It is expected that your water level will vary from day to day. Florida's heat, humidity, and wind can play a vast role in the amount of evaporation that can occur. However, if your pool or spa is losing more than 1/4 inch of water per day or 2 inches a week, you may have a leak.
Here are signs you have a pool leak:
- Pool loses more water than regular evaporation (about 1/4 inch)
- Pool has air in the system
- Pool equipment loses prime
- Cracks are visible and can be seen from the water's edge
- Pool deck is sinking or lifting
- There are soggy spots around the pool
- You add water more than once a week
During the hottest months of summer, your pool may seem to lose water faster than usual. Performing the bucket test will help determine if the higher water loss rate is due to a possible leak or just evaporation.
Use the following steps to determine if your pool or spa is leaking:
- Bring pool water to the normal operating level.
- Fill a 5-gallon bucket with pool water about 3-4 inches from the top.
- Place the bucket on step of the pool without submerging it.
- With a pencil, marker, or electrical tape, mark the level of the water on the inside of the bucket.
- Shut the pump off and mark the pool or spa water level outside the bucket.
- Resume regular pump operation. Make sure that the auto-fill valve is off during the test.
- After 24 hours, compare the levels. If the pool water (outside mark) goes down more than the inside water level (inside mark), there may be a leak.
- If it rains, repeat test when it stops raining. The test is not valid after 24 hours. - Hurricane Prep: Lower pool water level, do not put furniture in the pool.
If left untreated, a small crack can turn into a significant repair.
Give us a call if you suspect you have a swimming pool or spa leak at (352) 728-2093 or use our online contact form and send us a message and one of United Pools customer service reps will get back to you ASAP.
Prior to our a Pool Leak Detection Diagnosis, make sure your pool is completely clean. It is easy to miss leaks when they are covered in dirt and grime. Make sure your pool is vacuumed or brushed thoroughly before your leak detection appointment.
Make sure the water is clean and clear. It's almost impossible to test for leaks in a green pool.