Is My Pool Leaking or Just Evaporating?
In a Bakersfield summer, losing about a quarter inch of water a day to evaporation is normal, and hot, dry, windy days take more. If your pool loses much more than that, do a bucket test. Set a bucket of pool water on a step, mark the water level inside and outside the bucket, and compare after 24 hours. If the pool level dropped more than the bucket level, the pool is probably leaking.
How much water loss is normal?
- About a quarter inch a day in summer, or roughly 2 inches a week.
- More on hot, dry, windy days, and when nights are cool and the water is warm.
- More with waterfalls, fountains, spillovers, and lots of splashing.
- Less with a pool cover, which cuts evaporation sharply.
How do I do the bucket test?
- Step 1: Fill the pool to its normal level and turn off any autofill.
- Step 2: Fill a bucket with pool water to about an inch from the top and set it on a pool step, so the bucket sits in the water.
- Step 3: Mark the water level inside the bucket, and mark the pool level on the outside of the bucket.
- Step 4: Run the pump on its normal schedule and wait 24 hours. Keep swimmers out.
- Step 5: Compare the marks. If both dropped the same amount, it is evaporation. If the pool dropped more than the bucket, you likely have a leak.
- Step 6: Repeat the test with the pump off for 24 hours. If the pool loses more with the pump running, the leak is probably in the plumbing or equipment.
Where do pools usually leak?
- At the equipment pad. Look for drips at the pump, filter, heater, and valves, and for wet ground.
- The backwash or waste line. A worn valve lets water run out all the time.
- Around the skimmer, where it meets the pool wall.
- Around lights, return fittings, and steps.
- Cracks in the shell or at the tile line.
- Underground pipes. Soggy spots, sinking soil, or extra-green grass are clues.
When should I call for help?
If the leak is at the equipment pad, such as a pump seal, a filter O-ring, or a valve, call us or bring in the part. Top Dog repairs pool equipment and stocks hundreds of OEM parts. Leaks in the pool shell or in underground pipes need a leak detection specialist. Either way, do not let the water drop below the skimmer, or the pump will pull air and can run dry.
How much water does a pool lose in a day?
About a quarter inch a day in summer is normal. More than that for several days in a row is worth a bucket test.
Does an autofill hide a leak?
Yes. The water level stays put while the leak keeps running. A higher water bill, or chemicals that will not hold, can be the only signs.
Can a leak affect my water chemistry?
Yes. Fresh water keeps diluting chlorine, stabilizer, and salt, so levels keep dropping no matter what you add.
Will a pool cover reduce evaporation?
Yes. A cover is the most effective way to cut evaporation, and it keeps debris out too.
Don't cry, we can help
Bring the part, a photo, or the model number to Top Dog Pool Supply, and we'll help you figure out what it needs. We repair and install pool equipment and are an authorized service center for most major brands.
Visit us at 7440 District Blvd Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93313, or call (661) 664-9000. We're open Monday to Friday 9 to 5, Saturday 9 to 4, and Sundays 10 to 4 from April through September.
Financing is available through GreenSky: 12 monthly payments on pool equipment, interest-free when paid in full within 12 months, subject to credit approval. Call (661) 664-9000 for details.