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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In the sun-drenched city of Plano, Texas, owning a backyard swimming pool is akin to…
Owning a swimming pool is a dream come true for many Dallas residents. It's a…
Discover why Mr. Pool Leak Repair is your trusted partner for pool leak detection. Expert…
Learn about common pool leaks like structural, plumbing, and skimmer issues. Trust Mr. Pool Leak…
Stay ahead with regular pool leak detection in Dallas. Save water, reduce bills, and extend…
Trust Mr. Pool Leak Repair Dallas for swift and professional pool leak detection and repair.…