If you’ve noticed your pool’s water level dropping, you may be wondering whether it’s a normal part of pool ownership or a sign of a leak. While all swimming pools lose some water over time, excessive water loss can indicate a problem that should be addressed before it leads to costly repairs.
Most pools lose about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of water per day due to natural evaporation. During hot Texas summers, water loss may be slightly higher because of high temperatures, low humidity, strong winds, and increased pool use. Features such as waterfalls, fountains, and spas can also increase evaporation.
However, if you’re adding water every few days or your pool is losing more than 1/2 inch per day, it’s a good idea to investigate further. A leaking pool can waste thousands of gallons of water each year while increasing your utility bills and potentially causing damage to your pool’s structure, plumbing, or surrounding landscape.
One simple way to determine whether your pool has a leak is by performing a bucket test. Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on a pool step so the water level inside the bucket matches the pool’s water level. After 24 hours, compare the two levels. If the pool’s water level has dropped significantly more than the water inside the bucket, a leak may be present rather than normal evaporation.
Although the bucket test can help confirm excessive water loss, it won’t identify the source of the leak. Professional pool leak detection uses specialized equipment to locate leaks in plumbing lines, skimmers, pool lights, returns, and structural components without unnecessary digging.
Knowing what’s considered normal water loss can help you catch problems early. If your pool is losing water faster than expected, scheduling a professional leak inspection can save water, reduce repair costs, and keep your pool in excellent condition for years to come.
If you suspect your pool is losing more water than normal, scheduling a professional leak inspection from Poolside Leak Detection & Restoration Co. can help identify the issue early and keep your pool in excellent condition year-round. Call us at (210) 772-8840.
