Water leaks in your in-ground pool are generally a bad sign. Since they can cause significant damage to your liner by moving or lifting it and weaken the pool structure over time, it is important to find and correct them quickly.
Detecting a water leak at the start of the season
At the start of the season, even before starting the pool, observe the water level. With snowfall and melting, the basin tends to fill up. Unless you have had an abnormally low winter in snow, the pool will be full (or almost)! If it is not, this should be a warning sign!
Detecting a leak during swimming season
One of the most obvious signs of a leak during swimming season is the observation that the water level is dropping at an abnormal rate. Of course, the level will naturally drop with evaporation. When the temperature difference is very high between the air and the water in the pool, evaporation will be greater and could reduce the level by a few centimeters!
How do you know if it’s a leak or evaporation?
To validate that the loss is not due to evaporation, place a container of water next to the pool, marking the water level. Also mark the water level in your pool. After a few hours, compare! If the water in the pool seems to have gone down further than that in your container, it is very likely that a leak is the cause.
What to do if you suspect a water leak?
If you suspect a water leak, you must act immediately! Start by observing all the visible joints and connections in your system and make sure that no leaks are coming from these components.
If you can’t find it, your pool specialist can help you identify where the leak is coming from and repair it as quickly as possible.
Leak problems can be caused by breakage or wear in buried pipes or even occur at the pool level (pool liner, drain, steps, lighting).
Leaks in buried pipes can be detected using specialized devices. Leaks from the pool may require more in-depth research, for example observing the level at which the water stabilizes or using coloring products in suspected areas.
If the problem is with the liner and it is not too old, it is possible to empty the pool and lift it to observe it underneath. This technique makes it easier to find the leak and, if possible, repair it!
In any case, if you have any doubt about the source of the leak or how to repair it, avoid headaches by calling professionals!