Losing Water? Here’s How to Tell If It’s Normal
If you’ve noticed your pool water level dropping, you may be wondering if it’s simply due to the summer heat or if you have a hidden leak.
During New Jersey’s hot summer months, some water loss is completely normal. However, excessive water loss can indicate a leak that may lead to higher water bills, equipment damage, and costly repairs if ignored.
Here’s how to tell the difference.
How Much Pool Water Loss Is Normal?
Most pools naturally lose about ¼ to ½ inch of water per day during hot weather because of:
- High temperatures
- Direct sunlight
- Wind
- Low humidity
- Heavy pool use
If your pool is losing significantly more than this, it’s time to investigate further.
Signs Your Pool May Have a Leak
Watch for these warning signs:
- You constantly need to add water.
- Wet or soggy areas around the pool.
- Air bubbles coming from the return jets.
- Cracks in the pool deck or shell.
- Your water bill has increased.
- The pool loses water even when it’s not being used.
If you notice several of these signs, a professional leak inspection is recommended.
The Bucket Test: A Simple Way to Check
A quick way to determine if you’re dealing with evaporation or a leak is the bucket test.
Step 1
Fill a bucket with pool water.
Step 2
Place it on the pool step so the water inside the bucket is level with the pool water.
Step 3
Mark both water levels.
Step 4
Wait 24 hours without adding water.
If the pool water drops significantly more than the water inside the bucket, your pool may leak.
Common Places Pool Leaks Occur
Leaks often develop in:
- Pool plumbing
- Pump connections
- Filter fittings
- Skimmers
- Main drains
- Return lines
- Pool lights
- Cracks in the shell
Finding the exact location usually requires professional leak detection equipment.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Leak
Even a small leak can cause:
- Higher water bills
- Chemical waste
- Soil erosion around the pool
- Equipment damage
- Structural problems over time
Repairing a leak early is almost always less expensive than waiting.
When to Call a Professional
You should schedule a professional inspection if:
- You’re adding water every few days.
- The bucket test suggests a leak.
- You see wet areas around the pool.
- Your equipment is leaking.
- Water levels continue to drop unexpectedly.
Professional leak detection can pinpoint the problem without unnecessary digging or guesswork.
Professional Pool Leak Detection in New Jersey
Fresh Pool Service provides professional pool leak detection and repair throughout New Jersey.
Our experienced technicians inspect:
- Plumbing lines
- Pool equipment
- Pumps and filters
- Skimmers
- Return lines
- Pool structures
We proudly serve:
- Bergen County
- Passaic County
- Morris County
- New Milford and surrounding communities
If you’re losing water faster than normal, we’ll identify the cause and recommend the right repair solution.
Schedule a Pool Leak Inspection Today
Don’t let a small leak turn into a costly repair.
If your pool water level keeps dropping, Fresh Pool Service can quickly determine whether it’s normal evaporation or a hidden leak.
Contact us today to schedule a professional pool leak inspection in New Jersey.