Pool Leaks Are More Than Just a Nuisance
Most pool owners assume a little water loss is normal — and they’re right. Between evaporation, splashing, and backwashing, your pool will naturally lose some water. But when that loss becomes excessive, you might be dealing with something far more serious: a pool leak.
A leak isn’t just about adding more water every few days. It can silently waste hundreds of gallons a day, raise your water bill, upset your pool’s chemical balance, damage surrounding structures, and even put your pool’s entire integrity at risk.
At Savol Pools, we’ve been helping Connecticut pool owners detect and repair leaks for over 80 years. In this guide, we’ll help you recognize the early warning signs, understand the true cost of ignoring a leak, and know when it’s time to call in the professionals.
How to Tell if Your Pool is Leaking
If you suspect a leak, the sooner you act, the better. Here are the most common red flags:
Unexplained Water Loss
The average pool loses about ¼ inch of water per day due to evaporation. If you’re losing more than that — especially in cooler, less sunny weather — you could have a leak.
DIY Tip: Try the bucket test.
Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on your pool steps so the water levels inside and outside the bucket are the same. Mark both levels with tape. Wait 24 hours without swimming or adding water. If the pool water level drops more than the water inside the bucket, you likely have a leak.
Soggy Spots Around the Pool
Water escaping underground will saturate soil, creating wet or muddy patches even in dry weather. This can also cause settling or sinkholes that compromise the pool deck.
Rising Water Bills
Even a small leak can waste hundreds of gallons per day. That means your water bill — and possibly your sewer bill — can climb dramatically without you realizing why.
Cracks in the Pool or Deck
Shifting soil caused by leaks can lead to hairline cracks in your pool shell, tiles, or deck. These may be both a cause and a symptom of leaks.
Frequent Chemical Adjustments
If your pool’s chlorine or pH levels are constantly off, a leak might be a contributing factor, making maintenance more expensive and time-consuming.
The True Cost of Ignoring a Leak
Many pool owners put off leak repairs, thinking the problem is minor. Unfortunately, what starts as a small leak can quickly turn into a costly nightmare.
Wasted Water & Higher Utility Bills
A leak that loses one inch per day in a 20’ x 40’ pool can waste over 14,000 gallons in a single month. That’s bad for your wallet and bad for the environment — especially in areas where water conservation is a concern.
Structural Damage
Leaks can erode the soil beneath and around your pool. Over time, this undermines the foundation, leading to cracks, sagging, and even total structural failure. Repairing these issues is far more expensive than fixing the leak early.
Equipment Wear & Tear
When water levels drop, pumps and filters may run dry or work harder than intended, causing premature failure. Replacing major pool equipment can cost thousands.
Landscaping & Hardscaping Damage
Excess moisture from underground leaks can damage patios, retaining walls, and landscaping — sometimes even affecting nearby structures like sheds or garages.
Insurance Complications
Many homeowner policies expect prompt maintenance. If you delay repairs and the leak causes major damage, your insurance provider may deny part or all of your claim.
How Savol Pools Detects & Fixes Leaks
Some leaks are obvious. Others hide in plumbing lines, skimmer throats, or beneath pool liners where they can’t be seen. That’s where professional leak detection comes in.
At Savol Pools, we use advanced tools and time-tested techniques to locate leaks accurately without unnecessary excavation.
Our Leak Detection Process
Visual & Structural Inspection
We start by examining your pool shell, liner, tiles, coping, and decking for visible cracks or separations.
Dye Testing
We use special leak-detection dye to see where water is being pulled out of the pool.
Pressure Testing
If we suspect a plumbing leak, we use pressure testing to pinpoint the location in underground lines.
Electronic Listening Devices
These specialized tools detect the sound of water escaping, even beneath concrete and soil.
Scuba Inspections
For deeper or harder-to-reach leaks, our certified divers can inspect your pool from the inside.
Our Leak Repair Services
Once we find the problem, we can repair it quickly — often on the same day. Common repairs include:
- Skimmer throat sealing or replacement
- Vinyl liner patching
- Crack injection and resurfacing
- Underground plumbing repair
- Tile line regrouting
Preventing Future Leaks
While not every leak can be prevented, good pool care reduces the risk.
Proactive Tips:
- Schedule annual inspections — We can catch small problems before they become major.
- Maintain proper water chemistry — Balanced water prevents corrosion and material degradation.
- Address small cracks promptly — Even tiny cracks can grow quickly.
- Keep your pool equipment in good condition — Properly functioning pumps and filters reduce stress on your pool structure.
Don’t Let a Small Leak Turn Into a Big Problem
Pool leaks rarely fix themselves — they only get worse with time. Whether you’re seeing soggy spots, unexplained water loss, or just suspect something’s wrong, acting quickly can save you thousands.
Savol Pools is Connecticut’s trusted name in pool leak detection and repair. Our experienced technicians have the tools, training, and know-how to find leaks fast and fix them right — keeping your pool safe, efficient, and ready for swimming.
Call Savol Pools today or contact us online to schedule a professional leak inspection. Protect your investment and enjoy a worry-free pool season.