If you own an inground pool, one of the last things you want is a leak. Pool leaks can happen for a variety of reasons, leading to water loss, increased water bills, and potential damage to the surrounding area. Detecting an inground pool leak early is key to preventing further issues and avoiding costly repairs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common signs of a pool leak, methods for detecting leaks, and when it’s time to call a professional for pool leak detection services.
Signs Your Inground Pool May Have a Leak
Before diving into detection methods, it’s important to know how to recognize the signs that your inground pool may have a leak. Water loss is the most obvious indicator, but it’s not always straightforward to tell whether it’s due to a leak or other environmental factors like evaporation.
- Decreasing Water Level
A common sign of a pool leak is a noticeable drop in the water level. On average, pools lose about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of water per day due to evaporation, but if you’re losing more than that, there could be a problem. You may notice that the water level is significantly lower after a few days, and this could indicate a leak.
If you’re unsure if the water loss is due to a leak or evaporation, try the bucket test (which we’ll cover later). This simple test can help you rule out evaporation and confirm whether a leak is the cause.
- Increased Water Bills
If you’re seeing a sudden spike in your water bills and you’re consistently topping off your pool, this could be another sign of a pool leak. When your pool is leaking, it requires more water to maintain the proper level, leading to increased costs.
- Standing Water or Wet Spots Around the Pool
If you notice standing water or wet spots around the pool’s perimeter or in the yard near your pool, this could mean that water is escaping from the pool and seeping into the surrounding ground. This is especially true if the ground around the pool feels soggy or marshy.
- Algae or Staining in Unusual Areas
Algae growth can sometimes be an indirect result of a pool leak. If your pool’s water is leaking out, it can upset the chemical balance, leading to algae growth in unusual areas, even after chemical treatments. Additionally, you might see stains on the pool’s walls or floors near the source of the leak.
How to Detect If Your Inground Pool Has a Leak
Once you suspect a pool leak, the next step is to confirm it. Here are a few effective methods for detecting leaks in your inground pool.
- The Bucket Test
If you suspect your pool is losing water, the bucket test is an easy way to find out whether it’s caused by evaporation or an actual leak. Follow these steps:
- Fill a bucket — Use a 5-gallon bucket, fill it with water from your pool, and set it on a pool step so the water level inside the bucket matches the water level outside.
- Mark the levels — Use a waterproof marker or tape to mark the water level inside the bucket and the pool water level outside the bucket.
- Let it sit — Turn off your pool pump and leave the bucket undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours.
- Check the results — After the wait, compare the two water levels. If the water level outside the bucket has dropped more than the level inside, it’s a strong sign your pool has a leak.
This test can help you rule out evaporation and give you a clearer indication of where the problem might be. If the water loss is more than 1/4 to 1/2 inch per day, a leak is likely the cause.
- Check for Leaks Around Pool Fittings
Leaks often occur around fittings, such as return jets, skimmers, and pool lights. These areas are common spots to quickly check for leaks that have developed, especially if the gaskets or seals have worn out.
- Skimmers: Inspect the skimmer gaskets and the area around the skimmer for cracks or gaps that could be causing water loss.
- Return Jets: Check the return jets for loose fittings or damaged seals. Sometimes, a small tear or gap around these jets can cause water to leak.
- Lights: Pool lights are another common source of leaks. If the gasket around the light fixture is damaged or the conduit is cracked, water can escape from the pool.
For these areas, it’s best to turn off the pump, drain the pool slightly, and inspect each fitting carefully. If you see any visible cracks or gaps, you may need to replace the gasket or fitting to stop the leak.
- Inspect the Pool Liner
If your inground pool has a vinyl liner, it’s important to check the liner for any tears or holes. Over time, the liner can become damaged, especially in areas where there’s a lot of foot traffic, such as around the pool steps.
- Visual Inspection: Look for visible cracks, tears, or worn-out areas in the liner. If the damage is minor, it might be repairable with a vinyl patch kit.
- Dye Test: If you suspect a leak but can’t find any visible damage, use a dye test. Fill a syringe with pool dye and slowly squirt it around the seams of the liner, particularly in corners or areas that are prone to wear. If you see the dye being sucked into the hole, you’ve found the source of the leak.
- Check the Pool Equipment
Sometimes, the issue isn’t the pool itself but the equipment that’s connected to it. The pool pump, filter, and plumbing can all develop leaks over time, causing water loss.
- Pump: Check the pump for leaks, especially around the seal and connections. If the pump is leaking, it might be drawing in air, which can cause your pool’s water level to drop.
- Filter: Inspect the filter for any visible cracks or leaks around the backwash valve or pressure side. If the filter is leaking, it could cause water loss that’s difficult to detect without close inspection.
- Pressure Testing the Plumbing
If the above methods don’t pinpoint the leak, you may need to perform a pressure test on the plumbing. This process involves using specialized equipment to test the integrity of the pipes and plumbing lines that run underground. Professionals use pressure testing equipment to measure the pressure in your pool’s plumbing system. If the pressure drops, it indicates a leak in the system.
When to Call a Professional for Pool Leak Detection
While the above methods can help you detect many pool leaks on your own, some leaks are more difficult to locate or repair. If you’re unable to find the leak after trying the DIY methods, or if the leak is in a complex location like underground plumbing, it’s time to call in the experts.
A pool leak detection service can quickly and accurately identify the source of the leak using specialized tools like pressure testing, infrared cameras, and dye tests. Pool professionals have the experience and equipment necessary to pinpoint even the smallest leaks, which can save you time and money in the long run.
At Mr. Pool Leak Repair, we offer reliable and efficient pool leak detection services in Texas. Our team of experienced professionals uses state-of-the-art equipment to detect leaks and fix them promptly. We offer a variety of repair options, including patching small leaks, replacing pool fittings, and repairing underground plumbing. We offer some of the longest warranties in the industry, ensuring peace of mind for all of our customers.
If you suspect a leak in your inground pool, don’t wait. Contact us for a professional evaluation and expert repair services.
