A swimming pool is a wonderful addition to any home, especially during the warm months in places like Toronto, York Region, and Muskoka. However, leaks can turn your backyard paradise into a costly headache if not identified and repaired in time. If you’re asking yourself, “How can I tell where my pool is leaking?”, you’re not alone. Pool leaks are more common than many homeowners think and identifying their source requires a mix of observation, testing, and sometimes professional support.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the signs, tools, and methods you can use to determine if and where your pool is leaking. This information can save you hundreds of litres of water, protect your property, and prevent future structural issues.
Why Pool Leaks Matter
A typical residential swimming pool holds between 40,000 to 80,000 litres of water. Losing even 1/4 inch of water per day can add up to over 6,000 litres per month, which is not only wasteful but can also lead to erosion, increased chemical use, pump damage, and higher water bills.
If you’ve been wondering how can I tell where my pool is leaking, this guide will break it down for you using technical but easy-to-understand language.
Common Signs of a Pool Leak
Before locating the source, you need to confirm that a leak exists. Here are signs that your pool might be leaking:
1. Rapid Water Loss
Normal evaporation in Ontario ranges from 1/8 to 1/4 inch per day, depending on temperature, humidity, and wind. If you’re losing more than 1/4 inch daily, there’s likely a leak.
2. Wet Spots Around the Pool
Soft or soggy patches around the pool deck or nearby lawn can indicate underground leaks, especially if they persist even during dry weather.
3. Cracks in Pool Structure
Visible cracks in the pool’s shell or surrounding deck area might allow water to escape. These cracks can form due to shifting soil, freeze-thaw cycles, or prolonged stress.
4. Air Bubbles in the Pump System
If you notice bubbles coming from the return lines or pump basket, this can suggest air is being sucked into the system through a plumbing leak.
5. Unusual Increase in Chemical Use
Leaking water means more water needs to be treated. If you notice a spike in chlorine, pH balancers, or stabilizers, you might be compensating for a leak.
DIY Steps to Identify a Pool Leak
So, you’ve spotted the signs and still wonder how can I tell where my pool is leaking? Here are some practical steps to get you started.
Step 1: The Bucket Test
This simple test helps determine if the water loss is due to evaporation or a leak.
How to do it:
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Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on a pool step.
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Mark the water level inside the bucket and the level of the pool on the outside.
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Wait 24 to 48 hours without swimming or backwashing.
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Compare water loss. If the pool level drops more than the bucket level, you have a leak.
Step 2: Inspect Around Pool Equipment
Check all visible pipes, valves, and seals near the pump, filter, and heater. Look for drips, wet patches, or corrosion. Equipment leaks can cause consistent water loss and pressure drops.
Step 3: Examine the Pool Liner or Shell
Carefully inspect the liner for tears or separations, especially around skimmers, lights, returns, and corners. In concrete pools, look for cracks or hollow spots.
Step 4: Test the Plumbing Lines
Turn off the pump and listen closely to the plumbing lines. Sometimes, underground leaks can be heard as a faint hissing sound. If you suspect a plumbing issue, you may need pressure testing or electronic line detection.
Areas Where Pool Leaks Commonly Occur
Understanding where to look saves time and prevents unnecessary repairs. The following are the most common leak-prone areas:
1. Skimmers
Over time, the seal between the skimmer and pool wall can crack, allowing water to seep behind. This is one of the most common areas for leaks.
2. Main Drains
Leaks in the main drain can be difficult to detect without diving equipment. These usually require pressure testing and professional evaluation.
3. Pool Lights
Older light fixtures or improperly sealed niches can allow water to escape through the conduit pipe.
4. Return Jets
If you see bubbles coming from the jets or hear gurgling noises, it might indicate suction-side leaks.
5. Tile Lines and Expansion Joints
Tiles and coping may crack over time. The expansion joint between the pool and deck is also a common point for hidden leaks.
When to Call a Professional Leak Detection Service
Sometimes, DIY methods just aren’t enough. So, how can I tell where my pool is leaking if nothing obvious shows up? That’s where specialists like Showtime Pools come in. We use:
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Electronic leak detection to pinpoint leaks without excavation
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Pressure testing of plumbing lines to confirm if pipes are compromised
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Dye testing around fittings, cracks, and fixtures to track water movement
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Acoustic listening devices for underground plumbing leaks
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Thermal imaging for hard-to-see areas
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across Toronto, the GTA, Durham Region, and Simcoe County find and repair pool leaks efficiently. With over 95 percent detection accuracy, our services help protect your investment and avoid structural damage.
Long-Term Damage of Ignoring Pool Leaks
If you delay pool leak detection, the consequences can be serious:
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Soil erosion under the pool, causing uneven settling or sinking
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Underground plumbing damage leading to costly pipe replacements
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Increased chemical demand, costing more in maintenance
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Foundation damage to nearby structures such as patios or sheds
Leaks that go unresolved for even one season can double the cost of repair. That’s why knowing how can I tell where my pool is leaking isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.
Seasonal Leak Risks in Ontario
With our unique climate, Ontario pool owners face seasonal challenges:
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Spring: Freeze-thaw cycles can crack fittings or expand small leaks.
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Summer: High temperatures increase evaporation, masking leaks.
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Fall: Falling leaves clog filters and skimmers, causing overflow or pressure issues.
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Winterization: Improper closing of pool lines can lead to cracks and pipe bursts.
Because of this, leak detection isn’t a one-time job. Regular inspection and professional servicing once per season can prevent emergencies.
Real Case Example: Pool Leak in Ajax
A recent client in Ajax contacted us after losing 2 inches of water every week. After performing a full electronic scan and pressure test, we discovered a small tear behind the pool light housing and a slow underground pipe leak. Both issues were resolved in a single service visit, saving the client from a complete deck excavation.
What Should You Do Next?
Now that you know the answer to how can I tell where my pool is leaking, the next step is simple:
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Perform the bucket test
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Inspect fittings and pool equipment
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Monitor for suspicious signs like bubbling or soggy ground
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Call a leak detection expert if you’re unsure
At Showtime Pools, we don’t just find leaks. We solve problems. Our team proudly serves Toronto, York Region, Durham, Simcoe, Peel, and Muskoka with precision and professionalism. With years of field-tested experience and advanced tools, we bring clarity and confidence to your pool maintenance routine.
If you’re still wondering how can I tell where my pool is leaking, get in touch. We’re ready to help restore your pool’s health before small leaks become big headaches.
Contact Showtime Pools Today
Need fast, reliable pool leak detection in your area?
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Call us at (289) 264-1250
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Email: info@poolleakdetection.com
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Visit: www.PoolLeakDetection.com
We look forward to helping you enjoy a stress-free swim season.