Final answer:
Gas tracer method is the most effective for locating the general area of a small leak.
Step-by-step explanation:
A gas tracer method is considered to be the most effective for locating the general area of a small leak, according to the EPA. Gas tracing involves introducing a detectable gas, such as helium or sulfur hexafluoride, into the system and then using specialized equipment to detect its presence and pinpoint the leak location.