How to tell if Your Pool Is Leaking (and What to do About it)

Owning a pool in Florida can be a dream.. That is until you start noticing your water level drop faster than usual. If your pool is losing water, it could be more than evaporation. Even a small leak can lead to higher water bills, chemical imbalances, or long-term structural damage.

The good news? With the right steps, you can spot the signs early and protect your investment.

Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to find a pool leak and when to call in the professionals.

1. Know the Common Pool Leak Signs

While some water loss is normal in Florida’s heat, keep an eye out for these pool leak signs Florida homeowners often experience:

• A drop in water level of more than ¼ inch per day

• Soggy or wet areas around your pool deck or yard

• Air bubbles in the return lines or visible cracks in the pool shell

• Difficulty maintaining your pool’s chemical balance

• The need to add water more than once a week

If one or more of these sound familiar, your pool may be leaking.

2. Perform a Quick Water Loss Test

Before calling in a pro, try this simple bucket test to see if you’re dealing with evaporation or an actual leak:

1. Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on the pool step so both water levels match.

2. Mark each level with tape.

3. Leave it for 24 hours without swimming or adding water.

4. Compare the two levels.

If the pool water drops more than the bucket, you likely have a leak.

3. Check the Usual Problem Areas

If your pool is leaking, these are the most common spots to check first:

• Pool skimmer: Cracks around the skimmer throat or housing.

• Lights: Worn or loose gaskets behind the light niche.

• Plumbing: Underground return or suction lines.

• Main drain: Hidden leaks that slowly drain water.

Sometimes leaks are easy to see, but often they’re hidden deep within your pool’s system, and that’s when expert testing makes all the difference.

4. Call in the Leak Detection Experts

At Aqua Res-Q, we perform comprehensive pool leak detection services to identify and fix problems fast! We save you time, money, and frustration.

During our inspections, our technicians dive your pool to examine:

• The pool shell for cracks or damage

• The main drain and light niche for hidden leaks

• The skimmer and skimmer throat for structural issues

Then, we pressure test all return lines to ensure accuracy.

We use advanced methods including:

• Dye testing for pinpoint visual leaks

• Pressure testing to check underground lines

• Specialized sound equipment to locate leaks others might miss

If your pool requires an exact location for a pipe break, we use a deck plate system to trace pipes beneath your decking so you know precisely where the problem lies before any digging or repairs begin.

Leak detections start at just $275, compared to competitors charging $450 or more, making Aqua Res-Q one of Florida’s best values in expert leak detection!

5. Protect Your Pool Investment

If your pool is losing water or you’re noticing signs of a leak, don’t wait. Early detection can prevent costly repairs and protect your pool for years to come.

Schedule your professional leak detection today with Aqua Res-Q, Florida’s trusted experts in precision leak detection and repair.