A swimming pool is a great asset for any home or property, but discovering a pool leak can quickly turn that dream into a source of frustration. If you suspect your pool is leaking, taking fast and strategic steps is critical to avoid structural damage, water waste, and increased operational costs. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what to do if a pool has a leak, how to detect the signs early, what tools and methods are used in leak detection, and when to contact professionals for repair.
At Showtime Pools, we specialize in Pool Leak Detection & Repair, serving residential and commercial properties across Toronto, GTA, York Region, Durham Region (Oshawa, Whitby, Pickering, Uxbridge, Ajax), Simcoe County, Peel Region, and Muskoka. Let’s walk through the most important steps if you’re dealing with a suspected pool leak.
1. Recognize the Early Warning Signs of a Pool Leak
Most pool leaks are slow and progressive. Identifying a leak early can save you thousands of liters of water and protect your pool system. Here are key signs that your pool may be leaking:
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Unusual water loss: If you’re losing more than 5 mm of water per day (without heavy usage or extreme heat), this may indicate a leak.
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Wet spots around the pool: Patches of constantly damp ground or eroded soil near the pool perimeter.
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Increased chemical use: If you’re adding chemicals more often, it could be because fresh water is diluting the balance.
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Air in the pool pump: Air bubbles in the return line could signal a suction-side leak.
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Cracks or gaps in the pool shell, tile, or decking.
If you notice even one of these indicators, it’s time to act. This is what to do if a pool has a leak before it becomes a costly issue.
2. Perform a Bucket Test
Before assuming the worst, rule out evaporation as the cause of water loss. The bucket test is a simple at-home method:
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Fill a bucket with pool water, about 1 inch from the top.
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Place it on the first or second step of your pool.
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Mark the water level inside the bucket and the pool water level outside.
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Wait 24 to 48 hours without using the pool.
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Compare both water levels.
If the pool water has dropped more than the bucket water, there’s likely a leak. This test gives you a baseline indication of abnormal water loss. Knowing what to do if a pool has a leak starts with ruling out natural factors like evaporation.
3. Check Pool Equipment and Plumbing
Leaks don’t always originate from the pool shell. Your filtration system, pump, heater, or return lines could be the source. Inspect the following:
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Pump housing and seals: Look for dripping water when the pump is running.
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Valves and joints: Loose or cracked fittings can leak under pressure.
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Filter drain plugs: These can become worn and leak slowly over time.
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Backwash line: Ensure the valve is completely closed and not letting water escape.
A professional pool leak detection service often uses pressure testing to isolate leaks in plumbing lines. Showtime Pools uses state-of-the-art tools to run these diagnostics with precision.
4. Inspect the Pool Surface
Vinyl, concrete, and fiberglass pools each present unique vulnerabilities:
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Vinyl liners: Prone to small tears or punctures, especially around steps or ladders.
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Concrete pools: May develop structural cracks, especially near the skimmer or return lines.
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Fiberglass pools: Often show spider cracks or seam separations.
Professional services like Showtime Pools use dye testing to find pinpoint leaks. This technique introduces a colored dye near suspected areas while the water is still. If the dye is pulled into a crack or hole, it indicates a leak.
5. Use Electronic Leak Detection Tools
For non-visible leaks, advanced tools are required. At Showtime Pools, we use:
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Electronic leak detection: Sends electrical signals through the water to locate breaks in conductivity, which helps identify even micro-leaks.
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Ultrasonic listening devices: Amplify leak sounds in pressurized pipes underground.
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Scuba diving inspections: For in-depth visual checks in hard-to-reach underwater areas.
These tools help reduce unnecessary damage during the inspection process and provide high accuracy in pinpointing the leak source.
Understanding what to do if a pool has a leak is about combining traditional observation with professional technology.
6. Don’t Ignore Small Leaks
Even a small leak of 1 mm per day can cause the loss of over 3,700 liters of water per month in an average-sized pool. Over a season, this leads to:
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Higher water bills
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Wasted pool chemicals
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Undetected erosion under decking
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Increased strain on pool equipment
Leaks also accelerate algae growth by disturbing water balance, and can compromise the structural integrity of the pool foundation. Acting early not only saves water but preserves your investment.
7. When to Call the Experts
If you’ve done basic testing and inspections without finding the problem, it’s time to involve professionals. At Showtime Pools, our trained specialists can:
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Accurately identify leak locations
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Conduct non-invasive leak testing
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Recommend reliable and lasting repair solutions
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Offer seasonal maintenance plans to prevent future leaks
We provide services throughout Toronto, the GTA, York Region, Durham (including Oshawa, Whitby, Pickering, Uxbridge, Ajax), Simcoe County, Peel Region, and Muskoka. Whether it’s a small liner puncture or a hidden underground pipe issue, we have the tools and training to resolve it efficiently.
8. Professional Repair Methods
Once a leak is located, repair methods vary based on the pool type and leak severity:
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Vinyl patch kits: For simple punctures, underwater patches can be applied.
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Epoxy sealing: Used in concrete pools for crack sealing and skimmer repair.
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Pipe replacements or re-routing: For underground leaks or severely damaged lines.
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Structural repair: Involves resurfacing or re-tiling in concrete or fiberglass pools.
Repairs can often be completed without draining the pool, depending on the situation.
9. How to Prevent Future Leaks
After addressing the current leak, take steps to prevent recurrence:
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Schedule annual pool inspections
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Monitor chemical balance regularly
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Avoid aggressive pool cleaning tools that can damage liners
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Ensure proper winterization
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Address small cracks or signs of wear immediately
Showtime Pools offers comprehensive seasonal inspection and leak prevention services tailored for your specific pool type.
10. Why Choose Showtime Pools
At Showtime Pools, we combine technical expertise with a customer-first approach. Here’s what sets us apart:
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Over 10 years of experience in leak detection and repair
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Coverage across major regions in Ontario including Toronto, GTA, and Muskoka
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Fast response time with advanced leak detection tools
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Skilled in servicing both residential and commercial pools
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Trusted reputation with satisfied clients across multiple regions
Knowing what to do if a pool has a leak is half the battle. Partnering with a trusted service provider ensures peace of mind and long-term savings.
Final Thoughts
A pool leak is not something to ignore. From water loss to equipment failure and structural damage, the consequences of delay can be significant. The good news is that modern tools and expert services make leak detection and repair faster and more effective than ever.
Remember, if you’re unsure what to do if a pool has a leak, the best step is to act early, investigate thoroughly, and seek professional help. Showtime Pools is here to guide you every step of the way, from diagnosis to repair and prevention.
Contact Showtime Pools Today
If you suspect your pool is leaking, contact us at:
Phone: (289) 264-1250
Email: info@poolleakdetection.com
Website: www.PoolLeakDetection.com
We proudly serve Toronto, GTA, York Region, Durham Region (Oshawa, Whitby, Pickering, Uxbridge, Ajax), Simcoe County, Peel Region, and Muskoka.
We’re ready to help you enjoy a leak-free pool season.