If you own a pool, one of the problems you may encounter is a pool leak. A leaking pool can be a frustrating and costly problem to deal with, especially if it goes unnoticed for a long time. Keep reading to learn the five signs that you have a pool leak in Sacramento, and what you can do about it.
Water Level Drop
One of the most common signs of a pool leak is a drop in water level. While some evaporation is normal, if your pool water level drops more than a quarter of an inch per day, you may have a leak. This is especially true if you’ve had your pool for a while and know how much water loss is normal for your pool. Keep an eye on the water level to see if it drops consistently.
If you’re still unsure if the water level drops you’re seeing are normal or not, try this test:
- Place a large plastic bucket on the second step of your pool, weighing it down with rocks so that it doesn’t float away.
- Add water to the bucket so that the water inside of it is at the same height as the water around the bucket. Mark both water levels on the bucket with a permanent marker.
- Leave the bucket and refrain from using your pool for several days.
- Check the water levels. If the water level outside the bucket has dropped more than the water inside of it, then you have a leak in your pool.
Excessive Chemical Use
If you find yourself having to use more chemicals than usual to keep your pool water balanced, it could be a sign of a leak. When water leaks out, you have to replace it with new water, which can throw off the chemical balance in your pool. This means you may need to use more chemicals to keep the water safe and clean.
Cracks or Loose Tiles
Check your pool’s surface for any cracks or loose tiles. These could be a sign of a pool leak, especially if the cracks or loose tiles are near the edge of the pool or in areas where water is splashing. When water leaks out, it can cause the soil to shift, which can cause damage to your pool’s structure.
Keep in mind that some cracks on the surface of a gunite pool are normal. This happens over time, and is usually just a cosmetic issue. However, if you think a crack you’re seeing might be the source of a leak. Try this simple test: Grab a pair of goggles, a snorkel, and a bottle of red food dye. Swim up close to the crack and put a few drops of dye in the water right beside it. If the food dye seems to be pulled into the crack, then this means it’s causing a leak in your pool. If the dye seems to swirl away, the crack is only a cosmetic, surface-level crack in the gunite.
Wet Spots or Soft Soil
If you notice any wet spots or soft soil around your pool, it could be a sign of a leak. When water leaks out of your pool, it has to go somewhere, and it can seep into the soil around your pool. This can cause the soil to become saturated, which can lead to soft spots in your lawn or unexplained wet areas around your pool deck.
Increased Water Bills
If you have a pool, you’re probably used to seeing an increase in your water bill during the summer months. However, if you notice a sudden and significant increase in your water bill, it could be a sign of a pool leak. When your pool leaks, you’ll have to refill it more often, which can cause your water bill to skyrocket.
What to Do Next
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage and expenses. Ignoring a pool leak can lead to more serious problems, such as structural damage, higher water bills, and damage to your pool equipment.
If you suspect you have a pool leak, don’t hesitate to contact Bullseye Leak Detection. We offer professional leak detection services to help you identify and fix any leaks in your pool. Our experienced technicians use the latest technology to accurately detect leaks, so you can rest assured that your pool is in good hands.
In addition to leak detection, Bullseye Leak Detection also offers leak repair in Sacramento. Our team of experts can repair any plumbing or skimmer leaks we find in your pool, no matter how big or small. We use only the highest-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure that your pool is leak-free and functioning properly. Don’t let a pool leak ruin your summer fun. Contact Bullseye Leak Detection today to schedule an inspection and get your pool back to its pristine condition.