How To Repair Leaking Pool Pipes

Assess Where The Source Of The Drip Is Located

For any problems concerning your pool PVC pipes, tracing the source of the problem should always be the initial step. From then on, we can easily acknowledge it and find the right solution. In case of pool PVC pipe leaks, looking for the source of the drip is the key. The earlier we can detect the source, the lesser the chance for the problem to maximize to other parts.

How Much Does It Cost To Find A Pool Leak

The cost for pool leak detection varies, depending on what method youre using or if you decide to hire someone.

A DIY kit can cost anywhere from a few dollars to $30 or $40. Hiring a professional can cost quite a bit more. FIXr lists the national average for this cost at $900 but shows it can run up into the thousands for things like cracked beams or complete tile replacement.

The Swimming Pool Dye Test

If there is a location in your pool that you suspect is leaking, you can test that specific area with dye. Your goal in doing this test is to release a tiny amount of dye in the specific location where you suspect a leak.

When you conduct a pool dye test, make sure that your pool circulation system is turned off and that there is little or no wind causing movement in your pool water. Your pool water should be as still and as calm as possible when you do this test, so you are also required to be as still as possible as even putting your arm into the water can make the water move and the results of the test hard to assess.

To start the test, release a steady stream of dye into the area surrounding the suspected leak. Once you release the dye, it will tend to stay together and float gently with the subtle motion of the water moving. If there is a leak, you will see the dye being actively pulled out of the pool through the leak.

Dye testing is particularly useful around steps, skimmers, and lights. To detect a leak using this test, the key is to monitor the movement of the dye in the water. Take note, however, that cracks in your pool floor or in the main drain are not ideal for dye testing, unless you have scuba equipment that can allow you to get close enough to conduct the test in these areas.

Dye testers are used only as supplemental tools in leak detection, so dont expect the dye test to be a magic beacon pointing at your pool leak.

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What Causes A Leaky Swimming Pool

Aside from knowing whether or not you actually have a leak, figuring out what caused it can be another headache in and of itself.

The truth is, there are a number of things that can create a leak in your pool and in some cases, like seals deteriorating or movement in the ground, its not really something you can prevent.

Thats not always the case, however. To some extent, you can avert disaster by making sure your plumbing is installed and maintained correctly, as well additional pool fittings that are prone to leakages.

In any case, identifying the cause and taking preventative measures is important for both the welfare of your pool, but also your finances as its a huge waste of water, heat and chemicals.

Your Complete Guide To Fixing A Pool Leak

by Nelson Inda | | Blog, Pool Leak Detection |

Pool leaks can be grating, especially when you dont know where the leak is coming from. While it is normal for swimming pools to get marred from time to time, that doesnt make fixing pool leaks any less of a hassle.

This article shares everything you need to know about pool leaks. From identifying pool leaks to fixing them, learn here how to get your swimming pool back in tip-top shape again.

Swimming pools naturally lose some water due to evaporation or splash-out. However, you might find the level of your pool losing more than one inch every week. If thats the case, then you may have a leak that is worth spending some time and money to repair.

Pools can leak through fittings or accessories, plumbing, or shell. It is important to pay attention to pool leaks to save water, heat, and chemicals. Controlling pool leaks can also prevent any future damage to your pools structural components.

There are easy steps to repairing pool leaks. But if you cant take care of the problem yourself, you can hire a well-equipped pool professional in Florida who can do it for you.

Read on to learn more about identifying and repairing pool leaks.

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The Most Common Reason For Leak

Your pools main drain line was probably not winterized properly, or the valve that locked air in the line was bad /leaky, or the plug used to lock air in the line popped out. In any case, water froze in the line, when the water froze it expanded in the plastic line and cracked it. When this happens above the ground, the pipe blows apart, often into many pieces, when this happens in the ground, it usually just puts a thin crack in the line.

How Water Leaks Could Damage Your Property

Compromised Foundations: With water pouring constantly into the earth, soggy ground surrounding the foundations could cause a shift, resulting in the foundation moving.

Mould and Rot: With water entering the home, it tends to create an ideal breeding ground, especially for the harmful mould and mildew. Mould not only smells bad, but also endangers the family. Constant presence of water can cause wood to rot and compromise the structural integrity of your home.

If you leave leaking water main pipes or leaking swimming pool pipes they will cause lots of damage.

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Don’t Let Pesky Pool Leaks Ruin Your Summer Fun

During the life of your pool, there will probably be a leak.

Unaddressed, a leak from a pool will do great damage, including undermining the concrete deck around the pool.

Some leaks never surface. There is no wet spot. Where does the water go? It stays underground.

So, if you have one or more symptoms of a leak it is prudent to do some investigation.

Lets start with the basics. What are some observable symptoms of a leak?

• Your pool loses more than a ¼ inch of water a day
• There are cracks in or around the pool deck
• You need to add water more than once a week
• If you have an autofill, your water bill increases
• Grass around the area is soggy
• Your pool deck is sinking or lifting
• The DIY Bucket Test indicates there is a leak

What is a Bucket Test?

Pool Light Replacement Cost

The average price of light replacement ranges from $300 to $450 per light, depending on the style that is installed. Lights can become damaged or corroded over time or be damaged by impact. If one of them is leaking, there is a possibility that others may be affected too. After inspection, the repairman may suggest replacing more lights, not just the one that is leaking.

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Repairing Concrete Pool Leaks

Concrete pool leak repairs can be extensive and costly, depending on the damage. After pinpointing the culprit of the leak, you may be able to repair it yourself with a temporary patch, or youll be forced to immediately call professionals to make the repairs .

How do you fix a pool leak?

• Fittings Leaks: To repair a leak near the faceplate, jets, or lights, you can likely put silicone around it to secure the water and stop the leak.
• Plumbing Leaks: If you think there is a leak in your plumbing, call a professional. It could involve digging up the foundation around the pool and/or replacing pipes. This would be one of those scarier leaks that will likely cost more to repair.
• Main Drain Leaks: Unfortunately, the only option to repair the main drain is to replace it. While you wait for the replacement, you can plug a pipe into the drain and turn it off completely.
• Skimmer Leaks: A temporary fix for a leak in the skimmer is to patch it with silicone. Most cases require a skimmer replacement as a permanent fix.

Does The Pool Leak All Of The Time

If the pool is leaking all of the time, there may be a more severe problem than faulty or worn-out plumbing accessories. There may be a leak from the pools structure, such as cracks in the plaster. The most common leak is a separation between the plastic skimmer and the concrete pool which can easily be fixed with pool putty. Underwater lights can also be the instigator, as they do eventually leak. Since this problem can be more serious, a leak detection system may be the most expedient next step.

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Hacks For Identifying A Pool Leak

• Use Food Coloring: If you know you have a leak but want to be sure of the location, grab some food coloring and squeeze it near the cracked area. If there is a leak, youll likely see the food coloring get sucked into the crack. The same applies to areas around fittings and also the mouth of the skimmer.
• The Bucket Method: Place a 5-gallon bucket on the second step of your pool. Fill it to match the water level in your pool. Turn off the pump and check the levels in 24 hours. If the water in the bucket is higher than the water surrounding it, you probably have a leak.

Once youve determined that you have a leak, the next step is to repair it.

How Does Pool Leak Detection Work

Finding a pool leak yourself is sometimes pretty hard to do, especially if its a tiny little liner tear or puncture.

But we listed 2 methods to try. These both include different steps to find the most common types of leaks.

The bucket test works by allowing you to see if your pool is losing water due to evaporation or an actual leak. And the ink test shows you where water is seeping out by watching the flow of the dye.

Professional leak detectors use items like electrical probes to track the sources of least resistant connections. These send them audible frequencies letting them know where the voltage is weak.

They also might use a pressure method where they can tell where the plumbing is losing water pressure.

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Tree Root Invasion By Surrounding Landscaping

Then theres the issue of whats planted around the pool. Theres no doubt the landscaping around a pool can often go a long way toward enhancing its exotic or tropical appeal. But sadly, without professional landscaping advice many homeowners fall into the trap of planting certain species of plants that have the look and are low maintenance, but which also have highly invasive root systems.

One such example is the hardy almost invincible rubber tree which is seen in many Australian backyards. In dry times, the roots of such trees seek out whatever water sources they can find, and cracks or poorly glued joins in PVC pool pipes can mean they enter and crack those pipes wide open with careless abandon.

Wait 24 Hours & Check Results

Once everything is in place, its just a case of keeping your pool running under normal conditions for about a day. If, after 24 hours, the pool water level has decreased by the same amount as the bucket water level, you do not have a leak. However, if the pool water level has decreased more than the bucket water level, you probably have a leak.

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How Do You Know You Have A Pool Pipe Leak

There are a few signs to pay attention to around your pool that may indicate the beginning of apool pipe leak.

• Cracks in the garage concrete floor
• Damp carpet or floor
• Mildew, mold or green algae growth around baseboards and the lower part of walls
• Your floor suddenly seems warm and damp you may have a hot water leak.
• A drop in water pressure when you turn on the tap
• A damp spot in the yard that doesnt seem to dry

Additional Considerations And Costs

• Liner rip prevention. Prevent rips or tears in your vinyl liner by keeping any sharp or abrasive objects out of the water.
• Multiple leaks. Leakages can occur in different places at the same time, but with proper detection, they can be repaired together, saving money.
• Plaster winterization. Plaster is subject to freeze/thaw cycles that can cause it to crack. Make sure that you winterize your pool properly to prevent this.
• Maintenance. Most in-ground models last around 30 years or more with proper maintenance. Above-ground models last 15 – 20 years. Conduct a regular maintenance routine to prolong the life of yours.
• Patch kits. Small leakages can be repaired with patch kits. They are priced around $20, but you need to follow the instructions carefully to ensure a good repair.
• Fiberglass. Fiberglass models are nonporous, so they are easier to maintain and rarely crack. If they need repair, however, it can be expensive.

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How To Find A Leak In A Pool

If you do not want to hire a professional to locate the leakage, you can do the job yourself if you are willing to get wet. First, examine the entire surface and any likely areas. In a vinyl liner, this may look like a dark place that will not get cleaned with the vacuum. In a concrete or fiberglass model, this can look like a crack. If you do not see any visible areas, focus on any penetrations, such as filters, pumps, and skimmers. Anything that penetrates the side of the structure could cause leakage. This could include lights, filters, pumps, waterfalls, diving boards, and more. When checking for leaks, investigate all of these features.

Once you identify the most likely places where the leak could be, get into the water with a pair of goggles and a small bottle of food coloring. Squirt the food coloring next to the area where you suspect the issue to be. If this is the area, the food coloring should be sucked into the leak. If you are unable to find the cause but are sure there is a leaking, call in a professional because the issue may be in the plumbing or equipment.

Fort Myers Pool Leak Detection And Repair Aqua Leak Detection

Complete Structure Test

We dive every pool to perform an exhaustive inspection of the structure of the pool. As a part of this procedure, we will also look closely for possible points of concern to avoid future leaks.

Plumbing Pressure Test

We pressure test every pool. This is a crucial part of our testing because it accounts for the pool plumbing that we cannot visually inspect. We use water & air pressure to test from the pool back to the pump.

Equipment Diagnostic

Our testing would not be complete if we did not carefully inspect the pool equipment for leaks of possible points of failure. We look closely for possible problems before they occur.

Your Budget-Friendly Pool Leak Detection Services in Fort Myers

We will find and fix your swimming pool leaks Call us now!

Swimming pools are growing in popularity, especially during the summer months to beat up the heat. However, one major concern for many that once the summer kicks in, is discovering a swimming pool leak. We, at Aqua Leak Detection, are ready to help you with your pool problems.

Our services are available throughout Fort Myers and other nearby cities. We are equipped with skilled, most competent personnel, high-tech machinery, and years of experience so that we can help you to the best we can. We will assure you we will locate the leak and fix it as soon as possible.

Seven Scary Facts about Pool Leaks

Pool leaks are not obvious.

Leaks can develop into sinkholes.

A sudden spike in water consumption

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Cost To Fix A Pool Leak By Solution

There are several ways to fix leaks. Youll spend between $100 and $5,000 to do so based on the solution required. For example, the price of replacing a gasket will be nominal compared to the price of replacing the liner. It can help you plan for your own repair by knowing what to expect based on the chosen fix for the leakage that you are experiencing. In the table and subsections below, well look at the most common leakage solutions, their costs, and what each entails.

Still Cant Find The Leak

There are times where the DIY approach just doesnt cut it, and experts with specialist equipment should be called in. If this is the case, I highly recommend Googling for a local pool repair company to come out and take a look.

They may use techniques like:

• Pressurizing: Using compressed air, they will pressurize your pipes to see where air pressure falls along your pipe. This will also force bubbles from the compromised area, making it easier to identify.
• Camera: They may instead feed a television camera through your pipes to locate the leak, listening for water escape with a very sensitive microphone.

This could cost you anywhere from a couple hundreds to even a couple thousand dollars in the worst cases, but at least youll know it was done properly.

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