Identifying and Repairing Pool Leaks Before They Cause More Damage
In the warm summer months, a refreshing dip in your pool is a great way to beat the heat. However, unexplained water loss can be a frustrating issue for pool owners. In this article, we'll discuss common areas of pool leaks, how to identify them, and ways to fix them.
First, keep an eye out for unusual water loss beyond normal evaporation—typically more than 1/4 to 1/2 inch daily. To confirm a leak, perform a simple bucket test at home. This involves filling a bucket with pool water, placing it on the pool steps, and marking the water level inside and outside the bucket. After 24 hours, compare the levels. If the water loss inside the bucket is less than the outside, it's likely that you have a pool leak[1][4][5].
Look for wet or soggy ground around the pool, which indicates water escaping from plumbing or pool structural leaks[1][2]. Inspect the pool surface for visible cracks or damage in plaster, tiles, or liner seams depending on your pool type (concrete, vinyl, or fiberglass). Even minor surface cracks can lead to leaks over time[1][4].
Inspect pool equipment for air bubbles in return lines, lowered water pressure, or reduced flow, which signal leaks in plumbing components such as skimmers, return lines, or underground slab pipes[2][3]. Isolate plumbing sections by plugging return lines and skimmers to see if water loss stops, which indicates plumbing leaks[4].
For locating leaks, use dye testing around suspected cracks, fittings, or skimmers—applying dye near leaks will show water flow toward the breach in calm water conditions[4]. Employ electronic leak detection technology or pressure tests for precise identification of leaks underground or in inaccessible spots. Specialized tools detect sounds or electrical signals from escaping water[3].
Fixes depend on leak location and severity. Surface cracks in plaster or tiles can often be patched with appropriate pool putty or sealants. Vinyl liner tears require patch kits or liner replacement if severe. Skimmer leaks might need resealing with patch materials or complete replacement of the skimmer unit[2]. Return line and underground plumbing leaks often require professional excavation and pipe repair or replacement[2][3].
Promptly addressing leaks prevents water waste, further structural damage, and costly repairs[1][2][3]. If you experience persistent or severe leaks, or leaks beneath the deck, it is advisable to engage a professional pool leak detection and repair service for best results and to avoid worsening damage[2][3][4].
Regular pool cleaning, including vacuuming and brushing, can help prevent small scratches that can lead to leaks. Vinyl pool owners can use patch kits to fix small tears and leaks in their pools without draining the water. Regularly inspecting pool equipment for loose fittings and replacing old ones can prevent future leaks.
Ignoring small cracks in the pool wall can lead to larger repairs in the future, so it's important to fix them promptly. Leaks in swimming pools are common and can be fixed with proper knowledge. Wet spots around the pool may indicate a leak in the plumbing lines or structure. Monitoring water levels and topping up as needed can help identify potential leaks.
By following these tips, you can keep your pool in top shape and enjoy carefree swimming all summer long.
[1] PoolServiceCo. (2021). Pool Leaks: Causes, Signs, and Solutions. Retrieved from https://www.poolserviceco.com/pool-leaks/ [2] PoolCare. (2021). Pool Leak Detection and Repair. Retrieved from https://www.poolcare.com/pool-leak-detection-repair/ [3] HaywardPool. (2021). Pool Leak Detection and Repair. Retrieved from https://www.haywardpool.co.uk/pool-leak-detection-repair/ [4] PoolCenter. (2021). How to Find and Fix a Pool Leak. Retrieved from https://www.poolcenter.com/blog/find-fix-pool-leak/ [5] PoolCare. (2021). Bucket Test for Pool Leaks. Retrieved from https://www.poolcare.com/bucket-test-pool-leaks/
Investigating potential leaks in your pool can help maintain both the home-improvement aspect of your backyard (home-and-garden) and your overall lifestyle, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable summer. To effectively detect leaks, try the simple bucket test at home and look for signs such as wet or soggy ground, visible cracks, or air bubbles in the return lines. Regular maintenance, like inspecting pool equipment and cleaning the pool surface, can help prevent leaks and save you from costly repairs.
