Is your pool losing water, but you’re not sure why? A pool leak can be frustrating, especially when the source isn’t obvious.
At LeakXperts, we specialize in pool leak detection and have seen it all while helping pool owners across Palm Beach County and the surrounding Florida region. From tiny cracks to major problems, leaks can quickly lead to wasted water and costly repairs. Knowing the common signs of a leak can save you time and stress.
Take one of our clients in Boca Raton. They noticed their pool’s water level was dropping faster than usual but couldn’t figure out why. After a thorough inspection, we found a small crack in the pool shell, barely visible but enough to cause significant water loss. Once we fixed it, their pool was back to normal.
Structural Leaks
One of the most common types of pool leaks we encounter at LeakXperts is structural leaks. These typically occur in the pool’s shell, which can be made of concrete, fiberglass, or vinyl. Over time, the surface can crack due to settling, shifting soil, or simply the natural aging process. These cracks often lead to water seeping out, and because the water loss is gradual, it can be difficult to spot.
A family in Delray Beach noticed their pool water levels were dropping significantly, but they couldn’t find any visible signs of a leak. After a detailed inspection, we found several small cracks in the pool shell that were barely noticeable to the naked eye but were slowly leaking water. Once repaired, the family saw a dramatic decrease in water loss.
Repairing structural leaks requires precision and the right tools. For concrete pools, we typically use epoxy or polymer-based sealants to fill in the cracks. These materials bond well with concrete and prevent further leakage.
According to Florida pool maintenance experts, regular pool inspections can help spot these cracks before they become a major issue. While structural repairs can sometimes be costly, catching leaks early can save you from bigger repairs down the road. It’s important to address structural leaks as soon as possible to prevent water damage to surrounding areas and avoid increasing your water bills.
Plumbing Leaks
Plumbing leaks can occur when the pipes carrying water to and from your pool develop cracks, breaks, or corrosion. These leaks can be difficult to detect because they are often hidden underground or behind walls, and the water may not always show on the surface. Signs of plumbing leaks include:
- Unexplained water loss
- An increase in your water bill
- Strange noises coming from the pool’s plumbing system
A homeowner in West Palm Beach noticed a consistent drop in their pool’s water level. After a thorough inspection, we discovered a leaking pipe beneath the pool deck, which had been slowly losing water over time. The repair involved isolating the damaged pipe and replacing it without digging up the entire deck, saving the homeowner both time and money.
Plumbing leaks require specialized equipment for detection. At LeakXperts, we use advanced pressure testing and electronic leak detection methods to pinpoint plumbing issues without the need to dig up your yard or damage your pool deck.
How to Repair Plumbing Leaks
- The first step in repairing a plumbing leak is conducting a pressure test to accurately locate the leak. This allows technicians to pinpoint the problem without digging up large sections of the pool area.
- If a pipe is cracked or broken, the technician will replace the affected section. Depending on the material (PVC, copper, etc.), the technician will cut out the damaged pipe and replace it with a new section. For concrete pools, this may require digging and rerouting the plumbing.
- In some cases, technicians may temporarily seal leaks using a waterproof epoxy or sealant. This method helps prevent further water loss until they can make a more permanent fix.
- For leaks in hard-to-reach areas, professionals may need to dig trenches or excavate the pool deck to expose the pipes and make the necessary repairs. While this is more invasive, it’s necessary for leaks deep underground or within walls.
- Once the repair is made, technicians will pressure-test the system again to ensure the leak has been fully fixed and that no other issues remain.
Skimmer Leaks
The skimmer is responsible for collecting debris from the surface of your pool and sending it to the filtration system. Over time, the skimmer box or lid can develop cracks or become loose, leading to water leaking out of the pool. Skimmer leaks can often go unnoticed because the water loss tends to be subtle, but over time, it can add up.
A resort owner at Fort Lauderdale reached out when they noticed their pool wasn’t holding water overnight, but they couldn’t find any noticeable cracks in the pool’s shell. After a thorough inspection, we discovered that the skimmer box had developed a small, persistent leak, which was gradually draining the water. Once repaired, the resort’s pool was able to hold the water level consistently.
Return Line Leaks
Return line leaks occur when the pipes that send water back into the pool from the filter and pump system become damaged or cracked. These leaks can happen underground or in areas that are difficult to access, and they often lead to water loss that is hard to trace. Common causes of return line leaks include shifts in the pool’s foundation or wear and tear from freezing temperatures.
A homeowner reported that their pool was losing water, but they couldn’t find any visible cracks in the structure. After performing a pressure test, we found that the return line pipes running beneath the pool deck were cracked and leaking. By repairing the return lines, we stopped the water loss, and the homeowner was able to enjoy their pool again without constant refilling.
If you notice that your pool is losing water but the leak isn’t visible, it’s important to inspect the return lines. Pressure testing is the most effective way to find leaks in these lines without needing to dig up the pool’s plumbing system.
If you’re building or renovating a pool, MasterTouch Living Outdoor specializes in creating strong, durable pools designed to last, making them a great partner in ensuring the integrity of your outdoor space.
Why Choose LeakXperts for Pool Repair and Detection?
- With years of experience in pool leak detection and repair, LeakXperts has the expertise to handle all types of pool leaks efficiently.
We successfully repaired a structural crack in a commercial pool, preventing significant water loss and saving the owner thousands in potential repairs.
- We use cutting-edge equipment like pressure testing and electronic leak detection to pinpoint leaks without unnecessary digging or damage to your pool area.
A client with a large residential pool had no visible leaks, but our electronic leak detection system identified an underground pipe leak—something impossible to find without this advanced technology.
- Our techniques allow us to detect leaks without disrupting your pool’s structure or yard, saving you time, money, and hassle.
After conducting a pressure test on a client’s pool, we located a hidden plumbing leak under the deck without digging up their landscaping or pool area.
- We pride ourselves on delivering fast, effective repairs, minimizing downtime and helping you avoid costly water loss.
After identifying a return line leak, we quickly repaired the affected pipe, restored the pool’s water levels, and prevented further damage within just a few hours.
Understanding the most common types of pool leaks helps you spot problems early, saving you time and money on repairs.
Whether it’s a structural crack, plumbing issue, or problem with your pool’s equipment, LeakXperts has the expertise and tools to detect and fix leaks efficiently. We recommend regular inspections and maintenance to prevent leaks from turning into costly issues in the future.
If you notice water loss or suspect a leak in your pool, don’t wait, call us today at (561) 739-1037 for a professional inspection and expert repair. With our years of experience and cutting-edge technology, we’ll keep your pool in perfect condition all year long.
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