The Energy-Saving Power of Variable Speed Pumps and Automation

That feeling of excitement when you look out at your pool can quickly turn to dread when you notice the water level dropping faster than normal. If you are constantly topping off the pool, you likely have a leak. Pool leaks are common, but if ignored, they can lead to skyrocketing water bills, chemical waste, and even structural damage to your pool shell and deck.

Here is your step-by-step guide to confirming a leak, identifying its type, and knowing when to call the professionals.

Step 1: Confirming the Loss (The Bucket Test)

First, you must rule out simple evaporation. A certain amount of water loss is normal, especially in hot, dry, or windy conditions.

How to Perform the Bucket Test:

1.  Set Up: Place a bucket filled with pool water on a step of the pool. The bucket should be submerged enough so the water level inside the bucket is equal to the water level outside the bucket. 2.  Mark Levels: Use a marker or tape to mark the water level inside the bucket and the water level outside the bucket (on the pool wall). 3.  Wait: Let the bucket sit for 24 hours. 4.  Compare: After 24 hours, measure the difference in water loss on the pool wall versus the water loss inside the bucket.

The Conclusion: If the pool water level has dropped significantly more than the water level inside the bucket, you have confirmed a leak in the structure or plumbing. If the loss is equal, it’s just normal evaporation.

Step 2: Determining Where the Leak Is Occurring

The next step is to pinpoint what is leaking: the plumbing, the structure, or the equipment.

A. Is the Leak in the Equipment or Plumbing?

Leaks often occur when the equipment is running because the pump pressurizes the plumbing lines.

1.  Test 1 (Pump Running): Mark the water level and let the pump run for 24 hours. 2.  Test 2 (Pump Off): Mark the water level and turn the pump and filter completely off for 24 hours.

If the water loss is much greater when the pump is running, the leak is likely in the pressurized return lines, seals around the pump, or the heater.

B. Is the Leak in the Structure or Shell?

If the loss is consistent whether the pump is on or off, the leak is likely in the pool structure itself (the shell, skimmer, or fittings).

1.  Observe the Stop Point: Allow the water level to drop until it stops. The height at which the water stabilizes often indicates the general area of the leak:     * Stops at Skimmer Mouth: The leak is likely in the skimmer housing or the plumbing leading directly from the skimmer.     * Stops halfway down the wall: The leak is likely a crack in the wall, a hydrostatic plug, or a broken return jet or light fixture.

Step 3: When to Call the Professionals

While homeowners can confirm a leak, locating and repairing leaks in plumbing lines or deep within the pool structure requires specialized equipment and expertise to avoid unnecessary digging or costly misdiagnoses.

If you have confirmed a leak via the bucket test, or if your pool loses more than 2 inches of water per week, it’s time to call in the experts.

Our Expertise: [Your Company Name] specializes in non-destructive pool leak detection. We use advanced electronic listening devices, specialized dye testing, and pressurized testing methods (like hydrostatic testing) to accurately locate the leak source, whether it’s:

• A deep crack in the concrete or plaster shell.
• A break in the buried PVC return or suction lines.
• A faulty seal around a light niche, skimmer, or main drain.

Step 4: Leak Mending and Prevention

Once the leak is located, the repair must be done quickly and correctly to protect your pool’s longevity.

[Your Company Name] provides comprehensive leak mending services. We handle everything from minor fixes to major structural repairs:

• Plumbing Repairs: We utilize minimal excavation techniques (when necessary) and professional-grade sealing materials to repair broken underground lines.
• Structural Mending: We repair cracks using specialized, permanent epoxy and injection techniques designed to stabilize the concrete or shell and prevent future movement.
• Seal Replacement: We can replace failing gaskets and seals around lights and fittings, which are often the culprit in older pools.

Don’t let a disappearing water level drain your finances and damage your pool. Early detection and professional mending are the keys to keeping your oasis healthy and enjoyable. Contact [Your Company Name] today to schedule your precise leak detection and repair service.