Maintaining a swimming pool can be a rewarding but demanding task. One of the more challenging aspects of pool maintenance is dealing with leaks. Pool leaks can lead to significant water loss, increased utility bills, and potential damage to the pool and surrounding areas if not addressed quickly. Detecting a leak early can save you time, money, and frustration. To help you in your pool journey, we’ve compiled seven essential pool leak detection tips to help you identify and address leaks in your pool.

1. Monitor Water Levels

One of the most straightforward pool leak detection tips is to keep a close eye on your water levels. Pools naturally lose water due to evaporation, splash-out, and backwashing. However, if you notice a substantial drop in water levels over a short period, you may have a leak.

first of our 7 pool leak detection tips

How to Monitor Pool Water Loss:

  • Mark the Water Level: Use a piece of tape or a waterproof marker (non-permanent) to mark the water level on the inside of the pool.
  • Measure Daily: Check the water level at the same time each day and record any changes. Do this daily if you suspect a leak, otherwise, it’s just good to keep an eye on the water level.
  • Consider Environmental Factors: Take note of weather conditions such as high temperatures, wind, and humidity, which can accelerate evaporation.

If the water level drops more than 1/4 inch per day, you might have a leak. If you think that you have a leak, the next step is going to be perfect for you!

2. Perform the Bucket Test

Pool bucket test

This is our favorite of all of the pool leak detection tips. The bucket test is a simple and reliable method to determine if your pool is losing water due to a leak or evaporation.

It’s very simple, quick to get results, and most of the time it’s free.

The concept of a pool bucket test is simply that you compare the evaporation rate (the water in your bucket) against how much water you are losing in your pool.

Steps for the Bucket Test:

  1. Fill a Bucket: Fill a 5-gallon bucket with pool water to about one inch from the top.
  2. Place the Bucket: Place the bucket on a pool step, ensuring the water level inside the bucket matches the pool water level outside the bucket.
  3. 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.
  4. Wait 24 Hours: Let the bucket sit for 24 hours, then compare the two water levels. If the pool water level has dropped more than the bucket level, you likely have a leak.

Click here for more detailed step-by-step of how to do a bucket test: How to do a pool bucket test

3. Inspect the Pool Equipment

Of all the pool leak detection tips, this one might be overlooked the most. Pool equipment, including the pump, filter, heater, and plumbing connections, can develop leaks over time. Regularly inspecting these components is one of the key pool leak detection tips.

Pool equipment

Steps to Inspect Equipment:

  • Pump and Filter: Look for visible drips, wet spots, or pooling water around these components.
  • Heater and Valves: Inspect for corrosion or water stains, which can indicate leaks.
  • Plumbing Connections: Ensure all hoses and fittings are tight and free from cracks or damage.

Here’s a great article from PoolWerks about keeping your pool equipment running great: How to Keep Your Pool Equipment in Top Condition

4. Check the Pool Shell

Cracks or damage in the pool shell can lead to significant water loss. Thoroughly inspecting the pool’s structure is essential for detecting leaks, and it’s one of our pool leak detection tips that is often overlooked.

Checking a swimming pool for cracks or leaks

Steps to Check the Pool Shell:

  • Inspect for Cracks: Walk around the pool and examine the walls and floor for visible cracks or damage.
  • Check for Loose Tiles: Look for loose, cracked, or missing tiles, which can be a sign of underlying structural issues.
  • Test with Dye: Use pool dye or food coloring to test suspected areas. Squirt the dye near cracks, seams, or fittings and watch if it gets drawn into a particular spot.

5. Examine the Skimmer and Return Lines

The skimmer and return lines are common sources of leaks. Inspect these areas closely as part of your pool leak detection routine. This is one of the pool leak detection tips that may take a keen eye.

Technician checking for a pool skimmer leak

Steps to Examine:

  • Inspect the Skimmer: Look for cracks or damage around the skimmer. Check the skimmer basket and bucket for proper operation. It is important to also check the skimmer throat as well. The skimmer throat is the area that goes from the pool shell to the skimmer bucket. Cracks often appear in this area.
  • Check Return Lines: Examine the return lines for visible leaks or wet spots. Ensure the connections are tight and free from damage.

6. Assess the Pool’s Plumbing System

Leaks in the pool’s plumbing system can be challenging to detect but are often indicated by air in the system or inconsistent water levels.

For this section of our pool leak detection tips, you may need some professional help. But before you call, check and see if their are bubbles coming out of the jets.

If there are bubbles in the jets, but not in the pump, the break may be in the return line.

However, if you see bubbles in the pump is well, this could indicate a break in the suction side (skimmers and main drain).

Bubbles don’t necessarily mean a break, but it’s definitely an interesting note to take when you call a professional.

Single Line Pressure test

Steps to Assess Plumbing:

  • Pressure Test: If you suspect a plumbing leak, consider hiring a professional to conduct a pressure test on the system. This test can identify leaks in underground pipes.
  • Inspect Visible Plumbing: Look for visible leaks, wet spots, or damaged pipes around the equipment pad.

7. Professional Leak Detection Services

Our pool leak detection tips recommend you call a pool leak detection company once all is siad and done if you are still losing water. Sometimes, leaks can be challenging to locate with DIY methods. In such cases, professional pool leak detection services can provide advanced tools and techniques to identify and fix leaks accurately.

Benefits of Professional Services:

  • Advanced Equipment: Professionals use equipment such as electronic listening devices, pressure testing, and infrared technology to find leaks that are not visible to the naked eye.
  • Expertise: Experienced technicians can quickly diagnose and repair leaks, saving you time and preventing further damage.
  • Comprehensive Inspection: Professionals will thoroughly inspect all potential leak points, including the pool structure, plumbing, and equipment.

Swimming Pool Leak Preventive Measures and Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance and preventive measures are essential to minimize the risk of leaks and ensure the longevity of your pool:

  1. Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of your pool and equipment to catch potential issues early.
  2. Maintain Proper Water Chemistry: Balanced water chemistry prevents damage to the pool surface and plumbing, reducing the risk of leaks.
  3. Proper Winterization: In areas with cold winters, ensure your pool is properly winterized to prevent freeze damage.
  4. Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance with a professional pool technician to ensure all components are in good working condition.

Conclusion

Knowing how to detect pool leaks is crucial for maintaining your pool in optimal condition. By following these pool leak detection tips, you can identify and address leaks promptly, preventing costly repairs and water loss. Regular maintenance and professional assistance will help keep your pool in excellent condition, providing years of enjoyment and relaxation. If you suspect a leak and cannot locate it yourself, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to ensure your pool remains a refreshing oasis.