How to Patch a Pool with Water in it

Aquaman Leak Detection Blog

Why Is My Pool Leaking? Top Causes of In-Ground Pool Leaks

On Jul 11, 2016

Why_Is_My_Pool_Leaking.jpgThere are many reasons for leaks in swimming pools.

  • Pumps and motor problems can cause a swimming pool leak.
  • General wear and tear on the pool surface can cause leaks.
  • Broken plumbing beneath the pool deck can saturate the ground.
  • Loose fittings on railings, tiles and other accessories lead to leaks.

These problems also apply to spa tubs and other in-ground water features.

It may be more difficult to find a leak in a in-ground pool, but the leak must be repaired to avoid ground saturation, flooding and water waste. Depending on the type of in-ground pool, there will be different risk factors for leaks.

Fiberglass Pools

This type of pool or spa tub can last for 25 years or more without problems. Fiberglass in-ground pools and hot tubs are pre-fabricated shells that are placed in a hole prepared for their size. They should be set in gravel, although many fiberglass pools are backfilled with sand.

Cracks and leaks can occur in the plumbing when the surrounding sand becomes saturated or it settles. Finding plumbing leaks is not easy since the intake and return lines are under the pool decking.

Fiberglass pools may also have fissures in the gelcoat surface from improper handling and installation. These cracks should be repaired and repainted to keep the fissures from spreading and causing leaks.

The pool must remain full to maintain enough pressure to keep the surrounding ground from pushing a bulge into the fiberglass shell. This can happen when the ground is wet from rain or a leak.

Vinyl Pools

Tears in the vinyl lining are a major cause of swimming pool leaks in this type of surface. Sharp objects hitting the side of the pool or a careless swimmer can cause a tear in the vinyl surface.

Vinyl tears are easy to patch but they must be treated immediately to stop the leak from spreading.

Concrete Pools

Many in-ground swimming pools in Florida are concrete or gunite, the gravel and concrete composite. These are the most durable pools with a lifespan of decades.

A crack or fissure in the pool's surface must be repaired immediately. This type of crack can come from age or sharp objects hitting the side of the pool. Decorative tiles can become detached from the surface. Railings, the skimmer pad and other fittings can also become loose.

The repair may be as simple as injecting a flexible polymer adhesive into a swimming pool leak. This can be applied while the pool is filled.

Pumps and Plumbing

Underground leaks can be caused by corrosion or movements in the ground. PVC pipes can be easily repaired unless damage is extensive. Then they have to be replaced.

Sophisticated sonar equipment is used by Aquaman Leak Detection to find and fix a swimming pool leak from plumbing lines under the decking. The entire deck does not have to be torn up to repair a return line leak.

Suction lines that carry water to the filter, heater and chlorinator must be check for leaks. This system starts at the skimmer that is designed to keep the piping free of debris.

Pumps should also be checked for wear in the system. A new impeller or hose may be necessary.

Aquaman Leak Detection will make emergency calls to Brevard and 10 neighboring counties in Central Florida to diagnose and fix leaks. We offer modern technology to find and repair leaks. Our service includes our warranty. Contact us with any questions if you suspect your swimming pool is leaking.

The Complete Guide to Swimming Pool Ownership

Aquaman

By Aquaman

We now proudly serve all of Florida. Each of our trained and certified pool leak detection specialists utilize the most advanced methods and technologies.

Blog Comments