A swimming pool provides a fantastic opportunity for individuals and families to exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Swimming is a universally beloved recreational activity enjoyed by people of all ages.
How to Find and Fix Swimming Pool Leaks
Beyond the fun of splashing around, recreational swimming offers many physical and mental benefits. It is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a healthy and enjoyable way to de-stress and stay active.
Water remains the major component of the pool. While losing a certain amount due to evaporation and over-enthusiastic splashing is inevitable, a leak can cause a drastic drop in the water level.
On average, a pool loses a quarter-inch of water daily to evaporation. This might be higher in areas with really high temperatures. However, if you lose up to half an inch of water daily or experience a sudden change in the amount of water lost, it may result from a leak.
Once you notice this, do not hesitate to contact a reputable pool leak detection company in your area for an instant fix, as a delay might result in more damage that can be costlier to repair.
A long-term leak can cause damage to the pool’s structure and your home foundation. This is also without mentioning the increased energy and water bills, as you will need to refill the pool consistently.
Signs your pool is leaking
A leak in your pool is best tackled if detected early. Below are some signs to always watch out for;
Lower water level
It is an easy-to-notice sign. Monitor your pool’s water regularly, especially during periods of minimal evaporation.
If you notice a significant drop in the water level without any explanation, it is likely caused by a leak.
Increase in utility bills
If you observe a sudden change in your water bill without any differences in usage, it could be due to a leak. A leaking pool can also spike your electricity bill as the continuous re-addition of water will require more heating energy.
Constant change in chemical levels
Leaks can significantly impact your pool’s chemical levels, making it challenging to maintain a healthy and balanced environment for swimming.
For instance, calcium hardness usually accumulates in pools due to evaporation; a significant leak can, however, dilute it.
Low calcium hardness can lead to scaling on pool surfaces and equipment.
Algae growth
As water leaks, it takes with it certain chemicals like chlorine, which are needed to sanitize the water. This can lead to a rapid drop in chlorine levels, creating an environment for bacteria and algae to thrive.
Equipment leaks
Check for standing water around the pool pump, filter, and other equipment. This could indicate a leak in the plumbing system or a problem with the equipment itself.
How to detect leaks in a pool
If you are not sure that the cause of the reduction in your pool water level is a leak, you can perform the tests below:
Visual inspection
Carefully inspect your pool for any signs of leaks. Check for cracks, tears, or other damage to the pool liner, skimmers, pump, filter, and other equipment.
Bucket test
- If you have an auto-fill device, turn it off.
- Fill a bucket with water, leaving a few inches at the top.
- Mark the water level inside the bucket with a marker.
- Place it on a step in the pool so that the pool water is about two-thirds up the outside of the bucket.
- Mark the outside of the bucket with a marker.
- Ensure that no human or animal enters the pool during the test. This can skew the results because they may cause water to splash out.
- Keep an eye on the sky for any rain. If it rains, you will have to start all over.
- Leave for 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, check the water levels. If the water level outside the bucket has dropped more than the inside, you likely have a leak.
Dye test
- Choose a leak-detection dye that suits your pool. Red dye is the most used. Yellow is okay for pools with dark-painted surfaces. Blue is perfect for lightly colored pools.
- Turn off the pool pump to get still water.
- Without touching the water, apply the dye with a syringe in the water close to the surface and the wall.
- The dye will move towards the location of the leak like a current.
How to fix swimming pool leaks
Simple leaks
Most pool leaks are small and can be easily handled with DIY methods. Simple leaks can be repaired with pool putty, waterproof silicone, vinyl, or plaster patches.
For simple plumbing leaks, you may need to replace the damaged section of the pipe or tighten the loose connection.
Major leaks
If the leak is large or complex, it’s best to call a professional pool repair service.
Tips to safeguard your swimming pool from leaks
- Personally conduct regular inspection and maintenance of the pool
- Always ensure the pool water is chemically balanced
- Teach users proper pool etiquette
- Use a quality pool cover
- Hire a professional for regular inspection service
