Jan 12, 2023

Key takeaways:

  • Pool Leaks can worsen over time, causing damage and jeopardizing your pool’s structural integrity.
  • Some main reasons for leaks are temperature fluctuations, tree roots, high water pressure, cracks in the shell, seismic force, shifting ground, leaks in the skimmer, chemical imbalance, or broken pipes and fittings.
  • Signs that your pool leaks include water level fluctuations, excessive water bills, cracks in your pool’s surface or deck, and rusting pipes.
  • If you think your pool is leaking, contact a qualified professional to help diagnose and repair the problem.

A leak in your pool can be a significant headache. Not only it adds more work for you to fix, but it can also cost money if the damage is severe enough. Leakages are one of the most common issues people face with their pools, so understanding why and how to prevent them is critical. The experts at AsureNet will go over the most frequent reasons for a pool leak and how you can fix them in this blog post.

Reason 01: Temperature

Temperature fluctuations may wreak havoc on your pool, causing fractures and other damage. These issues will only be visible once you restart your pool when the seasons change. You must carefully close your pool for the winter, which may include draining the water. If you are uncomfortable closing and opening your pool and examining it for winter damage, we recommend hiring a professional pool maintenance team to assist you.

Reason 02: Tree Roots

Tree roots can cause a big problem for your pool, entering through the pipes and creating cracks. If you notice that your pool is leaking more than usual, it’s essential to check around the perimeter of your pool for any nearby trees that may be responsible for this issue. You can then take preventative measures such as trimming back branches or relocating the tree.

Reason 03: High Water Pressure

Having too much water pressure in your pumps or filter can lead to leakages in several different areas of your pool. High-pressure leaks are often evidenced by bubbling near return jets and other points where hydraulics meet the pool’s shell. To decrease the water pressure, try using a lower setting on your pump, increasing the pool’s return line, or repairing any damaged pressure-side components of your system.

Reason 04: Cracks in The Shell

When pools age, they become more susceptible to cracking and developing leaks. If you notice water leaking from an area on the pool’s surface, it may be because of a crack in the shell. To repair this issue, you must apply a patching compound to fill the affected area and prevent further leakage.

Reason 05: Seismic Force

Although earthquakes are less prevalent in Burr Ridge than in other parts of the country, seismic pressure can cause swimming pool leaks. Seismic pressure, which occurs deep under the ground’s surface, can build up and harm swimming pool structures.

The pressure can induce movement in and around the pool, which might result in cracks and leaks. Often, the seismic pressure cannot be felt on the ground, and occupants are unaware that a quake has happened.

Reason 06: Shifting Ground

The ground around your swimming pool will continue to settle and change for some time after it is created. The time it takes for the settling to occur is determined by your location and the quantity and quality of mud in your yard.

An uneven foundation can cause cracks in your pool construction when the earth changes to “settle” around the pool structure. Leaks may develop as these cracks expand. Leaks in and around plastic pool skimmers can also be caused by settling.

Reason 07: Leaks in The Skimmer

The skimmer is responsible for drawing water from the surface of your pool and passing it through the filter. Over time, however, wear and tear can take its toll on this vital component, causing cracks and leaks. Fortunately, repairing a cracked or leaking skimmer is usually a simple matter of replacing the gaskets and O-rings—two relatively inexpensive parts that are easy to find at most hardware stores. Turn off the power to your pool, disassemble the skimmer, replace all the gaskets and O-rings, and then reassemble everything before turning the power back on again.

Reason 08: Chemical Imbalance

Chemicals are required for the safety and sanitation of your pool since they protect swimmers from germs and other contaminants in the water. We understand how difficult it may be to keep your pool’s chemical levels under check, but the necessity of proper balance cannot be overstated. An imbalance is not only hazardous to the people who use your pool; it may also harm the foundation and other components of your pool, resulting in cracks and leaks.

Reason 09: Broken or Loose Pipe and Fitting

Another typical form of pool leak is around broken or loose fittings and pipes. Cracks and leaks often occur at one of three locations:

  • Where the pipes link to the pump.
  • Where the pipes join each other.
  • Where the pipes connect to the filter.

Use the dye test to look at these regions. Fill the opening of the conduit at the rear of the socket using putty or other caulking agents suited for your pool building material to repair this. If you need help repairing the leak or lack the necessary equipment, hire a professional leak detection firm to perform the work.

Signs That Your Pool Is Leaking:

Leaks are sometimes prominent and easy to recognize. Other times, they may accumulate gradually, leaving you with high water bills and pricey repairs. Fortunately, there are specific indicators you may check for to determine if your pool leaks.

  • Water level fluctuations
  • Wet areas in your yard
  • Excessive water bills
  • Cracks in the surface or deck of your pool
  • Pool tiles that are loose, fractured, or moving
  • Growth of algae in the pool
  • Standing water beneath the pool equipment
  • Pipes that are corroding

Leaks can occur at any moment and at any location in your pool. Keep an eye out for any indications of damage or a leak. Contact a qualified pool professional to diagnose the problem and determine the best action for repairs. With proper care and maintenance, your pool can give you years of enjoyment.

AsureNet is your one-stop shop in Burr Ridge for all your swimming pool needs. We specialize in thermal glass inground pools and can supply anything from the pool to concrete or brick pavers, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, pavilions, and other features.

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