Why is My Inground Pool Losing Water?

If you've noticed that your inground pool is losing water, you're not alone. This is a common issue that pool owners face, and it can be caused by a variety of factors. Understanding why your pool is losing water is the first step in resolving the issue and ensuring your pool remains a safe and enjoyable space.

Before we dive into the possible reasons, it's important to note that a pool can naturally lose about 1/4 inch of water per day due to evaporation and splash-out. However, if you're losing more than this, it's time to investigate further. Let's explore some of the most common causes of inground pool water loss.

Evaporation and Splash-out

As mentioned earlier, evaporation and splash-out are normal causes of water loss in your pool. While these factors are inevitable, there are ways to minimize their impact.

Evaporation can be influenced by factors such as temperature, humidity, and wind. To reduce evaporation, you can use a pool cover when the pool is not in use. This not only helps to retain heat but also reduces water loss due to evaporation.

Splash-out

Splash-out occurs when water is splashed out of the pool during swimming or playing. This can be minimized by encouraging gentle swimming and discouraging rough play in the pool.

You can also install a splash-out guard on the pool's edge to catch water that would otherwise be splashed out. This can help to reduce water loss and keep your pool cleaner.

Leaks

Leaks are a common cause of water loss in inground pools. They can occur in various parts of the pool, from the plumbing to the pool shell itself.

If you suspect a leak, the first step is to perform a bucket test. This involves placing a bucket on the pool steps, with the top of the bucket level with the water line. Mark the water level on the inside of the bucket and the outside of the bucket. After a few days, compare the water levels. If the water level in the bucket is higher than the water level in the pool, you likely have a leak.

Pool Shell Leaks

Leaks in the pool shell can occur due to cracks or holes in the pool's surface. These can be caused by age, improper maintenance, or ground movement.

To identify a shell leak, you can perform a dye test. Add a few drops of food coloring to the pool water. If the color moves towards a specific area, you may have found the location of the leak. However, shell leaks can be difficult to repair and may require professional help.

Plumbing Leaks

Leaks in the pool's plumbing system can also cause water loss. These leaks can occur in the pipes themselves or in the fittings that connect the pipes.

Plumbing leaks can be more difficult to detect than shell leaks, as they often occur underground. If you suspect a plumbing leak, you may need to hire a professional pool leak detection service. These services use specialized equipment to locate the source of the leak.

Backwashing and Vacuuming

Backwashing and vacuuming your pool are essential maintenance tasks that can also contribute to water loss if not done correctly.

Backwashing involves reversing the flow of water through your pool's filter to clean it. If not done properly, backwashing can cause a significant amount of water to be wasted. To minimize water loss, ensure that you're only backwashing when necessary and that you're using the correct settings on your filter.

Vacuuming

Vacuuming your pool can also cause water loss if not done carefully. If the vacuum is not sealed properly, water can be sucked out of the pool as you vacuum.

To prevent this, ensure that the vacuum is properly sealed and that the vacuum hose is not kinked or damaged. You can also use a vacuum with a automatic shut-off feature, which will stop the vacuum when it detects a leak.

In conclusion, there are several reasons why your inground pool might be losing water. From evaporation and splash-out to leaks and improper maintenance, understanding the cause of the water loss is the first step in resolving the issue. If you're unable to identify and fix the problem yourself, don't hesitate to contact a professional pool maintenance service. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can help ensure that your pool remains a safe and enjoyable space for years to come.