How to Find and Fix a Pool Leak

Before reading this article, you should first make sure your pool is in fact leaking, and not simply evaporating. This can be done quickly and easily using the bucket method.

For the bucket method, you’ll need:

1. 15-20L plastic bucket

2. Permanent marker

Once you have your items, follow these steps:

1. Place the empty bucket in the water on the second step of your pool.

2. Fill the bucket with water to match the pool’s water level.

3. Use the marker or duct tape to mark this level inside the bucket.

4. Turn off any pool equipment that could alter the water level.

5. Wait 24 hours, then compare the water level of the bucket and your pool.

Finding the leak:

One way to locate your leak is by using the ink method. All you need to get started is a pair of goggles, a snorkel and some dark food colouring. When you have what you need, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the filtration system.

2. Allow your pool to leak to help find the problem area. Once your pool stops draining, you will have a better idea of where to look. However, be mindful of your situation - if your leak is on the pool floor, you will be better off draining the pool. See our pool draining guide.

3. Once you believe you have found the leak, add some dark food colouring to the water and follow where it goes. This should hopefully lead you to the leak.

Fixing the leak:

In any case with a leak, we recommend consulting a pool professional to inspect your pool as there may be more serious damage as a result of poor workmanship or engineering. However, there are some DIY fixes for minor leaks that can be carried out with a proper guide:

The three most common leaks are:

1. Skimmer leaks - the most common leak is a separation between the plastic skimmer and the concrete pool. This is easily fixed with pool putty.

2. Light leaks - often the conduit pipe will come apart, break or separate from the niche. This is difficult to patch. There are various methods to patch a bad conduit connection. A two-part epoxy that dries hard, with putty, silicone or caulk is all possible fixes.

3. Liner leaks - simply patch it with a vinyl liner patch kit. If underwater, use a wet patch kit.

Please note, not all leaks are detectable using DIY methods. You may be dealing with plumbing or equipment problems more severe than you realise. Because of this, even after patching leaks yourself, we encourage you to hire a pool professional to run their eyes over your pool to ensure you are not putting a bandaid over a major issue.