How to Tell If Your Pool Has a Leak

Worried your pool is losing water faster than usual? A pool leak can sneak up on any pool owner, turning your backyard retreat into a source of stress, high water bills, and costly repairs. In Corpus Christi, TX, our team at PoolRX LLC specializes in pool leak detection using advanced Leaktronics technology. This article will show you the most common signs of a pool leak, how to confirm if your pool is leaking, and when to call the professionals—so you can protect your pool and enjoy it all season long.

Common Signs of a Pool Leak

Spotting a pool leak early can save you time, money, and hassle. Look for these sure signs of a leak:

• The water level in your pool drops by more than 1/4 to 1/2 inch per day.
• You notice standing water near the pool or wet spots around the pool deck.
• Your water bills spike without explanation.
• You’re adding water to your pool more often than usual.
• The pool is losing water even when the pump is off.
• Algae blooms or cloudy water occur more frequently due to water loss and chemical imbalance.
• Cracks appear in the pool wall, pool liner, or pool deck.
• Air bubbles are visible in the pool pump or return lines.

If you notice any of these issues, your pool may be leaking.

Is It Evaporation or a Leak?

Before you panic, remember that pools naturally lose water to evaporation—especially in Corpus Christi’s warm, humid climate. But excessive water loss is a red flag. To tell the difference, perform a simple bucket test:

• Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on the second step of your pool.
• Mark the water level inside the bucket and on the pool wall.
• Wait 24–48 hours.
• If the pool water level drops more than the water level in the bucket, your pool is likely leaking.

How to Check for Leaks Around the Pool

Leaks can occur in many places around the pool. Inspect these common areas:

• The pool liner, especially seams and corners in vinyl liner pools.
• Around the skimmer, returns, lights, and pool steps.
• The pool deck and coping for cracks or shifting.
• Pool equipment, including the pump, filter, and connections.
• Plumbing lines and fittings for wet spots or corrosion.

Cracks, soft spots, or visible damage in these areas can indicate a leak.

Using Dye to Find a Leak

A dye test is a simple way to confirm the source of a leak:

• With the pool pump off and water still, squirt a small amount of leak detection dye or food coloring near the suspected area.
• If there’s a leak, the dye will be drawn into the crack or hole.
• Repeat the process around seams, fittings, and any visible damage.

This method works best when you’re very close to the leak, so patience is key.

Signs of a Leak in a Vinyl Liner Pool

Vinyl liner pools are especially prone to small tears and punctures. Look for:

• Wrinkles, bulges, or soft spots in the liner.
• Discoloration or areas where the liner appears thin.
• Water loss that stops at a certain level, indicating a leak at that height.
• Visible holes or tears, especially near fittings and corners.

If you find any of these, you may have a liner leak that needs prompt repair.

Pool Equipment and Plumbing Leaks

Leaks in pool equipment and plumbing can be harder to spot. Check for:

• Drips or puddles under the pool pump, filter, or heater.
• Air bubbles in the pump basket or return jets.
• Wet soil or grass near underground plumbing lines.
• Loss of prime in the pool pump.

Equipment leaks can waste hundreds of gallons of water and cause damage if left unchecked.

When to Call a Professional for Leak Detection

If you’ve tried the bucket and dye tests, inspected the pool, and still can’t find the source of the leak, it’s time to call PoolRX LLC. Our certified technicians use Leaktronics’ advanced leak detection equipment to pinpoint leaks quickly and accurately—without unnecessary digging or draining. We handle leaks in all types of pools, including vinyl liner, gunite, and concrete pools.

Preventing Pool Leaks in the Future

Regular pool maintenance is the best way to prevent leaks:

• Inspect your pool and equipment regularly for signs of wear or damage.
• Maintain proper chemical balance to protect your pool structure and liner.
• Address any cracks, soft spots, or equipment issues promptly.
• Schedule annual pool leak detection services with PoolRX LLC for peace of mind.

Preventative care keeps your pool in top shape and helps avoid costly repairs.

Key Takeaways: How to Tell If Your Pool Has a Leak

• Watch for rapid water loss, wet spots, high water bills, and visible damage.
• Use the bucket test to distinguish between evaporation and a leak.
• Inspect the liner, equipment, and fittings for cracks, holes, or soft spots.
• Try a dye test to pinpoint leaks in hard-to-see areas.
• Call PoolRX LLC for professional leak detection with Leaktronics equipment if you can’t find the leak yourself.
• Prompt leak repair prevents structural damage, high bills, and keeps your pool safe and fun.

If you suspect your pool is leaking in Corpus Christi, TX, don’t wait—contact PoolRX LLC for expert pool leak detection and repair. Enjoy a worry-free swimming season with a pool that’s watertight and ready for fun!