait

In critical facilities like airports, plumbing problems need to be identified and resolved fast. One such issue recently brought our team to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), where we were asked to investigate an unexplained water leak affecting a domestic hot water line.

With decades of experience in commercial plumbing and emergency leak repairs, our Oakville-based crew at 17 Plumbing was ready for the challenge. What we found behind the walls highlighted why pin hole leaks are one of the most deceptive and damaging plumbing issues.

What Is a Pin Hole Leak?

A pin hole leak is a tiny puncture or corrosion spot in a copper pipe—often caused by internal water chemistry, wear, or stray electrical grounding. Though small, the pressure behind the leak can cause major water loss and structural damage if not detected early.

These leaks are especially common in older copper systems and are hard to detect without opening walls or using specialized equipment.

On-Site at YYZ: Our Investigation Process

🔎 Step 1: Initial Site Assessment

We arrived at the site and were briefed on the symptoms:

Visible signs of damp insulation
Reduced hot water pressure
No obvious pipe rupture or exposed damage

This indicated a concealed or localized leak, likely under insulation or inside the wall cavity.

🔧 Step 2: Targeted Wall Opening and Inspection

After isolating the hot water feed line and shutting off the water supply, we carefully opened the affected wall section and began stripping back insulation.

Within minutes, we found the culprit:
➡️ A small pin hole leak in a section of aged copper piping, hidden behind layers of thermal insulation and surrounded by tight conduit and framing.

🧰 Step 3: Copper Pipe Repair and System Recovery

We proceeded with:

Cutting the damaged copper segment
Cleaning and deburring the area
Installing a new press-fit copper connection
Reinsulating and sealing the cavity

The repair was completed with minimal disruption to surrounding systems, and water pressure was fully restored within hours.

Why Quick Action Matters in Facilities Like Airports

Airports are high-volume environments where plumbing failures can:

Interrupt HVAC and heating systems
Cause water damage to electrical rooms or control areas
Trigger code violations or shutoffs

By responding immediately and executing a clean repair, our team helped ensure uninterrupted operations at one of Canada’s busiest transportation hubs.

Exposed hot water pipes and insulation during leak investigation at Toronto Pearson Airport

Close-up view of newly soldered copper pipe during emergency plumbing repair at airport facility

Completed pinhole leak repair on hot water line with new copper fittings and pipe insulation

Electrical and plumbing access panel opened to assess domestic hot water leak behind the wall

Photos From the Field: Behind the Repair

Here’s a look at the job:

Exposed copper lines and fittings
Thermal insulation peeled back
New copper installed in-line
Wall cavity resealed after inspection

How to Spot a Pin Hole Leak Before It Becomes a Problem

Signs to look for:

Water stains on walls or ceilings
Discoloration or corrosion on exposed pipes
Decreased water pressure in hot water systems
Audible hissing or dripping near pipes

If you suspect a hidden leak—especially in a commercial or industrial setting—don’t wait. The damage adds up fast.

Why Trust 17 Plumbing for Commercial Emergency Repairs?

We specialize in:

Emergency response for commercial plumbing failures
Pin hole leak detection in copper and PEX systems
Pipe replacement and insulation repair
Plumbing service for airports, hospitals, and high-rise buildings

📍 Based in Oakville.
📞 Available 24/7 across Oakville, Mississauga, and the GTA. Emergency Plumber Oakville – 24/7 Repairs Near You
🧰 Licensed. Insured. Trusted.

Conclusion: From Detection to Repair—Handled With Precision

This job at Toronto Pearson Airport showcased our team's ability to act quickly, think critically, and deliver results where it matters most. Whether it’s a pin hole leak, burst pipe, or system failure, 17 Plumbing is proud to support critical facilities with professional, on-demand plumbing services.