A pool leak is one of the most common pool problems, and early detection can prevent costly repairs and a damaged pool.
Unfortunately, many people don’t know where to start with pool leak detection or when to check for leaks. You’ll need to look closer if you’ve been refilling your pool more than usual. Luckily, there are simple leak detection methods that allow you to find the leak quickly.
Keep reading this guide to learn the top three ways to detect a pool leak!
1. Check for Obvious Problems First
Before you dig in too deeply, you’ll need to cover the basics. You’ll first want to check around the exterior of the pool.
Look for leaks on the equipment pad and grassy areas. Check for eroding areas and wet soil.
Next, inspect the pump, heater, filter, and valves for evidence of a leak. If you have a vinyl liner, look for separations or tears around the returns, cleaner lines, and fittings.
2. Do the Bucket Test
A bucket test is an easy way to check for a leaky pool since you likely have the supplies you need. To do this test, you’ll need a 5-gallon bucket, duct tape, or waterproof marker.
Place your bucket on the second step of the pool. You’ll need to fill the bucket to match the pool’s water level. Once complete, use duct tape or a marker to mark the water level inside and outside of the bucket.
Turn off the pump and any other auto-refill pumps or devices you have. Wait for 24 hours, then compare the water level in the bucket to the pool water level. If the levels have gone down but the bucket and pool levels are the same, the water loss results from evaporation.
However, if the water in the swimming pool is lower than the water level in the bucket, you most likely have a leak.
To narrow down the source of the leak, repeat this process with the pump on for 24 hours. If the water loss in the pool is still greater than in the bucket after this test, the leak is likely somewhere in the plumbing or filter system.
3. Try the Dye Test
A dye test can help you find the exact location of the leak. First, you’ll need to purchase leak finder dye to add to your pool water. You can find this dye on Amazon or at a local store like Walmart.
You’ll also need waterproof tape to mark areas of your pool for potential leaks.
You’ll need to turn off the pump and all water features to do the test. The idea is to get the water as still as possible before you use the dye. Next, go to the pool’s edge, where you suspect the leak may be.
Squirt the dye into the water close to the wall without touching the water. If the leak is nearby, you’ll notice the dye quickly move toward the leak’s location.
If you’re still having trouble detecting the leak, it’s best to call a pool leak specialist to check for pool problems.
Pool Leak Detection
Now that you know these three pool leak detection methods, you should be able to find the leak quickly.
Don’t hesitate to get professional help if you can’t find the leak or can’t do the repair work on your own. Professional companies will come up with long-term pool solutions that you can afford.
Make sure to check out the rest of our blog to learn more lifestyle tips!
