A pool is supposed to be fun, but a leak can cause stress and unexpected bills. Pool leaks are more common than you think, especially in areas with temperature changes or frequent storms like the south. Knowing the early signs of a pool leak can save you from costly repairs. Whether your pool is losing water to evaporation or something more serious, you must know what to look for.
In this article, we’ll cover the most common signs of a pool leak so you can act quickly.
Water Loss
One of the most apparent signs of a pool leak is water loss. Some water loss due to evaporation is average, especially in hot, sunny areas. But if the water level in your pool is dropping more than a quarter of an inch a day, it may be a leak.
You can do the bucket test to determine if it’s normal evaporation or a leak. Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on one of the pool steps. Mark the water level inside the bucket and on the pool edge. After 24 hours, compare the two water levels. If the pool water has dropped more than the bucket water, it’s probably a leak.
Wet Spots Around the Pool
Another sign of a potential pool leak is wet spots around your pool area. While some wetness from splashing is normal, if you notice the damp or soggy ground around the pool structure or deck, it could be a sign of water leaking out.
This is more common with in-ground pools. Water leaking from the pool can seep into the ground and create muddy patches. Over time, these wet spots can turn into more significant problems like deck cracks or sinking ground, which can affect the structural integrity of your pool.
Higher Water Bills
If your pool leaks, you’ll notice an increase in your water bill. Pools are designed to hold water at a certain level with only minor adjustments for evaporation. When a leak occurs, your pool loses water faster, and you’ll need to add more water more often.
If you’re constantly adding water to your pool and your water bill is high, it’s time to dig deeper. Notice how often you add water to your pool; anything more than the occasional top-off could be a leak.
Chemical Imbalance
Pool chemicals are crucial for clean and safe swimming water. However, a pool leak can disrupt the balance of these chemicals. If you’re constantly adding chemicals but can’t maintain the proper pH, chlorine, or alkalinity levels, a leak could dilute the pool water faster than you can treat.
When a leak occurs, the water escaping takes the chemicals with it, so you’ll need to adjust the balance more often than usual. If chemical balance becomes a constant issue, it’s worth checking for leaks.
Cracks in the Pool Shell or Tile
Visible cracks in the pool shell or surrounding tiles can also indicate a leak. Over time, even small cracks in the surface of your pool can let water escape. These cracks can develop from age, ground movement, or poor construction but can get worse if not addressed soon.
Not all cracks mean a leak, but they’re warning signs. If you notice cracks, have a pool professional inspect the area to see if they contribute to water loss.
Air Bubbles in the Pump System
Air bubbles in your pool pump or filtration system often indicate that air is being pulled into the system somehow, probably due to a leak. If you see bubbles coming from the return jets or in the pump basket, it’s perhaps a leak in the pump’s suction side, which draws air into the system with the water.
A pump leak may not be as significant as water loss, but it can be an efficiency issue in your pool system and a sign of a bigger problem. Address it early and save yourself from more expensive repairs later.
Water Stains or Damage to Pool Equipment
Water stains on the exterior of your pool or equipment can be a sign of a leak. For example, if your pool heater, pump, or filter system has water stains, it could mean water is leaking inside.
Leaky equipment may not always cause visible water level drops but can still cause water circulation and treatment inefficiencies. Untreated water damage to pool equipment can lead to costly repairs or replacements later.
Algae Growth Despite Chemical Treatments
If you notice unusual algae growth in your pool despite proper chemical maintenance, it’s a sign of a leak. When water escapes through a leak, the chemicals used to keep your pool clean and algae-free are diluted. As a result, algae growth becomes more challenging to control, and you’ll clean the pool more often than usual.
If you’ve been monitoring your chemical balance but still see algae blooms, it’s time to investigate whether a leak is the culprit.
Structural Shifting or Settling
In extreme cases, a pool leak can cause the ground around the pool to shift or settle. Water seeping into the soil around your pool can destabilize the area and cause structural problems. You may see cracks in your pool deck or the ground around your pool start to sink.
If not addressed, this damage can be costly to repair and may compromise the pool structure. Early detection and repair of a pool leak can prevent this damage.
Pool Equipment Running Constantly
If your pool pump or filtration system is always running or the automatic fill is always on, it’s a sign that water is escaping faster than usual. When there’s a leak, your pool system has to work harder to compensate for the lost water.
If your pump or fill system is working overti,me have your pool inspected for leaks. Addressing the problem early will reduce wear and tear on your equipment and energy and water bills.
Catching Pool Leaks Early Saves Time & Money
Pool leaks are more than just a minor annoyance—they can lead to expensive repairs and damage to your pool and surrounding area. By watching for unusual water loss, wet spots, cracks, or issues with your pool equipment, you can catch leaks early and prevent more extensive damage.
If you think your pool has a leak, call a pool professional to inspect it. Many leaks can be fixed if caught early, saving you time, money, and hassle later on. Do an online search for pool leak detection services near you and choose a provider with a strong reputation.
Your pool is an investment in relaxation and fun. Maintaining it and addressing leaks as soon as they occur will make it part of your home for years.
