How Pool Leak Detection Services Protect Your Investment

A leaking pool can cause water bills to skyrocket and may destabilize soil beneath the deck, which could collapse the structure of the pool. Timely pool leak detection and repair is essential to thwart substantial damage. A good pool leak detection service can pinpoint the problem quickly. They start by ruling out evaporation and other causes of water loss.

Liner Leaks

A liner leak is a serious problem that not only drains your pool of water but also can cause erosion and structural problems to the subsoil and foundation of your home. The first sign is usually unexplained puddling in the yard or skyrocketing water bills. Bubbles on the bottom of your pool are another sign. They usually disappear when the groundwater retreats, but if they stick around, it is probably because of a leak in the underground plumbing.

Inground vinyl liner pools lose some water through evaporation each day, but excessive loss (over 1/2 to 1 inch per day) indicates a leak. A pool leak detection service uses a progressive series of tests to pinpoint the leak, assess its severity, and provide repair options. Tests include visual inspection; using painter’s tape to mark the water level in a 5-gallon bucket and then measuring it each day; and electronic listening devices. They also perform pressure testing, isolating sections of the plumbing to see if there is a drop in PSI, which is a common indicator of a leak.

Gasket Leaks

A pool provides hours of relaxation and fun for the whole family, but proper maintenance is often a challenge. Even minor leaks can lead to high water bills and structural damage.

Leaks are typically caused by worn gaskets and seals. Using the right gaskets and seals ensures proper function, and a longer lifespan.

A visual inspection of exposed equipment can help detect these leaks. Shut off the pump and examine fittings for water puddles or damp spots. Make sure to look at the pressure side of fittings as well as the suction side. Also, feel for loose or spent O-rings.

If you suspect a leak in your underground plumbing, contact a professional for assistance. These types of leaks are difficult to locate without specialized equipment. However, if the leak is at an inlet, skimmer, or underwater light, it can be found with the help of a dye test. This helps to pinpoint the location of the leak so that it can be repaired quickly.

Light Leaks

While rare, light niche leaks can occur due to the lack of a gasket seal. These leaks are more noticeable in vinyl pools since they sit in the water and are more exposed to the elements. This type of leak often causes puddling around the back of the niche.

A professional uses a visual inspection and a water test to identify potential problem areas. Water levels are measured at night and in the morning to determine significant overnight loss. This can reveal a leak in the underground plumbing or structural issues such as cracked pool shells, faulty hydrostatic valves, and loose fittings.

The technician may plug the suction and return lines to see if the leak is in the plumbing or in the shell. A pressure test is also performed to isolate the plumbing and check for drops in PSI. Injection of dye near fittings and potential leak points can confirm the location of the leak.

Gelcoat Leaks

During pool use, gelcoat can become worn down and develop cracks that water seeps through. This can be a major issue, but it’s one that can often be repaired by professional technicians. Identifying and repairing gelcoat leaks before they cause too much damage is crucial to ensuring that your swimming pool continues to function properly.

Observing changes in water levels can help you recognize the signs of a pool leak. The addition of extra water to your pool suggests evaporation has increased, while changes in the water chemistry may indicate that untreated water is entering the system through a leak.

If water loss continues despite plugging the skimmer, return lines, vacuum line, cleaner fittings, and main drain, it’s possible that the leak is coming from underground plumbing. A professional pool technician can use electronic testing, hearing equipment, and dye tests to locate and repair these leaks. These methods are non-invasive and avoid the need to dig up your backyard.