What Causes Pool Leaks? Common Problems and How to Fix Them
A pool is a major investment and a centerpiece of fun and relaxation for many homeowners. However, even with the best care, pool leaks can develop, often without you even realizing it. A leaking pool can result in higher water bills, wasted chemicals, and, over time, can cause serious structural damage to your pool. Understanding what causes pool leaks and how to fix them is essential to maintaining a healthy and functional pool.
At USA Leak Detector, we specialize in identifying the cause of pool leaks and providing accurate solutions. In this article, we’ll walk you through some of the most common causes of pool leaks, how to spot them, and what you can do to fix them.
1. Cracks in the Pool Shell
One of the most common causes of pool leaks is cracks in the pool shell. Whether your pool is made of concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl, the surface can develop small fractures over time due to wear and tear, ground movement, or settling. These cracks allow water to seep out, often unnoticed unless the leak is significant.
How to Spot It:
- Sudden drops in water level.
- Wet spots around the pool area, especially near the cracks.
- Pools that feel rough or have visible cracks on the surface.
How to Fix It:
- Small cracks can be repaired using specialized pool crack fillers or epoxy for fiberglass pools.
- Larger cracks might require professional resurfacing or re-plastering of the pool shell.
- It’s best to hire a professional pool technician to assess and repair any significant cracks to prevent further damage.
2. Leaks in Pool Equipment
Pool equipment such as pumps, filters, heaters, and valves are all connected to the plumbing system. Over time, these components can become damaged due to wear, poor installation, or extreme weather conditions. Leaking equipment or faulty seals can lead to water loss and potential damage to the equipment itself.
How to Spot It:
- A sudden drop in water level when the pool equipment is running.
- Water pooling around your pool equipment, such as the pump or filter.
- Decreased efficiency or unusual noises from your equipment.
How to Fix It:
- Inspect the pool equipment and check for visible leaks around the seals, valves, or connections.
- Tighten any loose fittings and replace worn-out seals or O-rings.
- If you cannot locate the source of the leak, consider contacting a professional technician to conduct a pressure test on the plumbing system and repair any faulty equipment.
3. Damaged Pool Plumbing
Cracks or leaks in the underground plumbing system are often difficult to detect, but they can cause significant water loss over time. Leaks in pool plumbing can occur in the main drains, skimmers, return lines, or in pipes running underground between the pool and the equipment.
How to Spot It:
- Unexplained drops in water level when the pool is not in use.
- Wet patches or pooling water on the ground near the pool equipment or deck.
- Poor water circulation or weak suction in the skimmer.
How to Fix It:
- Detecting leaks in underground pipes requires specialized tools like pressure testing, dye testing, or electronic leak detection systems.
- Once the leak is pinpointed, the damaged pipes will need to be repaired or replaced, which may require excavation or access through the pool’s surface.
4. Damaged or Aging Pool Liner
For vinyl-lined pools, the liner is a common place for leaks. Over time, vinyl liners can become brittle, tear, or develop small punctures due to debris, rough pool usage, or natural wear. These leaks may be hard to detect because they can happen in the seams or areas that are difficult to see.
How to Spot It:
- Water loss that appears to be coming from the pool’s liner.
- Visible tears, punctures, or discoloration on the liner surface.
- Pools that appear to have uneven levels of water.
How to Fix It:
- Small punctures or tears can often be patched with a vinyl repair kit.
- If the liner is excessively damaged or aging, replacing it with a new liner is recommended.
- A professional pool technician can inspect and repair more complex liner issues.
5. Evaporation
While evaporation is a natural process and happens to every pool, it can sometimes be mistaken for a leak. On hot, windy days, evaporation can cause noticeable water loss—typically ¼ inch or more per day—especially in outdoor pools. While evaporation isn’t a “leak,” it’s important to differentiate the two.
How to Spot It:
- If you see a drop in water level over several days but no visible signs of damage or wet spots, it could be evaporation.
- To test, turn off the pool pump for a day and monitor the water level. If the water level continues to drop, there’s likely a leak.
How to Fix It:
- If you suspect that evaporation is the issue, consider using a pool cover to reduce the effects of heat and wind.
- In areas with high evaporation, adding water regularly and adjusting your pool’s chemical balance may be necessary.
How USA Leak Detector Can Help
If you suspect a pool leak but are unsure of where it’s coming from, it’s time to bring in the experts. At USA Leak Detector, we use advanced technology to detect and diagnose leaks accurately and efficiently. Our team employs acoustic sensors, thermal imaging, and dye testing to identify leaks in hard-to-reach areas, such as plumbing systems and pool shells.
Don’t wait until a small leak becomes a big problem. Pool leaks can cause costly water loss, equipment damage, and even structural issues. If you notice any of the signs listed above, contact USA Leak Detector today for a comprehensive pool leak inspection.
Contact USA Leak Detector today for fast, reliable, and accurate pool leak detection. Our trained technicians are ready to help you solve your pool problems and keep your investment in top condition!