When you own a pool, you know that it requires constant maintenence. It is necessary to check for pool leaks on a regular basis. The leak may be small and easy to fix so it's best to catch it right away. Start with the easy bucket test if you suspect a leak. This is part of basic maintenance for a swimming pool or hot tub spa.
Swimming pools and hot tubs can be freestanding designs surrounded by decking or just standing alone on a patio deck. The pump motor, heater, chlorinator and filter lines are often located under the deck or steps in many spas and smaller splash pool models. Intake and return lines are often above ground and they can break causing leaks into the ground. This is a section of the freestanding pool that should be checked frequently.
Freestanding pools are usually fiberglass and very durable. The gelcoat is smooth. The pool shell is a one-piece unit with steps, seats and other features part of the molded shell. They seldom crack unless they are hit with a very hard object. They last for decades with proper care. The only additions may be metal railings and light fixtures, depending on the size and model.
All fittings and lights should be checked. They should fit snugly against the surface of the pool. Pool covers that fit tightly will prevent evaporation. Covers generally come with freestanding fiberglass spa tubs and smaller pools. If you notice a lowered water level in your covered above-ground hot tub or pool, immediately check the decking and ground around it for water. Wet ground is an indication of a leak.
Always check for pool leaks in the vinyl liners of in-ground pools. The softer, non-porous material can rip and tear if it comes into contact with any sharp object. The lining is only 20-30 millimeters thick. The vinyl pool liner will last seven to ten years on average with proper care.
Vinyl pools come with repair patch kits that must be applied immediately when a tear is located. These in-ground pools must be carefully checked before and after use. A tear in the vinyl surface can ruin the pool and flood the surrounding ground.
Gunite, commonly used for in-ground pools, is a mixture of sand and concrete. This is a porous surface and it is still the most popular for home and commercial pools. Gunite pools can feature colorful tiles and mosaics which are trendy in newer pools. This is the material used in the infinity or rimless pool. Freeform designs and shapes of any size can be created with this material. Waterfalls and other decorative elements can be added connecting a spa tub to the pool.
Steps and other features are added as the pool is constructed so there is some joint work. The tiles are added to the surface after the pool shell is completed. Railings and light fixtures are attached before the pool is filled.
The concrete structure and its surfacing materials are very strong but cracks and leaks can occur with misuse. The surface has to be checked, especially if it is tiled. Loose tile and grouting can eventually lead to leaks if not repaired. Check for pool leaks where all metal fittings meet the surface of the pool. This is not hard to do since you will know if a railing is wobbly.
Check the surrounding decking and ground for standing water. This may be an indication of an underground leak in the pool's plumbing lines.
Contact Aquaman Leak Detection for more detailed inspections of your pool and spa if you experience unusual water loss. Plugging and repairing leaks immediately saves water and energy costs.
Aquaman Leak Detection serves all of Florida with expert service using the latest high-tech equipment to find and repair leaks.
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