Owning a pool offers endless fun and relaxation but also comes with maintenance responsibility. One common issue pool owners face is detecting and fixing leaks. Some leaks are easy to spot, while others can be more elusive and cause significant damage if left untreated. Learning to check for pool leaks can save you time and money. Here’s a guide from a professional pool leak detection company, to help you identify leaks and determine when to call a professional.
Keep an Eye on Your Water Levels
A consistent drop in water levels is often the first sign of a pool leak. Pools naturally lose water through evaporation, and splashing a significant drop indicates a problem. To monitor your water levels, mark the water level on the pool wall with a piece of tape or a marker. Check the level after 24 hours. If the water drops more than a quarter inch, you probably leak. It’s also important to check if the water loss occurs when the pump is on and off. The leak might be in the plumbing if the water level drops only when the pump is off.
Try the Bucket Test
The bucket test helps determine whether water loss is due to evaporation or a leak. Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on a pool step, ensuring the water level inside the bucket matches the pool’s outside water level. Mark the water levels inside and outside the bucket. After 24 hours, compare the levels. If the pool water level has dropped more than the bucket’s water level, you likely leak.
Inspect Your Pool Equipment
Leaks often originate from pool equipment. Check the pump and filter for wet spots, drips, or puddles. Look at the heater for any signs of water leakage. Examine all valves and pipe connections for moisture or corrosion, which could indicate a leak.
Look at the Pool Surface
Cracks or gaps in the pool surface can also be sources of leaks. Inspect the tile line for cracks or missing grout. Even small gaps can allow water to escape. If you have a concrete pool, check the shell for visible cracks or fissures. Look for tears or separations for vinyl-lined pools, particularly around fittings and corners.
Use a Dye Test
A dye test can help pinpoint the exact location of a leak. To perform this test, turn off the pool pump to ensure the water is still. Use a leak detection dye and inject a small amount near suspected leak areas. Watch where the dye moves. If it flows out of the pool at a specific spot, you’ve found the leak.
Examine the Ground Around Your Pool
The ground around your pool can offer clues to a leak. Look for unusual wet areas in your yard or under the pool deck. These can indicate underground leaks. Soil erosion around the pool area can also suggest a leak.
Watch Your Water Bills
An unexplained increase in your water bill can indicate a pool leak. Compare your current water usage to previous months. If you notice a significant spike without any other changes in water use, your pool might be the cause.
Know When to Call a Professional
While DIY methods can help identify leaks, certain situations require professional intervention. If you’ve performed the tests and still can’t locate the leak, it’s time to call a professional. Experts have specialized equipment to find leaks that are hard to detect. If you suspect the leak is in the pool’s plumbing system, a professional can use advanced techniques to pinpoint the issue. Significant cracks or damage to the pool’s structure should be assessed by experts who can determine the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action. If you’ve attempted repairs but still experienced water loss, a professional assessment can help identify overlooked or hidden leaks.
Benefits of Professional Leak Detection
Hiring a professional pool leak detection company offers several advantages. Professionals use advanced tools and techniques to locate leaks accurately, minimizing guesswork. Once the leak is located, professionals can provide effective repair solutions, ensuring the problem is fixed correctly. By addressing leaks promptly and accurately, you can avoid costly water bills and prevent further damage to your pool and property. Knowing that your pool is in the hands of experts provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your pool without worry.
Enjoying a Well-Maintained Pool
Regularly checking your pool for leaks and performing necessary maintenance helps keep it in top condition. While DIY methods can catch many issues early, feel free to call a professional if the problem persists or seems complex. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can protect your investment and enjoy your pool to the fullest.
