t is normal for pool and spa water levels to change with time, seasons, wind and weather, dew point, and pool size, however if you are losing more than a quarter of an inch over a 24 hr. period you may have a leak. You may suspect a leak if you notice the pool or spa is settling further into the ground, uneven or unusual wet areas around the pool, algae growth, or automatic filters running more than normal. Early detection and repair of a leak will save you money and get you back to enjoying your pool. An unrepaired leak will only cause more serious damage the longer it goes untreated making it more expensive to repair. Before becoming too concerned about a leak you can do a simple test to determine if water loss in your swimming pool is due to a leak or is just evaporation. This simple test is called the bucket test. The Bucket Test will be outlined later on this page.
The most common leak is a separation between the plastic skimmer and the concrete pool.
However a pool leaking only with the equipment ON may indicate a pressure side (return) leak.
Indicators your pool may have a leak:
1. Water lose exceeds 1/4" or more in a 24 hour period.
2. Cracks in the pool deck or surrounding area.
3. Decking has shifted and appears to be sinking or lifted.
4. Wet spots in ground near the pool or spa.
5. Surrounding tiles are loose or falling off.
6. Increased algae growth.
7. Noticeable performance loss in pump equipment.
8. Increase in water bill.
Bucket Test Procedure:
Turn off your pump and auto-fill first.
If it is too windy, do the test another day
If it rains during the 24 hr period, repeat the test.
1. Bring the pool water to its normal level
2. Fill an empty bucket with pool water to about one inch from the top of bucket. (By filling the bucket close to the top you are ensuring that air movement over the surface of the bucket will similar to that of the pool.)
3. Place the bucket on the first or second step of the pool. To keep it from floating away it may be necessary to place a few bricks or rocks into the bucket. (By placing the bucket in the pool water you are ensuring that the water temperature of each will be similar).
4. Mark the water level inside the bucket.
5. Mark the water level of the pool on the outside of the bucket, on the pool wall, or skimmer face plate.
6. After 24 hours, compare the two levels. If the pool water (outside mark) goes down more than the inside water level, there is probably a leak.
Establishing suspected leak locations with a "Pump ON/Pump OFF test"
Comparing the results of the bucket tests with the pump ON for 24 hours to the results with the pump OFF for 24 hours can provide additional information on the leak’s location.
The bucket test exposes water in a bucket to the same conditions as those affecting your swimming pool or spa. The Bucket Test is an easy test to see if you are losing too much water in your pool or spa. If you are, you may possibly have a leak or is it just normal water evaporation.
Once a leak has been found you can trust the leak experts at DTM Pool Service to follow a strict protocol so that your leak problem can be promptly solved and that you and your family can continue enjoying your pool.
You may be asking yourself, "How exactly do you find a leak in such a large area?" And, "How exactly is the leak repaired?"
At DTM Pool Service, we have the expertise to successfully diagnose and treat your pools leak problem. Our leak detection specialists are highly trained and experienced. Additionally, we have assigned them to this specialty in recognition of their problem solving capabilities, a key requirement for succeeding at leak detection.
Sonar listening devices are specialized tools that resemble a metal detector you might see someone using at the beach. These devices use sonar technology, just like U.S. Navy submarines, to detect levels of movement with water. Using a commercial grade sonar listening device is important in providing truly professional, accurate, and comprehensive leak detection. We also use dive dye tests. We dive in the pool and use dye to detect leaks. We will also pressure test the plumbing lines. This part of the process is useful to locate where in a plumbing system a leak may be occurring.
Once we have found a leak, our technicians are well qualified to fix it. Whether the repair is a simple patch, a skimmer replacement, a line replacement, or something else, you can count on DTM Pool Service to repair your swimming pool correctly the first time. To discuss our leak detection services or any of our other pool services, please feel free to contact DTM Pool Service at 972-288-9106 or 469-426-9432. For your convenience, you may also request services from this site.
Thank you for your interest in DTM Pool Service, we look forward to serving you!
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