How to Spot and Fix Pool Leaks Before They Cause Major Damage
It started with a little water loss. Mike, a pool owner in Rocklin, assumed evaporation was the culprit. After all, Northern California summers get hot, and pools naturally lose water. But as the weeks went by, he noticed his water levels dropping faster than normal. The pump started pulling in air, the pool deck had strange damp spots, and his water bill crept higher. What he thought was a minor issue turned into a full-blown leak that cost him thousands in repairs.
Pool leaks are more common than people realize, and if left unchecked, they can cause costly structural damage, equipment failure, and higher water bills. The key is knowing how to detect a leak early and fix it before it turns into a nightmare.
Signs That Your Pool Might Be Leaking
Pool leaks aren’t always obvious. Some develop slowly over time, while others appear suddenly due to cracks, worn-out seals, or plumbing issues. Here’s how to tell if your pool is losing more water than it should.
Unexplained Drop in Water Level
While evaporation can account for small losses—especially in hot and dry areas like Granite Bay or Roseville—a significant drop in water levels over a few days usually means something’s leaking.
A simple way to check? The Bucket Test:
Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on the pool step.
Mark the water level inside the bucket and on the pool wall.
Wait 24 hours. If the pool level drops more than the bucket’s water level, you likely have a leak.
Soggy or Sunken Pool Deck Areas
If you notice wet patches around your pool, areas of sinking concrete, or soft soil near the edges, your leak might be underground, affecting the foundation of your pool.
Higher Water Bills
Unless your entire family suddenly started swimming 24/7, a rising water bill could mean you’re losing more water than normal. If you have an automatic pool filler, you might not even notice the loss—until your bill arrives.
Algae Growth and Chemical Imbalances
If your chemical levels are always off, requiring frequent adjustments, it could be because fresh water is constantly entering your pool due to a leak. This dilutes chlorine levels, making it easier for algae to grow.
Bubbles or Air in Your Pool Pump
If your pump is pulling in air or you see bubbles coming from the return jets, you could have a leak in the plumbing system. This often happens in the suction side of the pool (before the pump).
How to Find the Source of a Pool Leak
Once you suspect a leak, the next step is finding where it’s coming from. Here’s how to pinpoint the problem before calling in a professional.
Check for Visible Cracks in the Pool Surface
Concrete pools, fiberglass pools, and vinyl liner pools all wear down over time, leading to small cracks that leak water. Inspect the walls, floor, and steps for visible damage.
A quick test:
Turn off the pump.
Place a few drops of food coloring near any suspected cracks.
If the dye flows into the crack, water is escaping.
Inspect Pool Equipment and Plumbing
Leaks can also come from the pool system itself—especially the pool pump, heater, or filter connections. Check for:
Dripping pipes near the pump
Wet spots around the filter or heater
Water pooling inside the equipment pad
If your pool pump loses prime or struggles to maintain pressure, you might have a suction-side leak.
Examine the Skimmer and Return Lines
Your skimmer and return lines handle constant water flow, making them common leak points. Over time, these areas can develop gaps or wear out.
A simple skimmer test:
Fill the skimmer with water.
Watch for water draining into the pool when the pump is off.
If the level drops, there’s likely a leak in the skimmer system.
How to Fix a Pool Leak
Once you’ve found the leak, fixing it quickly can save you thousands in potential damage. Here’s what to do depending on the cause.
Patching Small Cracks in the Pool Surface
For minor cracks in concrete pools, you can use:
Epoxy or waterproof pool putty for small cracks
Hydraulic cement for deeper cracks
Vinyl patch kits for vinyl liner pools
If cracks reappear frequently, it might be a structural issue, requiring professional resurfacing.
Repairing Pool Plumbing Leaks
If pipes, fittings, or the pump system are leaking, you might need:
Pipe sealant for small plumbing leaks
Replacement O-rings or gaskets for worn-out seals
Professional re-plumbing for severe leaks
Leaks in underground plumbing require a specialist to detect and fix.
Fixing a Skimmer or Return Line Leak
Leaks in the skimmer or return lines often need professional repair, but you can try:
Applying pool putty for minor skimmer cracks
Sealing return line leaks with a waterproof sealant
When to Call a Professional for Pool Leak Detection
While small leaks can be patched DIY-style, hidden or underground leaks require professional help. Here’s when you should bring in the experts:
You can’t find the source of the leak despite testing.
You suspect underground plumbing damage.
Your pool loses more than 2 inches of water per day.
There are multiple leaks, not just one small crack.
The leak is near important structural areas (pool floor, main drain, or foundation).
Leak detection specialists use advanced tools like sonar, pressure tests, and infrared cameras to pinpoint leaks without digging up your pool.
Preventing Future Pool Leaks
The best way to avoid expensive leak repairs is regular maintenance. Here’s how to keep your pool leak-free:
Inspect Your Pool Weekly
Take five minutes a week to check the water level, skimmer, and pool surface for changes.
Schedule Annual Professional Inspections
A yearly inspection by a pool professional can catch small leaks early, before they become big problems.
Maintain Proper Chemical Balance
Unbalanced chemical levels can weaken pool surfaces, leading to cracks over time. Keep an eye on:
Chlorine levels
pH balance
Alkalinity and calcium hardness
Check Pool Equipment for Wear & Tear
Replace old gaskets, seals, and pipes before they fail and cause leaks.
Keep an Eye on Water Bills
If your water bill jumps suddenly, investigate immediately before a small leak turns into a disaster.
Final Thoughts
A small pool leak might not seem like a big deal at first, but if left unchecked, it can cost thousands in repairs. Catching leaks early and fixing them quickly is the key to saving money and extending the life of your pool.
If you suspect a pool leak and need professional help, American Dream Pool & Spa Service is here to assist homeowners in Rocklin, Roseville, Lincoln, and the surrounding Northern California areas. Contact us today for expert pool inspections and repairs to keep your backyard oasis in top shape!
American Dream Pool and Spa Service is a trusted provider of pool and spa maintenance, repair, and cleaning services. They serve the areas of Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, and Sheridan, CA, offering comprehensive care for both residential and commercial pools. Their services include everything from routine maintenance to specialized repairs for pool and spa equipment, ensuring that every pool owner enjoys a clean, safe, and well-maintained pool or spa throughout the year. With a focus on customer satisfaction, American Dream Pool and Spa Service strives to keep pools in top condition, regardless of the season.
