How to Find Pool Leaks (DIY Leak Detection)
A fast, step-by-step process to isolate leaks in the shell, plumbing, or equipment. Learn the bucket test, dye testing, pressure checks, and how to triage returns, skimmer, main drain, and liner seams.
Confirm real water loss (Bucket Test)
Turn off features and auto-fill. Place a bucket on the top step with pool water matching the pool level. Mark both levels. After 24 hours, compare the drop. If the pool level fell more than the bucket, you have a leak.
Tip: Run the test once with pump off and once with pump on to hint shell vs. plumbing.
Isolate shell vs. plumbing
With the system off, plug returns and the skimmer using winter/expansion plugs. If loss slows, suspect plumbing (return/skimmer lines). If it continues, suspect shell/liner, fittings, lights, or main drain.
Level clue: If the water stabilizes just below a fitting height, that fitting is likely the source.
Dye test at suspect points
With still water, release a small stream of dye at seams, the skimmer throat, return fitting, light niche, steps, and visible liner wrinkles or tears. If dye is pulled in, you’ve found a path.
Liner focus: Check bead corners, ladder standoffs, and puckering where a vacuum set relaxed.
Pressure test lines (optional but recommended)
Cap returns/skimmer and use a low-pressure rig (≤20 PSI) to test each run independently. A steady pressure drop indicates a line leak. Use sound/section isolation to pinpoint.
Safety: Never exceed safe test pressure. If unsure, skip and call a pro.
Inspect equipment pad & fittings
Check around pump, filter, heater, chlorinator, and unions for damp ground, salt/scale trails, or air in the pump lid (suction-side leaks). Tighten/replace gaskets or unions as needed.
Check liner, seams & bead track
Walk the perimeter and floor for pinholes, seam splits, and bead slip. Feel for soft spots. For bead issues, re-seat and consider a small shim; for pinholes, plan a vinyl patch after confirming location.
Decision & next actions
Minor liner leaks can often be patched; gasket/fitting leaks need re-gasketing; plumbing leaks usually require sectional repair. If daily loss is heavy (≥1”/day) or pressure tests fail, schedule a professional leak check.
What You’ll Need for Leak Detection
- Bucket + waterproof tape/marker (bucket test marks)
- Measuring ruler/tape for 24-hr level comparison
- Food coloring or leak detection dye
- Winter/expansion plugs for skimmer and returns
- Duct tape and rags (temporary seals, cleanup)
- Pressure test gauge/rig (optional, ≤20 PSI)
- Flashlight; snorkel mask (optional for close inspections)
- Vinyl patch kit; gasket set + nut driver (if fittings/skimmer)