The short answer
Do the Bucket Test
The bucket test is a simple way to separate normal water loss from a leak. Fill a plastic bucket with water and set it on a step or shelf in the pool, so the water inside the bucket sits at the same level as the pool water. Add a few rocks to keep it from floating away.
Mark the water level on the inside of the bucket and on the pool tile or skimmer with a pencil. Wait 24 hours without swimming or adding water. Then compare the two marks. If the pool level dropped noticeably more than the bucket level, the extra loss points to a leak somewhere in the shell, plumbing, or equipment.
Rule Out Normal Evaporation
Evaporation happens every day, especially on warm, dry, or windy days. A pool can lose a quarter to a half inch of water per day to evaporation alone, depending on weather and how much sun the pool gets. When you run the bucket test, the bucket water evaporates at about the same rate as the pool water.
If your bucket and pool drop nearly the same amount, the loss is likely just evaporation. Keep the bucket test going for a few days to confirm the pattern. Seasonal weather swings affect evaporation, so a longer test gives a clearer answer.
- Check the water level after any heavy rain or wind
- Run the test when the pump is off for a full day
- Mark levels at the same time each day
- Repeat the test for at least three days
- Keep the pool covered at night to reduce evaporation
Look for Obvious Leak Signs
While the bucket test runs, inspect the pool area for clues. Look for wet spots in the surrounding soil, cracks in the plaster or liner, or water pooling near the equipment pad. Check the pump, filter, and heater for drips or damp connections. A leak in the plumbing can lose water without any visible surface crack.
Also listen for the sound of running water near the pump or valves when everything is off. If you find a wet area or hear water moving, that points to a leak in the circulation system. For a leak inside the pool shell, you might notice soft spots or a shifting liner along the walls.
When to Call the Pros
If the bucket test shows a clear leak, or if you spot wet ground or a cracked shell, bring in local water damage pros. They have tools like pressure testing and dye testing to pinpoint the leak location without tearing up your yard. They can also check the underground pipes that feed the pool.
The pros can help you decide whether the leak is in the pool structure or the plumbing. For a leak under the pool deck or in the subfloor, you might need a subfloor repair service. Acting quickly prevents the leak from washing away soil or damaging nearby structures.
Prevent Further Water Damage
A pool leak can do more than waste water. It can saturate the ground around the pool, weaken the deck, and even seep into your home's foundation. If you suspect a leak, turn off the pool pump and close the main drain valve to reduce water flow while you test. This also slows erosion.
If water has already reached your house, dry the area and call the pros for a water damage inspection. They can assess moisture levels and recommend drying steps. Catching a leak early saves you from bigger repairs down the road. If you live in Layton, keep your pool equipment shutoff valve location written down for quick access.
- Turn off the pump before testing
- Close the main drain to slow water loss
- Check the area around the pool for soft ground
- Look for water stains on the house foundation
- Keep a record of your daily water level readings
Talk to someone now
Call (801) 383-0232 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
How much water loss per day is normal?
Normal evaporation can be a quarter to a half inch per day, but it depends on sun, wind, and humidity. Run the bucket test over several days to compare. If your pool loses more than the bucket, that extra loss is likely a leak.
Can a leak be in the pool plumbing?
Yes. Leaks often happen in the pipes that carry water to and from the pool. Look for wet spots near the pump or valves, or listen for running water when the system is off. The pros can pressure-test the lines to find the exact spot.
What should I do if I find a leak?
Stop using the pool and turn off the pump to limit water loss. Contact local water damage pros for a leak detection service. They can locate the leak and help you plan the repair, whether it's in the shell, plumbing, or nearby structure.