The 5 Most Common Places Your Swimming Pool is Likely to Leak

As a pool owner, your backyard is most likely a source of joy and relaxation. But when water levels start dropping faster than usual, that joy can quickly turn to frustration. Understanding where leaks commonly occur is the first step in maintaining your pool’s health and your peace of mind. Let’s dive into the world of pool leak detection and explore the five most likely culprits behind your disappearing water.

Understanding Pool Leaks

Before we jump in, let’s get clear on what we mean by a pool leak. It’s not just about losing water. All pools naturally lose some water to evaporation, especially in states with hotter climates, like Arizona. A leak is when water escapes from your pool’s system through something like a crack, hole, or faulty seal. Ignoring these leaks can lead to higher water bills, damage to your pool’s structure and equipment, and even issues with your home’s foundation.

So how do you know if you’ve got a leak? Keep an eye out for these common signs:

• Water level dropping more than 1/4 inch per day
• Constantly running pump or filter
• Algae growth or difficulty keeping chemicals balanced
• Wet spots in your yard
• Cracks in the pool deck

Now, let’s explore the top five places where your pool is most likely to spring a leak.

• Skimmer

Your pool’s skimmer might seem innocent enough, but it’s often the first place to check when you suspect a leak. The skimmer is that opening at the water’s surface that sucks in debris to keep your pool clean. Because it’s constantly exposed to water movement and changing water levels, the seal around the skimmer can wear out over time.

To check for a skimmer leak, look for cracks in the plastic, separation between the skimmer and the pool wall, or water seeping behind the skimmer when the pump is running. A simple dye test near the skimmer can also reveal if water is being pulled out where it shouldn’t be.

• Pool Light 

Pool lights add a magical ambiance to night swims, but they can also be a source of leaks. The conduit that houses the wiring for your pool light is supposed to be watertight, but age, ground shifts, or poor installation can compromise this seal.

If you notice water in your light fixture or the area around your lights seems damp when the rest of the pool deck is dry, you might have a light leak on your hands. This is definitely a job for leak detection professionals, as it involves both water and electricity.

• The Return of the Leaky Jets

Return jets are responsible for circulating filtered water back into your pool. These fittings can develop leaks due to loose connections, cracked casings, or worn-out gaskets. A leak here might show up as bubbles in the water when the pump is running or as a wet spot behind the jet.

You can sometimes tighten a loose fitting yourself, but if the problem persists, it’s best to call in a pro. They can replace worn parts and ensure a watertight seal without risking damage to your pool’s plumbing system.

• Cracks in the Pool’s Structure

While less common in newer pools, cracks in the pool shell can lead to significant water loss. These issues often develop slowly over time due to ground settling, extreme temperature changes, or general wear and tear.

Spotting these leaks can be tricky. Look for visible cracks or tiles that seem to be separating from the pool wall. If you suspect a structural leak, it’s time to bring in the experts. They have specialized equipment to pinpoint the exact location of the leak without having to drain your entire pool.

• Hidden Underground Plumbing Leaks

Perhaps the most challenging leaks to detect are those in your pool’s underground plumbing. These pipes carry water to and from your pool pump and filter system. When they develop leaks, it can be hard to spot the problem without specialized equipment.

Signs of an underground plumbing leak include wet spots in your yard (especially when the pump is running), a constantly running pump, or air in the system causing bubbles in your return jets. If you suspect an underground leak, don’t wait to call for help. These leaks can waste a ton of water and potentially sabotage the soil supporting your pool and deck, leading to costly damages.

Keeping Your Pool Leak-Free

Prevention is always better when it comes to pool leaks. Regular inspections of your pool’s visible components can catch problems early. Pay attention to your water level, chemical usage, and any unusual changes in your pool’s behavior.

Proper winterization can prevent damage from temperature changes. And don’t skimp on professional maintenance because a yearly check-up can save you from major headaches down the road.

When to Call the Pros

While some minor leaks might be DIY fixable, most pool leak issues benefit from proper professional attention. If you’ve noticed persistent water loss, it’s time to call in the experts. Professional leak detection services use advanced technology like acoustics and dye testing to pinpoint leaks with minimal disruption to your pool or yard.

Remember, a small leak today can become a big (and expensive!) problem tomorrow. Stay vigilant, act quickly when you suspect a leak, and don’t hesitate to get professional help. Your pool, and your water bill, will thank you for it.