| |
|
"Leaking Pool Problems"
It can happen, in spite of proper maintenance.
The Pool & Spa Informational Website
askalanaquestion.com |
Considerations & Solutions in stopping
a pool leak
|
Scroll down to browse
through some archived SWIMMING POOL questions and answers.
Please access the Pool Problems Page and other links, at the top of
every page, for additional information.
|
Swimming
pools can develop leaks as the result of routine wear and tear, carelessness,
accidents or the effects of
wintertime conditions. Not all
loss of water can be attributed to a pool leak. Losses, due to evaporation,
splash out or backwashing, are normal and are expected. Excessive water
loss, more than 1/4"-1/2" daily, should definitely be investigated. Products are
available to help determine if there is a pool leak, where the leak is located and to
help seal the leak. There are companies that specialize in pool leak detection
and repair.
Clicking
on the underlined and highlighted
"keywords" or "catch phrases," in the archived answers will
give you access to additional information on that topic or product.
Please refer to the Glossary, if
there are terms or phrases that require explanation.
For an alphabetized listing
of the entire contents of the website, use the
Table of Contents link, on top of
every page.

( Click the picture, for more
information. )
► Made The New York
Times?
I have a sinking feeling that
my inground pool has been losing water and mentioned it to a pool-owning-friend.
He mentioned that there was an article about repairing a leak in a swimming
pool, in the real estate section of the New York Times, around the end of July.
Unfortunately, he did not keep the article and that weeks Times is off to the
recycling plant. If possible, could you shed some light on what it said?
George N., Roslyn, NY 8/11/2007
Basically, it went through some of the options. First make sure you have a
leak and that the loss is not simply evaporation. This can be done with
the bucket test. Place a 5-gallon plastic pail, on the first or second
step, so that it is just a few inches above the water level, after being filled.
Adjust the height, inside the bucket, to that of the pool and mark the level,
both inside and outside. After 24 hours check. If the pool level is
lower than the bucket level, you have a leak, that amounts to this difference.
This technique cancels out the effect of evaporation. Where is the leak?
If the return flow is aerated, most likely the leak is in the suction line.
This type of leak stops, when the pump is running. You could plug up the
skimmers, returns and main drain and see if the leak stops. If it stops,
the leak is in the lines. If not, it is elsewhere. Rather than
simply digging up all the lines, until the leak is found, call in a
leak detection
professional. They use
special equipment to help locate the leak and simplify the repair.
You could try using a concentrated dye solution to help detect a flow due to a
leak. Divers can be used to hunt for a leak, using a dye solution.
Different types of leaks and pools require different detection techniques and a
leak professional may be the best way to approach the problem, especially when
the water loss is more than 2 inches a day. For more information on leak
detection professionals go to:
www.poolleak.info The
article mentioned that a pool owner can try to fix the leak themselves, simply
by adding
Fix A Leak.
This product has been around for nearly thirty years and is worth trying, if the
daily water loss is under two inches. For more information go to:
www.fixaleak.com I hope that this
information is helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 8/12/2007
► Measuring The Pool Leak?
I have a 30,000 gal inground
pool. I just got a new liner a filter and pump installed last week. I had got
pressure testing done on my 1 return and 2 sections lines before this job as the
pool is old that was normal. Now I am losing about 1/2 an inch of water every
day , I also see a air bubble out of the return every 15 seconds or so when the
filter is off. Could you please guide me in the correct direction as to what
needs to be done. Is it certain that I have a leak? Thanks.
Gary, 7/15/2008
A 1/2" a day
is about what you would expect to lose, if the pool was in hot, direct Sun and in
a breezy, dry area. I suspect that you do have a leak, but the loss, is
partially du e to evaporation. If you would like to confirm the extent of the
leak do this: place a plastic bucket with water on the top step of the pool,
adjust the water level to that of the pool and mark the height of the water
level, both in the bucket and in the pool. The next day determine the water
loss in the pool and in the bucket. The loss in the bucket is due to
evaporation. If the pool lost more, that portion is due to a leak.
Usually, leaks in the suction lines show up as air leaks (aerated return flow),
when the pump is running. If water is leaking out, air should not be bubbling
in. This would also apply to the main drain line. I would check all of the
seals, gaskets, o-rings and connections. There are dye solutions that can
help you trace a leak. There are companies that specialize in
leak detection.
And there is
Fix A Leak:
a product that make a long-lasting seal small leaks. I hope that this information proves helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 7/16/2008
► Locating
A Pool Leak?
What is the easiest way to
locate a
leak in an above ground pool?
Kathleen B., 8/7/2009
There are products for leak
detection. Your local pool supply retailer should carry a product like
Anderson's
LeakMaster Pre-Filled Dye Testers. The dye is put
into a still pool, near places that may be leaking, such as light fixtures,
returns, drains, skimmers and any visible cracks. If there is a leak,
near the place where the dye is dripped, the dye will be sucked out at the
point of the leak. Depending upon the type and location of the leak,
it may be possible to add a leak sealer to the appropriate location. A
leak sealer product, such as
FIX A LEAK
can create a long-lasting seal in walls, floors or the filtration system.
Many times, a leak is either hard to find or massive enough, where
do-it-yourself techniques may not be enough. There are companies that specialize in
leak detection, using
sound detection and other equipment or techniques. You can search a free
directory of leak experts, in your area, at
www.poolleak.info. Good luck and I hope that the information will prove helpful.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 8/7/2009
► Pool Liner Leak?
I have noticed that I must have a leak in
my liner. How do I find this? Is there something I can put in the water
that goes to the spot? I have an above ground pool 24' round. I would
appreciate any suggestions.
Lisa J., 5/26/2005
You should
try locating the leak with a leak-locating dye.
Products like
Anderson's LeakMaster
Pre-Filled Dye Testers are available at local pool supply
retailers. The dye is put into a still pool, near places that may be
leaking
If there is a leak, the dye will be sucked out at the point of the leak. Are you certain that the liner is the problem? Make
sure, by checking all the lines and connections. If you allow the pool to
leak, when the water reaches
the level of the leak, it will stop. This can help you pinpoint the
location the location.
Once you locate the
hole in the liner, repair is simple.
Boxer Adhesives
offers a line of underwater patches and repair kits
that you can use to make a
lasting repair.
If you can't locate the liner leak, a
leak detection company,
such as Anderson Manufacturing, might be the next
step.
For more information and for dealer location information go to:
www.poolleak.info They are designed to be applied under the water, so draining the pool will not
be necessary. I hope that this information helps to solve the problem.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 5/26/2005
► Can't Find the Pool Leak?
I am losing more than 1/2" daily
from an above ground pool. The leak has to on the floor, but I can't find
it. I have tried diving down and using a dye. I did have some
pinhole from ants, but all have been patched. Any suggestions.
Bob G., NJ, 7/23/2005
Possibly, there
are some that are too small to be seen or are hidden from plain sight.
Adding
Fix A Leak can help seal these tiny
pinholes. After being adding to the pool, the product should find its way
to the pinhole. The seal can be very long lasting. Care should be taken to
avoid vacuuming for at least two weeks. Otherwise, the pressure could suck
out the material making the seal. Eventually, it will thoroughly cure and
harden. If the leak is persistent and other methods fail, consider
contacting a swimming pool leak professional. Leak experts, in your area,
will use modern technology to find and fix your leak and can help avoid major
damage and costly water loss. Search for a leak expert, in your area at:
www.poolleak.info I hope that this information proves helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 7/23/2005
► Geothermal
System Leak?
Has anyone used fix a
leak in a closed loop geothermal system that has a leak? Please let me
know. Thanks.
Bob G., 1/10/2010
Yes, Fix A Leak has been used for more than 10 years, in the geothermal
application. It is used a bit differently, but seems to work wonders,
according to some testimonials.
For more information: click here. I
hope that this will prove to be the solution, as it has many times over.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 1/13/2010
► Hydrostatic Pressure Relief
Valve At Work?
Great website. I have a concrete pool about 20x40
and 10-12' at deep end. It is plaster lined and plaster is about 10 years old.
I have not had any issues with leaking. I recently drained the pool to do an
acid wash and noticed a strange occurrence in that the pool fills itself back up
by about 6 inches in 24 hours. This is only down in the deep end and I have
pumped it out twice to have it fill back up both times. Would you guess this is
groundwater coming in? If so, then should I be worrying about a leak even if I
have not had a previous issue? Thanks for any thoughts or comforting words.
Michael T., Boston, MA 12/4/2005
Good news. You have a
hydrostatic pressure relief valve. It is meant to prevent a pool from
popping up, when drained. In your case, the ground water level is higher
than the pool floor and the valve is opening to relieve the pressure.
When you're ready to fill, remove as much as possible and start filling.
Once the water level, in the pool, is higher than the ground water, the
valve will close. Adding a couple of bottles of a metal treatment, as the
pool fills, might help prevent staining problems. I hope that this
puts your mind at ease.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 12/5/2008
► Main Drain Leak?
I found your site on a search on Google and
while I was searching for tips on fixing leak in the drain at the bottom
the pool. Is there a way that I can do this myself or do I have to have
outside help, you think? I appreciate any help you can offer.
Thank You.
Fred, 2/14/2005
A main drain repair can be
a big deal or a very big deal. It all depends on the problem and
where it is located.
Fix A Leak
can be used to seal the leak, if it is not too large and it not subject
to expansion. If it works, great! If not, you should
consider hiring a
pool leak expert.
Major leaks can cause extensive damage to your pool, if left for too
long. Go to
www.poolleak.info, if you need
to find a pool leak expert in your area. Good luck
and I hope that I have been helpful.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 2/14/2005
►
Possible Main Drain Leak?
My pool has been losing water over the winter
months. I have been adding water to help prevent the cover from
falling in. I feel sure that the main drain is involved. Is
there anything I can do before springtime? Thanks for the help.
Brett S., Coram, NY, 12/4/2005
Adding
Fix A Leak
might just do the trick. To give the product a better chance of
actually reaching the main drain area, you could pour the product down a
length of 2" poly pipe. The product is much heavier than water and
will sink down through the pipe. Just direct it close to the main
drain. As the water leaks out, the product should find it way to
the site. The repair could be very long-lasting! Look for the
water losses to slow or stop, as a positive sign. If the leak
fails to stop, it may be due to a cracked pipe and might need to be
located and replaced. A professional leak detection service
will use modern techniques to locate your leak and be able to perform
the necessary repairs. You can find a qualified pool leak expert,
in your area, at:
www.poolleak.info Good luck.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 12/4/2005
One
Of The Products Featured In The Website Stores
 |
Adhesive Borders
Alarms, Pool & Yard
Aquatic Access Lifts
Aquatic Bike & Treadmill
Aquatic Fitness
Aquatic Training
Cartridge Cleaner
Circulation Booster
Clarifiers, Pool & Spa
ColorQ
Digital Testers
Cracks, Structural Repairs
Deck Sweepers
Electronic Test
Labs
Escape Ramp, Animal
Epoxy Coatings
Great, Must-Have Gadget
Leak Sealer
Magnetic Conditioner
Metals Removal
Misting Systems,
Cooling
Paint, Hybrid-Epoxy |
|
Pool Auto-Leveler
Pool Decals
Pre-Filters, Well Water
Robotic Pool
Cleaners
Salt Chlorinator, AGP
Salt
Testers
Sealer for Leaks
Solar Heaters
Spa Cover Spray Protectant
Spa Cover Lifter
Spa-Side Accessories
Stain Treatments
Surface Skimmers
Skimmer Escape Cover
Test
Strips, Pool & Spa
Water Testing
Supplies
Underwater Lights
Vacuums, Automatic
Vacuums, Hand-Held
Water Brooms |
 |
Click The Image For More
Product & Ordering Information. |
|
► Water Line
Problems In
A Vinyl
Pool?
I have an
above ground pool and I have noticed 3 small tears in the lining at the water
level. I patched them, but I am kind of concerned about avoiding trouble
before it occurs. I believe it is due to age and a lot of snow this winter
in NH. I was thinking of getting a new liner, but other than these tears
and wear at the water line, it seems to be fine. I stumbled upon your site
and found BorderLines and I was wondering, if this is just a cosmetic fix or
would it also strengthen the liner at the water line and stop any leaks from
occurring? The pool is about 8 years old. Thanks.
Barry D., NH, 7/27/2008
The
problems that you are experiencing are the result of UV degradation, from
the
Sun's
UV rays. These problems are usually worse on the sunny side of the pool.
If you patch
the existing
damage and apply
BorderLines around the pool, it will
not only strengthen the existing liner, but will shield it from further
damage for UV light. The product is warranted, by the manufacturer, for 3
seasons, at which time, it can be peeled off and another set applied, if you
wanted to extend the liner's life even further.
BorderLines will strengthen and cover up a faded or stained waterline area
and create a whole new look. It can be used, equally well, on all sizes and
shapes or vinyl liner above or inground pools. I hope that this
information proves helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster. 7/8/2008
► Probable Pool Liner Leak?
I need to ask a question about my pool. I had a
new liner put in two years ago because ants had gone under the pool liner. It
is an above ground pool. I replaced the filter and chlorinator this past
fall. So far the only thing not replaced has been the pump. I just
lifted the tarp and the water level has gone down a lot since November. How can
I tell if there is a leak? I cannot get too much help for my husband is 76
and medicine is taking a toll on my wages at work. I need to know a simple way
to maybe detect it myself. Please advise me if you can. Thank you.
Maggie, Charleston, SC, 3/4/2005
This
does sound like a leak, as water loss should have been relatively small, unless
t he winter cover was not effectively sealing the pool. The only source of
a leak would be the liner and is probably small. If there are no signs of
puddling, the leak is probably on the pool floor.
I suggest that
you mark the current water level and seal the pool. Check again in a few
weeks. If the water level is still dropping, the level is at or below the
current height. If the water level did not drop, the leak is at the
current level. There are leak detecting dye
solutions that can be dropped into a still pool and can help pinpoint the source
of the leak; allowing you to use a
vinyl repair kit to repair the liner.
The Boxer Adhesives line of repair products can even be used underwater, if
necessary. If these efforts do not locate the leak, you might have to
bring in a
leak detection specialist. Good luck and I hope that this information proves helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 3/5/2005
► Suction Line Leak?
I have an air leak on the
suction side of my inground pool. I was wondering if the Marlig leak sealer is
appropriate. As I have two skimmers , I have been able to turn off one suction
side and isolate it. I only need to add enough Fix A Leak to treat 70 feet of 1-1/2” i.d. line. I have the ability to pressurize this line to help force the
sealant to the hole. Is there any benefit to this? Thank you.
Denny M., 5/16/2006
Fix A Leak
should work well to seal this kind of leak. By pass the filter and pour the
product into the skimmer, where the suspect line attaches. Pressurizing
the line can help. The leaking water needs to carry the product to the damaged spot.
I hope that this will prove helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
5/16/2006
► Standing Water Level?
We have a 10 year old inground
pool with steel walls and a vinyl liner. The liner was replaced about 4 years
ago. We currently lose about 2-3 inches of water every 2-3 days and have water
that stands in the yard all through the summer. When prepping the pool for
winter I allowed the leak to continue without adding water for several days.
The water level receded below the skimmers, jets and continued for another
couple of inches then stopped. I looked around the liner but could not find a
hole. It also appears that the water level in the yard is resting at the same
level of the pool water level. In the winter, the water in the yard dries up.
I have suspected a leak in the main drain that stops once the water in the pool
is even with the water level in the yard - possible? Any thoughts or
suggestions?
Scott H.,
Kentucky, 5/16/2006
Possible? Yes.
If it is as you described and the return flow is not aerated, the leak
should be in the main drain line or in the return lines, at the height where the
leaking stops. If the return flow is aerated, the leak is in the suction lines and at the level of the standing water.
Fix A Leak might help, as it can
permanently seal a leak as big as 1/8" in diameter. The water loss
indicates a sizable leak and you might consider a
leak detection service.
Anderson Manufactures makes high tech equipment to help locate a leak. For
more information and for dealer locator information go to:
www.poolleak.info This will help minimize the damage to the surrounding area. I hope that this information is helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 5/16/2006
► Salt Loss = Water Loss?
I live in Florida, I have a
11000 gal. concrete pool/spa with a spill over. Temps. have been 60's
at night, 75-80 during the day. I lose about 1/2 in. of water a day. The
pool was installed 12/01/08. 80 lbs of salt was added Feb. 1st. and
another 40 lbs. on March 20th. The pool installers have checked for leaks
and only found a small leak in the skimmer. They have returned to
check again and state there are no leaks and the water loss of 3 in. a week
is normal and the salt addition is normal as well. Everything I read on
line states otherwise, as does the local pool company where I have my water
tested. I have done the bucket test in the pool and informed installers of
the difference of 1/4 inch. I noticed that the spa when the pump is
turned off stays at the spill over level for several hours but by morning is
down about 1 in. They said they checked the spa as well. What is the
average salt loss? what is your opinion. Thank you.
Kathe, Florida, 3/27/2009
A loss of 3 inches a weeks seems excessive, at this time of the year.
Besides the bucket test shows a 1/4" loss and that seems to explain the salt
loss and the excessive weekly loss of water. You have a small leak and
the proof is the salt additions. The only way salt is lost is through pump
outs, backwashing or splash outs. 120 pounds of salt suggests a
loss 4-6000 gallons of water, if the salt additions were really necessary
and based on accurate testing. For salt testing, I recommended the
PockeTester, as it is simple to use
and accurate. There are dye solutions that can help you trace a leak.
A drop or two can be added to a still pool, near possible sites of a leak,
and can help trace the way to the location, as the water leaks out.
Anderson
Manufacturing has an easy to use dye
solution. They specialize in leak detection and have a directory of local
leak detection experts.
Fix A Leak
is a product that can permanently seal leaks as big as 1/8" in diameter. It
works in gunite, fiberglass or vinyl pools and in the plumbing, as well.
Easy to use and will not require that the pool be drained. I hope that
this information proves helpful
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 3/28/2009
► Possible Leaking Fiberglass Steps Gasket??
I have a pool leak that I think is at the recessed fiberglass stair set gasket. The water has gone down to a point on the lower step below all the through wall fittings. It has been happening for some time but I've never let it go this far before. There is nothing below this except the main drain. But the water seems to have stabilized at this point. I don't see damage to the vinyl liner and have checked it before. I want to caulk the gasket and want to know what you would suggest. I don't think I can remove and replace the gasket because it will pull away from the stairway seam. I was thinking 3M5200 marine caulk? I'm not sure if it is safe for use with a vinyl liner? The other option is the leak fix that you guys advertise. I don't really want to use a two part epoxy putty. The pool is not running but I could circulate the water us a submersible pump. Or you say it can be applied directly to the area of concern. Any suggestions?
Thanks John B., 5/13/2010
Fix A Leak could work, but you will need to fill the pool up. Once full, you can apply the product with a mustard/ketchup type of dispenser and slowly introduce the product around the gasket. Hopefully, as water leaks out, it will draw in the product. Afterwards, add the balance to the pool. Set the system on full main drain and recirculate, with the filter bypassed. Occasionally, stir the bottom. Give it a few days or until the leak stops. Once the leak stops, you can use the filter to remove the excess Fix A Leak. A dye solution, dripped into a still pool can help locate the leak. Silicone caulk is a viable solution. I would not expect there to be any damage to the vinyl. I hope that this information will be helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/13/2010
► Rapid Water Loss?
I just helped a buddy open his pool in NJ.
Removed plugs from return lines, added our chemicals etc. We started the
process 5 days ago and yesterday his pool DRAINED OUT in a matter of
hours! He has no cracks in the gunite. Maybe his drain is
broken, but somebody mentioned to him that a hydrostatic plug may be to
blame. DID I DO SOMETHING WRONG TO HIS POOL? Don't even know what one is.
Could something get stuck in it and drain it out? Why would it NOT be
solely connected to the line back to the pump. Why would it be set up to
also drain into the earth? Thank you.
Dave S., Parsippany, NJ, 5/11/2006
This valve is meant to protect the pool from popping
up, if the ground water level gets too much higher than the pool level.
It is not connected to the filter system. If ground water is too high,
water may enter the pool, but water should not leak out. Possibly, the
valve opened inappropriately. If the water table is high, the pool might
not drain completely. The valve/drain might need to be replaced.
More likely, there could be a major break in the main drain line.
This is a serious problem. The main drain can be sealed off, but
circulation will suffer and not having a hydrostatic pressure relief valve
could allow the pool to pop up. As a means of improving circulation, you
could add a
robotic pool cleaner, which will
act as a moving main drain. Otherwise, repairing the main drain line
will require excavation. No, this was not your fault!
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 5/12/2006
► Leaking Inflated
Ring Pool?
I have a 15' inflated ring
above ground pool. I am quite sure that I have a leak in the bottom floor,
since there is water coming out from under (not very much). My question is
there a product that is safe to use on these type of pools? Will it damage
the plastic liner/bottom? Your advice will be appreciated.
Karla H., 6/4/2005
P.S. WOW! This website is fantastic, your advice is so helpful, thank you!
This type of pool is made of
thin walled vinyl. What you need to do is locate the leak. You can do
this by adding a few drops of a concentrated dye solution (some dealers carry
such a product) into a still pool. No filter running and no people! The dye
should trace its way to the leak. Once you know where the leak it you can make
a repair.
Boxer Adhesives
has just the product. Patches or tapes that are made to be used with thin vinyl
pools and can be used underwater. Don't use a solvent based repair product, as
it can severely damage this thin vinyl. For more information on these patches
and tapes go to:
www.boxeradhesives.com
I hope that this information proves to be
helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 6/4/2005
► Reversing The Flow?
I want to use the Fix a leak
product. I have a small leak in my suction line (or I suspect). I don't
understand the instructions that say to "reverse the flow of water at 5 or 10
psi". How is this accomplished? How do I reverse the flow of water
so my out-take becomes my intake, etc? Thanks for your help.
Tim J., 3/15/2008
When air gets
sucked in, while the pump is running, it is necessary to reverse the flow.
This helps the
Fix A Leak
exit the site of the leak and produce a seal. To reverse the flow, you
must switch the hoses going in and out of the pump. Water will enter through
the returns and exit through the skimmers. Make sure the filter is bypassed.
After the leak has stopped, you can restore the system. Good luck and I
hope that this information has been useful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 3/15/2008
► Stains And A Leaky
Pool?
I was elated to find your site. We have a
12X24 concrete pool not quite 5 years old. We live in central Florida. My
first question is related to the stains we are experiencing. They began as
small light and dark grayish swirls in one small section of our pool. We went
to our local pool supply store and they recommended a metal stain remover. It
did nothing and since the stains are growing! They now cover most of the pool
floor.
My second question is related to a possible
leak. We seem to be losing about an inch of water per day. We thought it was
due to the recent cold temperatures at night. However, it still seems like an
awful lot of water to evaporate overnight. I've scanned the side tiles for
leaks and used food coloring to determine if there were any leaks but nothing
appeared. How can we determine if there may be a leak elsewhere, lines, etc?
Also, what is the average amount of water loss we should be experiencing?
Thanks very much for anticipated help.
Kathleen, Florida, 3/27/2004
Adding a metal
treatment doesn't always work. You might have to lower the pH to
approximately 6.0. Try this. Put about 1/2 pound of pH reducer
powder in a white sock and drop onto a stained area. Leave in place for 15
minutes and then move around with the vacuum pole. If it works, the
problem is definitely a metal. You can repeat elsewhere or use a stain
removing accessory to siphon an acid solution onto the stains. Once
removed, add another dose of the metal treatment. Thereafter, add monthly
or whenever new water is added. Refer to the archives on "Pool Staining
Problems" for more on the subject.
Finding a leak
isn't always simple. One inch per day is likely to be a leak.
Average water loss depends upon temperature, exposure, wind speed and other
variables. A loss of 1/4"-1/2" per day would be more realistic. The
leak could be in the main drain line or the skimmer lines. A leak in the
return line, could create aeration in the pool, but not necessarily a leak.
Try this. If you would like to confirm the extent of the
leak do this: place a plastic bucket with water on the top step of the pool,
adjust the water level to that of the pool and mark the height of the water
level, both in the bucket and in the pool. The next day determine the water
loss in the pool and in the bucket. The loss in the bucket is due to
evaporation. If the pool lost more, that portion is due to a leak. Close off the skimmer
lines at the multiport valve and plug up the skimmer intakes. If you are
still losing water, the leak is not in the skimmer lines. If it stops, the
leak is in the skimmer line. While there are companies that specialize in
leak detection, you might want to consider using
FIX-A-LEAK.
Used as directed, this product can make long lasting seals, in
leaks in the plumbing and even the walls, as large as 1/8" in diameter. It
is not overly expensive and could solve the problem. Good luck and I hope
that I have been helpful Let me know how it works out!
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 3/27/2004
► A Small Pool Leak At
Best?
I have a 14 x 28 inground
kidney shape cement pool and the pool loses about a 0.25 inch of water daily. I
bought the house last year and had all the cement in the pool redone. The
pool was built in 1975 and there is a ground drain at the bottom. The
piping runs to my garage, where the pump, filter and heater are. The heater
is very old: 1977, the pump is new and so is the filter. Do you think the
cap at the bottom may be loose, so water is draining out? Let me know what
you think.
Mike M., 1/31/2005
A loss of
0.25" per day is not conclusively a leak.
Given normal evaporation and splash out loses, that
amount may be within normal expectations. Such a leak would be quite
small. Any leak is
somewhere below the level of the water and given the slowness, might take a
considerable time to reach the level. If you would like to confirm the extent of the
leak do this: place a plastic bucket with water on the top step of the pool,
adjust the water level to that of the pool and mark the height of the water
level, both in the bucket and in the pool. The next day determine the water
loss in the pool and in the bucket. The loss in the bucket is due to
evaporation. If the pool lost more, that portion is due to a leak. There are dye solutions that might help
locate the leak.
Fix A Leak might be able to seal the
leak. For more information on this product, go to
www.fixaleak.com
If there is a leak and you fail in your efforts to seal or locate it, you should
consider calling in a
leak detection professional.
For more information, on the service and dealer locations, go to:
www.poolleak.info Good luck and I hope that I have helped point you in the right direction.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 1/31/2005
► Dealing With An
Inflated Pool Air
Leak?.
I have one of those pools with
an inflatable top ring. Seems to have a leak and I am slowly losing air.
Any suggestions about locating the leak and fixing it? I appreciate your
time and effort.
Aimee, New Jersey 5/22/2005
Look for signs
of bubbling, where the ring is covered with water. That will indicate the
location. If you don't see bubbling, the leak is above the water level.
Get some swimming pool algaecide that contains dimethyl ammonium chloride.
Make a solution of one part algaecide and 3 parts water and stir it up with a
1-2" brush so that it lathers a bit. They use a technique like this to
find a leak in a tire. You don't want
to use soap, because you don't want it to end up in the pool water. Brush
it on the seams and other areas, until you find the leak. Once found,
clean the area with rubbing alcohol and allow to dry off.
With this type of thin walled pool, you cannot use a
traditional vinyl adhesive and patch, as this can damage the vinyl.
Boxer Adhesives offers a complete line of
vinyl
repair products, including an adhesive patch that is intended to be
used with pools just like yours. Visit them at
www.boxeradhesives.com
for more information. If necessary, it can even be used under water!
I hope that this information will prove helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 5/22/2005
► Leaking Fountain?
I have a fountain with a large
base and some hairline cracks. I have called everyone I know including the dumb
manufacturer and no one has a clue about stopping any such leaks. I have a
friend in another city who used your product on a hot tub with great success.
So, since no one around here (St. George, Utah) seems to carry this product, how
do I get a small jug?? Thanks.
H. K., St George, Utah,
8/30/2008
Fix A Leak
should work
well, in
this
application.
To order the
product,
visit the
Website
Store.
They used it
to seal a
leaking 400
year old
slate roof
in England
and saved
$250,000.
This one
should be
simple!
After the
seal is
made, you
should
consider
painting or
sealing.
This will
help avoid
freeze-thaw
cracks.
Ultra Poly
One Coat
is a
hybrid-epoxy
coating and
might be the
perfect
paint, for
this
application.
I hope that
this
information
is helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan
Schuster,
8/30/2008
► Finding A Pool Leak?
Alan, I have a pool that is leaking as much as three inches a day, and I'm
confused about where the leak is located. I thought the multiport valve
might be leaking into the backwash while in normal filtration position. After
five hours of filtration the pool lost about 1/2 inch of water. The valve is
very old and I thought this may be the cause of the leak. Then I did a
drain down without running the filter. After two days the water level dropped to
the base of the skimmer opening and stopped. However, when the water level is
where it should be I can still vacuum. So, I'm not convinced that the
skimmer has a suction leak. Any advice you could give would be
appreciated. Thank you.
Stuart S., Boulder City, Nevada 3/15/2003
It would have been helpful to
know what kind of pool this is: above ground or inground, gunite or
vinyl. The problem is not the multiport valve because there would be
evidence of water seepage that would be conclusive. My guess is that this
is an inground pool: an above ground pool would have exposed lines and a leak is easier to
find. The fact that the water level dropped to the skimmer base, means
that the leak is due to a bad seal in the skimmer, a crack in the skimmer, a bad
line connection at the skimmer or leak in the line from the skimmer to the
filter. A leak in the return line would produce a lot of aeration, when
the filter is in operation. The leak could also be from another point at
the height of the skimmer base.
I suggest that you do the following:
Fill the pool up to the normal level and shut off the filter. Find a
leak-detecting dye solution at a local pool professional store. Basically,
it will direct you to drop some dye, into the still water, and look for evidence
of a water flow. If there are steps, underwater lights or other
through the wall items, you will have to check these as well. Sometimes,
leaks are in inaccessible location such as underground lines. Frequently,
it is possible to add a
leak sealer compound
to the pool or intakes and create a long-lasting repair, without costly excavations.
FIX
A LEAK has been used for this purpose with proven results. Look
for the product at a pool professional. In addition, there are
companies that specialize in
leak detection, using specialized detection equipment, if your efforts prove
unsuccessful. I hope that I have been helpful and good luck.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 3/15/2003
► Winter Cover Leak?
I noticed that the water was
accumulating as winter neared on top of the winter cover. It froze near
the top and then I noticed weekly it kept getting lower & lower. I am now
trying to remove the water from the cover (this is an inground pool with a drain
at the bottom) but as I take water from the top, it keeps lowering with inside
the pool. I stopped taking water off (still have Lots more to go) and the
winter cover is about 2 to 2-1/2 feet in the pool. It appeared when I
stopped for the night and checked in the morning, the water level in the pool
was still at the same level. Does this mean there is a leak in the pool. I
closed with water level about 12 inches from the top, blew out all jets and
sealed them. Do I continue to take all the water off the cover and check
for leaks within the pool? Right now it looks like about 3 feet form the
top of water is gone. It's a 19X32 kidney shaped inground. Liner is only 2-3
years old.
EJ, 3/31/2006
It appears to
simply be a leak in the cover. You're pumping the water off the cover and
it is coming from the pool. I suggest that you get as much of the debris
off with a leave rack and then remove the cover. Try and find the hole and
use a patch to make the repair. Boxer adhesives has the right product.
Good luck with the clean up.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 3/31/2006
► Where To Buy Fix A
Leak Locally?
Hi Alan. Where can I buy
the Fix A Leak product in the St. Louis, Missouri area? Thanks for the
help.
Norm M., St. Louis, MO,
10/25/2004
For local
dealer availability, call 905 374-2560. They might be able to
provide you with the necessary information. Because their sales are mostly
through distributors servicing the pool retailers and service companies, they
might not have a location name available. You can order it conveniently
online, from this website:
Click Here. For product information go to:
www.fixaleak.com
It can be
ordered from this
website and will ship within 24 hours. I hope the information helps solve the problem.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 10/25/2004
►
Leaking At Return Fittings?
We have an inground pool in
Cape Coral FL. I replaced the pump recently. I just fixed a new leak on
the solar panel and now find that I am also losing water at the returns on
the pool wall. The dye gets sucked in at both returns when the pump is
off. Most likely cause and fix? Thanks.
Chet B., Cape Coral, FL, 5/14/2008
Something loose or
cracked? If you see the dye getting sucked in, you might solve the
problem with
Fix A Leak.
Put some product into a squeeze bottle (like something used with condiments)
and slowly squeeze product around the return. Pump off! The Fix A Leak
will get sucked in and should make a seal. Confirm with the dye. If the
leak stopped, leave off the pump for two days, in order to allow the product
to cure. Clean or backwash filter after running for two days. I hope that
this information is helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 5/14/2008
►
Cracked Skimmer?
I noticed my pool skimmer has a slight crack in it and I was losing water all
last year. Is there some type of adhesive I can use to seal this crack or do I
need to replace the whole skimmer?
K. F., 5/19/2005
Boxer
Adhesives makes a line of repair kits and patches that you can use, including a
skimmer repair kit.
I hope that
this information will prove to be useful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/19/2006
► Pool Water Level?
Alan, I have a 25,000 gallon gunite inground
pool. I recently bought the house and I am trying to figure out the water
level. I have a skimmer and a main drain. Lately, when the pool pump turns
on the morning it seems like the pool skimmer is pulling water faster than the
water entering the skimmer can fill the basket. It eventually regulates it
self or if I play around with the Float Valve assembly. Ironically, on two
occasions I have added water for about 3 minutes and the skimmer flow regulates
itself ( I would not think adding water for 3 minutes would add enough water to
correct a low water level). It seems like the pool may have a low water
level. I am worried I have a leak. p.s. The water level going into the
skimmer is about an 1 inch over the entry to the skimmer. Thanks.
Jay N., 10/6/2003
I don't know
if you have a leak. Your water level might just be borderline and should
be raised to the middle of the skimmers. Place a piece of tape at the water line. If you
are losing more that 1/4-1/2" per day there is a possibility of a leak.
Factors such as exposure, water and air temperatures, wind speed, humidity, etc.
can affect water loss. The ideal water level is to the middle of the
skimmer. When adding water you can add to this point or slightly higher.
When removing excess water, lower the level to about 1" below the top of the
skimmer. Current rainfall patterns should be considered. The " Float
Valve Assembly" is called a weir and it is supposed to operate with a flapping
action. This helps to remove the floating debris. I don't think that
you really have a problem with the weir. I hope that I have been helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 10/7/2003
► Water Loss During
Filtration?
I just found your website for
the first time and I think that I will be visiting a lot more in the future.
This site is great for a new pool owner like myself. I have a sand filter with
an in ground pool. Whenever I use filtration, my water level in the pool drops
considerably. I found that the water is coming out of the pipe used during
backwash. What is causing this and how do I fix the problem? Thanks
Joel, Douglas, GA, 3/6/2005
This sounds
like the multiport valve is not completely set on filter. This is the
valve, near the filter, that helps you select from, filter, waste, backwash or
recirculate. If it is set correctly, it may need servicing or replacement,
as freeze-thaw damage may have occurred. The rest is up to you. Good
luck and I hope that this information will prove helpful.
Sincerely.
Alan Schuster, 3/7/2005
►
Air Bubbles?
Alan: After opening our
pool this spring, I have noticed bubbles coming out of the pool jets the entire
time the pump is running. We have a 30,000 gal pool on a sand filter. Is the
problem due to some sort of leak in my system? The pool is equipped with an
ionizer. Thanks.
Tommy, 5/15/2003
You
mentioned that you have an ionizer and that should rule out the possibility
of an algaecide causing the pool water foaming. It would not be unusual for this
problem to occur, after the springtime pool opening.
I suspect that there
is an air leak in the suction side lines - somewhere between the skimmer and the
pump. Check all the connections. Good luck and I hope that I
have been helpful.
Sincerely. Alan
Schuster, 5/15/2003
|
Proper water chemistry will help to better control and avoid corrosion
problems and maintain more optimum swimming conditions.
More information about Pool/Spa Water Testing Products can be found in the
Test Equipment Store. |
(Click the image for more
information and ordering details.)
▲ Return To Top Of Page
▲
Thank you for visiting
AskAlanAQuestion.Com. If you found the website helpful, please
tell your
friends and dealers. If not, please tell us. Your suggestions are
appreciated.
Aqualab Systems.,
Inc. does not make any warranty or representation, either expressed or implied, regarding
the accuracy or completeness of the information provided by this website; nor does Aqualab
Systems., Inc. assume any liability of any kind whatsoever related to, or resulting from,
any use or reliance on this information. The content of this website
should not be used, if it is conflict with any applicable federal, state or
local regulations or guidelines.
©,
2002-10,
A.S., Inc. All rights reserved.
|
|
|