To get pool leak detection right, you need to make a visual inspection, bucket test, dye test, check the pool equipment, skimmer, and lights, and call for professional help. After you find it, fix it by patching cracks, repairing plumbing, using a leak sealer, and other tips.
Detecting pool leaks can save your home from severe water damage and expensive repairs. So, knowing precisely how to find and solve a pool leak is the best thing you can do! Start reading this guide and find out the detailed steps involved.
How To Find A Leak In A Pool In 8 Steps!
Before you close your pool for the winter, you should check for leaks. You will be able to find a leak in your pool with the steps detailed below. From a simple visual inspection to more complex inground pool leak detection strategies, read and discover the best method for you.
- Check The Water Level: If you are losing more than 1/4 inch of water per day, you likely have a leak.
- Inspect The Pool: Walk around the pool and look for wet areas around the pool deck, as these could indicate a leak in the plumbing or pool shell.
- Examine The Surface: Check for cracks, tears, or separations in the vinyl liner, plaster, or fiberglass.
- Do A Bucket Test: Place a bucket on the pool step and fill it with water, matching the water level in the pool. Mark the water level inside the bucket and the pool water level on the outside. After 24 hours, compare the water levels. When the pool water level has dropped more than the bucket, it means there is a leak.
- Do A Dye Test: Make sure the pool water is still. Apply the dye near suspected areas like cracks, fittings, or seams. Watch if the dye is drawn into a crack or opening, which indicates the location of the leak.
- Inspect The Plumbing: Look for leaks in the pump, filter, heater, and pipes. Leaks are common around fittings and connections.
- Check The Skimmer And Lights: Leaks can occur around the skimmer where it attaches to the pool wall. Inspect for cracks or gaps. Water can leak around the light housing. If the water level stops dropping just below the lights, this might be the problem area.
- Call Professional Help: If you cannot find the leak, it may be necessary to contact a pool leak detection professional who can use specialized equipment to locate the leak accurately.
Unfortunately, one of the cons of swimming pools is the maintenance. Once you have found the leak in your pool, it is time to deal with it before it evolves to something more serous and hard to repair. Continue reading to discover how to repair a pool leak.
How To Fix A Pool Leak? 5 Essential Tips
Pool leak repair involves patching small cracks and tears, fixing leaks around fittings, repairing pool plumbing, using pool leak sealer, calling for professional help for major damage, and monitoring water levels. Read the details below!
1. Patch Small Cracks
For the small cracks in your pool, you should use a vinyl patch kit, which usually includes a piece of vinyl and adhesive. Cut the patch to size, apply adhesive, and press it firmly over the tear. Some kits allow for underwater application, making the process even easier.
2. Fix Leaks Around Fittings
Apply pool putty around the area where the skimmer meets the pool wall. Push the putty into any gaps and smooth it out. Leaks around these fittings can often be sealed with silicone or waterproof sealant. Turn off the pool pump, remove the fitting, apply sealant, and reattach.
3. Repair Leaky Pool Plumbing
If you find a leak in the plumbing, you may need to cut out the damaged section and replace it with new piping or fittings. For a proper pool plumbing repair, use PVC glue and primer for a strong bond. For small leaks in accessible pipes, use pipe repair tape or a clamp until a more permanent fix can be made.
4. Use A Pool Leak Sealer
If the leak is minor and you can't find its exact location, consider using a liquid pool leak sealer. Pour the sealer into the skimmer or directly into the pool, and it will circulate through the system, sealing small leaks in the pool or plumbing.
5. Call Professional Help For Major Leaks
For significant leaks, such as large cracks in the pool structure or plumbing issues you do not feel comfortable solving, it is best to hire a professional. They will properly assess and repair the damage to avoid further complications!
The best swimming pool pros are here! Do not hesitate to call them now to help you in pool leak detection and solution.
