Is my pool leaking, or is it evaporation?

Evaporation is normal in Phoenix

The company's leak page says a Phoenix pool can lose around a quarter inch of water a day to evaporation in summer, more on hot, windy days. Evaporation is steady and follows the weather. A leak keeps draining regardless of weather, and often faster when the pump is running.

The bucket test

The company's own at-home check, from its leak detection page:

1. Set a bucket on the pool's top step or on the deck and fill it to match the pool's water level.
2. Mark the water level inside the bucket and on the pool tile or skimmer.
3. Run the pool as normal for 24 hours, then compare. If the pool dropped noticeably more than the bucket, you likely have a leak.
4. Repeat with the pump off. If the pool loses more with the pump running, the leak is probably in the plumbing. If it loses about the same either way, look at the shell, fittings or lights.

Where leaks usually are

The page lists the skimmer (where it meets the shell) as the most common leak point, then return fittings and light niches, underground plumbing between the pool and equipment, the equipment pad, and structural cracks in the shell.

Other signs to watch

• A pool that loses more than the bucket test
• Soggy spots or new cracks in the deck or yard
• Loose tile or cracks in the shell or steps

How professionals find the leak

The company measures water loss against evaporation with the pump on and off, then inspects and uses dye testing and plumbing pressure tests to find the exact spot. Its published price for comprehensive leak detection starts at $495 and rises with pool complexity. Repairs come with a written quote after the leak is found. Many fitting, skimmer and light leaks can be repaired with the water in or partly lowered, while structural shell cracks may need draining.

Why it pays to find it early

Per the same page, escaping water can wash out and soften the soil under the pool and deck, which leads to settling, deck cracks and shell damage. A small fitting leak left alone can turn into a structural crack or a failed plumbing run.

More detail: pool leak detection and repair on our main site.