If you suspect that your swimming pool or spa tub is leaking, don’t ignore it! Leaks add to your utility costs for water and power and can lead to many problems in your backyard. It is far more economical to repair a leak than to lose water, waste power, and possibly ruin your pool and pump system.
Your uncovered pool and spa tub will average a daily water loss of about one-quarter to one-half inch. You probably need to add water to the pool every two or three days if you leave it uncovered. You will add less water with a pool cover in place when the pool is not in use.
The evaporation rate is similar for indoor pools. A fan in the room circulating fresh air may lead to a higher evaporation level if the pool remains uncovered. Condensation on the walls and windows is an indication of moisture in the air.
If you notice the water level dropping at a faster rate, it is time for the standard bucket test. This 24-hour test will tell you if the water level is dropping faster than the evaporation rate. The pool remains uncovered and unused during the test period.
Substantial water loss in a covered pool or spa tub is easier to spot since there is less evaporation. Mark the water level in the pool or spa tub just before it is covered. Turn the pump off. Check the water level against the mark the next day.
Finding the swimming pool leak takes a little detective work. You need to check all fittings where metal meets the pool surface or the decking. This includes diving boards and water slides. Also, check steps in concrete and gunite pools. You may have a decorative fountain or waterfall as part of the pool. Check those connections.
The drain at the bottom of the pool collects debris that does not float into the skimmer. This drain needs to be cleaned and repaired immediately to avoid major water loss from water pressure. The drain may just need to be tightened. The pool does not have to be drained for the repair.
The next step is to check for loose tiles or the light fitting. Run your hands along the pool's surface checking for cracks. Check for tears in vinyl pools. Look closely at the skimmer assembly. Remove the basket and look for debris that is too big for the filter.
Check the ground around the pool. Wet decking might indicate a plumbing leak. Also check the pump, heater and filter system. Water on the pump area floor may result from a leaking hose or pump assembly. For more information about checking for pool pump leaks, check out this helpful article.
Special ultrasonic equipment is used to detect underground leaks in the plumbing system that are easily repaired. Pool surface cracks are located with a red dye in gunite pools. A special epoxy is used to fill the cracks without draining the pool. We use diving equipment to check and repair drains. Finding and fixing a small leak as soon as possible will give your pool a longer life.
Related Article: A Pool Leak Can Lead to More Problems Than You Realize
Aquaman Leak Detection serves Brevard County and all of Florida. We’ll find the swimming pool leak and repair it immediately, saving you time, water and energy so you can get back to enjoying your beautiful backyard pool.
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