hidden pool leaks: how to detect and fix them before they cost you

Hidden Pool Leaks: How to Detect and Fix Them Before They Cost You

Nothing drains the joy from owning a pool faster than a hidden leak. While a splash over the edge or some evaporation on a sunny Miami day is normal, losing water from a leak can mean big trouble for your pool—and your wallet. The sooner you find and fix a hidden leak, the less damage and expense you’ll face down the road.

Common Signs Your Pool Might Be Leaking

Think your pool might be leaking? Look for these telltale signs:

• Water Level Drops Faster Than Usual: Pools naturally lose water from evaporation, but if you’re refilling more than two inches a week, it’s time to investigate.
• Higher Water Bills: A leak forces you to add water constantly, increasing utility costs.
• Wet Spots or Mushy Ground: Soggy areas near your pool, decking, or landscaping can mean underground leaks.
• Air Bubbles in Return Jets: Air sucked into the system often indicates a suction-side leak.
• Cracks in Pool Structure: Small cracks can widen over time and become leak sources.
• Unbalanced Chemical Levels: Constantly low chlorine or other chemicals might mean you’re losing treated water.

How to Perform the Bucket Test

The bucket test is a simple way to check if water loss is due to evaporation or a potential leak. Here’s how to do it:

1. Bring your pool water to its normal level.
2. Fill a clean bucket with pool water, leaving about one inch of space at the top.
3. Place the bucket on the pool’s top step or swim-out bench so it’s partially submerged but doesn’t float away.
4. Mark the water level inside the bucket with a piece of tape or waterproof marker.
5. Mark the pool water level outside the bucket on the pool wall or tile.
6. Run your pool normally, but avoid heavy splashing or backwashing during the test period.
7. After 24 hours, compare the water loss inside the bucket to the water loss in the pool:
   • If both levels dropped the same amount, your water loss is likely from evaporation.
   • If the pool level dropped significantly more than the bucket, you probably have a leak.

Tip: Repeat the test with the pool pump off for more accurate results. This can help identify whether the leak is in the plumbing or the pool structure itself.

Common Sources of Pool Leaks

Leaks can happen in many parts of a pool system. Here’s where to look:

• Skimmer Leaks: Cracks around the skimmer throat or where the skimmer meets the pool shell are common leak points.
• Plumbing Leaks: Underground pipes can crack or separate due to shifting soil, tree roots, or aging materials.
• Light Niches: The conduit that runs electrical wires to underwater lights can develop leaks over time.
• Pool Shell Cracks: Hairline cracks in concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl can widen and start leaking.
• Equipment Pad: Pumps, filters, heaters, and valves can all develop leaks, visible as puddles or constant dampness.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Leak

Even a small pool leak can cause big problems over time, including:

• Soil erosion around the pool, leading to structural damage or settling.
• Damage to decking, tile, or coping due to shifting ground or water pressure changes.
• Higher chemical and water costs as you constantly refill and rebalance your pool.
• Increased utility bills if your autofill system runs constantly to replace lost water.

DIY vs. Professional Leak Detection

It’s smart to check for simple causes yourself, but many leaks require specialized equipment to pinpoint. Here’s what you can safely do yourself:

• Perform the bucket test.
• Visually inspect around skimmers, returns, and tiles for cracks.
• Check equipment pad for obvious leaks or dripping pipes.
• Listen for hissing or gurgling sounds from plumbing lines when the pump is running.

But if you still can’t locate the source—or suspect an underground leak—it’s time to call in professionals like Sparkling Pools. We use advanced tools such as:

• Electronic listening devices to detect water movement underground.
• Dye testing around suspected cracks or fittings.
• Pressure testing plumbing lines to confirm leaks.

How Sparkling Pools Can Help

At Sparkling Pools, we understand how frustrating a hidden pool leak can be. Our team specializes in precise leak detection and repairs, saving you money and protecting your investment. Don’t wait until a small leak becomes a big headache—contact us today for a professional inspection.

Conclusion

Pool leaks aren’t always obvious, but catching them early can save thousands of dollars and prevent serious damage. Keep an eye out for the signs, perform simple tests like the bucket test, and don’t hesitate to call Sparkling Pools if you suspect trouble. A sparkling pool should be worry-free—and we’re here to help keep it that way!