How do I know if my pool is leaking or if it is just evaporation?
Sign of a pool leak:
- If your pool water level is dropping faster than normal or if you have to add more than 1” of water per week (1 hour of garden hose running) then you probably have a leak. Splashing water usually accounts of very little water loss. Having a warm pool without a solar bubble blanket to keep the heat in and cold nights usually result in substantial water evaporation.
- Soft spots in landscaping or areas that don’t seem to dry are usually an indicator of a pool leak.
- Cracked and heaved concrete could mean a sign of a long term leak or one that has happened over winter
- Ignoring these signs of water loss for any period of time, especially over winter can result in: cracked pipes, softened and rough pool base, cracked concrete, and pushed in pool walls. (caving of pool)
If you are noticing any of these symptoms or wake up and notice that your pool has dropped a few inches over night then there is definitely a leak in your pool. You are now sure that the leak is not normal water loss.
So where do you start?
Before you call a professional to have a look at your pool you should perform the pump test. This will determine if the water is leaking from your pool liner or pool lines. This important information will help the professional with a better place to start and also save you money by spending less time figuring out where the leak is.