How to Use a Cable Detector

A pipe and cable detector is a must if you are planning on drilling, chasing into your interior walls, or drilling into the ground.

Whether you're fitting shelves, installing wiring, or drilling into the ground, using one helps you avoid damaging hidden services, and protects you from costly and potentially dangerous mistakes.

Cable detectors can identify hidden electrical wires, gas and water pipes, and other concealed services hidden behind walls or beneath the ground. If you're working with stud or partition walls, you'll also need a detector capable of locating studs and joists. Using the right detector allows you to work confidently and safely, knowing exactly where you should and shouldn't drill.

Which cable detector do I need?

When hiring pipe and cable locators, you need the correct model to detect what is necessary.

Some detectors can locate:

• Ferrous and non-ferrous metal
• Electrical wiring
• Plastic pipes and conduits
• Wood (such as studs and joists)
• Services embedded in dry concrete

If drilling outdoors or into the ground, you'll need a cable detector with strike depth capability. This can detect buried pipes and utilities such as gas pipes, power cables, and water mains.

How to Use a Cable Detector

Every cable detector works slightly differently, so it's really important to read and understand the instructions for your specific model. However, the general process below applies to most models.

To take a reading, follow the below:

1. Choose the correct mode

Every cable detector will likely have a few different modes such as:

• Quickscan
• Detailed Scan
• Recording or Survey mode

If you’re carrying out DIY like hanging shelves, pictures, or chasing shallow channels, use Quickscan mode and mark any areas to avoid with a pencil. 

For major structuring work, or if you need a detailed survey to find out what exactly is present, a more detailed scan and recording will usually be required.

If your detector has a sensitivity option, our Speedy experts recommend that you start with maximum sensitivity.

2. Place the detector

Work out roughly where you want to drill or chase into. Place your detector a few inches to the side and turn the detector on.

You will then have to move the detector slowly over the target area to detect anything. Avoid rushing this stage, as moving the detector too quickly can reduce accuracy.

3. Mark the detection areas

Make sure you have a pencil within reach to mark any areas you should avoid.

If the detector does detect something, it will emit a noise. There may also be a light, and something will show on the screen.

When something is detected, turn the sensitivity down, and move the detector slowly over the area. When a peak response is heard or seen, mark the area with a pencil.

This will give you accurate results as to where the cable or pipe is, and how large the pipe is. If you’re concerned, and your plans allow, avoid the entire detection area.

READY FOR MORE DIY TIPS?

We have a guide on underground cables in construction work, as well as how to fill in holes in your wall if you need to repair existing holes and building work.

When it is time for your next DIY project, open a Speedy account online or visit us in-store for all your tool hire needs.

Speedy has more than 200 local service centres across the nation, hire counters in selected B&Qs and nationwide 4-hour delivery. It has never been easier to hire the tools and equipment you need.

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