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Sara Oliver

What Causes an Inground Pool To Leak

Updated: Oct 23





Owning an inground pool is like having your piece of paradise on earth.


However, if your water level is dropping. Sooner or later, you’d have problems looking for a solution.


These are called leaks and they can turn your summer oasis into a headache inducing mystery. 


So, to answer first, common causes like faulty pool liner, cracked pool shell, leaky plumbing, worn out seals and weak structural settling are some of the disturbing reasons causing your pool to leak.


Let’s discuss them in detail. 


Usual Suspects: Common Causes Of Pool Leaks


Let’s break it down pool sherlock! There are several sneaky culprits behind pool leaks.


Identifying the cause is the first step toward fixing the problem and getting your pool back to its shimmering glory 


Faulty Pool Liner 


A pool liner is like the skin of your pool, and just like our skin, it’s prone to wear and tear.


Over time, the liner can become brittle, crack or develop holes, especially if it’s closed to harsh chemicals or sunlight.


Even the tiniest tear can cause a slow but steady leak. You need to keep an eye on the age and condition of your liner.


If it’s looking worn or you spot a tear, it might be time for replacement


Cracked Pool Shell 


The pool shell is the foundation of your inground pool. It’s typically made of concrete, fiberglass or vinyl.


While these materials are sturdy, they’re not invincible. Ground movement, freeze-thaw cycles or improper installation can lead to cracks in the shell, allowing water to fix.


So, how do you solve it? Regularly inspect your pool’s shell for cracks or any signs of damage. If you find a crack, get it fixed ASAP before it turns into a bigger issue.



Leaky Plumbing


Your pool’s plumbing system is like its circulatory system, pumping water to a from the pool. If there’s a leak in the plumbing, water loss is inevitable.


This can happen due to corroded pipes, loose fitting or damage, caused by tree roots or ground movement.


Here, the important thing is that you need to pay attention to any wet spots around the pool area or a drop in water pressure.


These can be signs of a plumbing leak. You need a professional to suspect an issue. 


Worn Out Seals


Your pool has several seals, including those around the skimmer, return jets and lights.


Over time, these seals can deteriorate due to exposure to water, chemicals, and weather conditions.


When they fail, water can start seeping out. To get a solution for that, regularly maintain a check that can help you spot worn out seals before they cause a significant leak.


You can either replace them and get a quick and easy fix. 


Structural Settling 


Overtime, the ground around and beneath your pool can shift, causing the pool to settle unevenly.


This can lead to cracks in the pool shell or cause plumbing connections to loosen, resulting in leaks.


To be pro in it, keep an eye out for uneven areas around your pool or cracks in the deck. Addressing ground movement early can prevent more severe damage. 


The Not So Obvious Culprits 


Sometimes, leaks aren’t as straightforward as a cracked shell or a worn liner. Let’s explore some less obvious reasons your pool might be losing water. 


Evaporation Confusion



While this isn’t technically a leak, it can be easy to mistake normal evaporation for a more serious issue.


So for a bucket test, determine if your pool is losing water to evaporation for a more serious issue.


Use a bucket test to determine if your pool is losing water to evaporation or if there’s a leak.


Place a bucket of water on a pool of steps, mark the water level inside the pool level drops more than the bucket’s,  you’ve got a leak.


Faulty Pool Equipment 


Sometimes, the leak isn’t in the pool itself but in the equipment that keeps it running.


Leaks can occur in the pump filter, or heater, especially if they’re old or haven’t been properly maintained.


Make sure to regularly check your pool equipment for leaks or signs of wear. If something seems off, it’s time for a professional tune up or replacement. 


High Water Table 


Groundwater pressure can damage the pool structure.


If your pool appears to “float” consult a professional to install proper drainage systems.


Wait for a surprise in the end to get a recommended professional. 


Conclusion


There you go, that’s how you fix the leaks in the pool. Inground pool leaks can be a real downer, but with a bit of detective work, you can identify the cause and take action before it turns into a bigger issue.


Regular maintenance and early detection are key to keeping your pool in top shape, ensuring it remains your perfect summer retreat.


Whether it’s fixing a minor tear in the liner or addressing more serious structural problems, staying on top of potential issues will keep your pool sparkling and trouble free for years to come.


So, dive into maintenance and enjoy your oasis without the worry of leaks. 


So, you want to have a contractor to do your job and fix the leaks. Check out dream pool spas and see for yourself the amazing case studies they have for you.


Make sure you have a better understanding of your problem and then you can get an easy quote for yourself.

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