Keeping an in-ground pool leak-free requires regular maintenance. Even if you follow a strict maintenance schedule, small leaks can creep up on you undetected. A small leak in your pool could indicate a more significant issue with the foundation or walls of the pool. While leaks are almost always caused by human error or negligence, some common signs indicate you might have a leak: –
1. Your Pool Is Taking Longer to Fill
Faster-than-normal water loss is a significant indicator of a pool leak but can also be a symptom of a faulty pool pump. If you are experiencing a slower than usual fill rate, inspect your pump to ensure it is in good working order. This can be done by visually inspecting the pump and its hoses for signs of damage or wear. If your pump is working fine, a leak is likely a culprit. Pool leaks can happen in many areas. They can be as minor as a tiny crack in the skimmer or as significant as a hole punched through the main drain line. If you are experiencing a slower-than-average water loss, you will most likely have a leak.
2. The Water Level Drops Gradually
When a leak is present in your pool, the water levels will gradually drop as the water is lost through the leak. This type of leak is often hard to detect, as the water loss occurs very slowly, often for months, with most homeowners failing to notice the gradual water loss. One of the telltale signs of this type of leak is the presence of standing water on the ground surrounding your pool. This can be especially obvious after rain. If the water level around your pool appears to be dropping, and you can’t find the cause, then there is a good chance that you have a leak.
3. Pool Equipment Malfunctions
The presence of a pool leak can damage your pool equipment. This is especially true for your pump, as it is one of the most essential components of an in-ground pool. A leak in your pool could cause your pump to overheat and eventually break down, causing it to need to be repaired. Another sign of a leak is a decrease in your pool’s filtration efficiency. It is best to call a professional pool equipment repair service to come out and take a look if you do notice any leaks.
4. Vinyl Liner Deterioration
The most visible signs of a pool leak are the visible signs of damage to your vinyl liner. If your pool has a leak, there is a good chance that it will eventually cause damage to the liner. This can happen in two ways: your liner could begin to sag or be punctured by shrapnel from surrounding rocks or debris. If your liner appears to be sagging, this can indicate a leak in your pool’s wall. Sagging liners can eventually lead to tears in the liner. A puncture in the liner can also happen due to a leak, as rocks and other debris can be thrown up by the water flow and cause damage to the liner.
5. Discolored Walls or Floors
If you have an in-ground pool and notice that your walls or floors are discolored, this is a telltale sign that you have a leak. The leak source might be in the drain or the pipe that drains the pool. It can also be in the liner or the concrete around the pool. If you see any cracks in the concrete, these are likely the source of the leak.
Conclusion
If you suspect that you have a leak, it’s essential to find the source of the leak as soon as possible before it causes severe damage to your pool, pump, or surrounding property. If you suspect that you have a leak, the first thing you should do is check your water level. If it seems to be dropping, there is a good chance that you have a leak. Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, you can take steps to repair it.
