Utility lines and metal detecting

[Hot Rockin]

So new to detecting I'm still waiting for my detector to be delivered.

How does a metal detector respond to utility lines like electric, gas etc...
I am not trying to find them but rather avoid digging any up by mistake.
Are they deeper than I am likely to dig?

I ordered a Land Ranger Pro.

 

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[bill from lachine]

First off odds are any utility lines should be deep enough as to not be an issue when metal detecting or if not at least clearly marked.

Regards + HH

Bill

 

[BigWaveDave]

I am able to identify old water lines, leading from a house to the street. Always a solid mid-tone, in a straight line.

 

[DiggerGal]

In ground is way deeper than you will ever hit. Above ground power poles you need to know will interfere with reception.

 

[The Beep Goes On]

Depends on where you are. I've noticed in a lot of sports fields and parks, the utilities may not be buried that deep. If your machine starts making a lot of noise only in certain areas then it's probably electricity. Non-electrified pipes/conduits don't send out EMF and act more like ordinary targets; they're just big - use your pinpointing function to draw them out on the ground and you'll see a straight line.

Power lines in general can be problematic - Minelab machines seem to handle them best. If you hear a cyclic hum or hear a bunch of noise there is probably a power line nearby - try raising your coil shoulder height and see if it goes away. If it doesn't it is probably above ground; if so, then below. You can try lowering the sensitivity if you want to try hunting in those areas - doesn't always work.

 

[digger460]

Cable lines will also make the machine chatter. There usually less then a foot deep. When in doubt, don't dig. I wrapped my lesche completely with electrical tape. Had a bad experience many years ago. Tip: Turn your sensitivity down if you have overhead lines. Not sure if it works underground, but I would steer clear of that anyway. HH

 

[catherine1]

Just watch out for electrical lines at residences that might be buried shallow going to outside lights or landscaping, but if you do hit one it only tickles. Ha.