How to detect a water leak underground

If you've noticed your pool is losing water but can't seem to find the source, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with an underground leak. Leaks can be sneaky, especially when they occur beneath the pool’s surface or in the surrounding underground plumbing system. Detecting a water pool leak underground may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s possible to pinpoint the source quickly and efficiently.

At So Flo Leak Detection, we specialize in using advanced technology and professional expertise to identify and fix underground pool leaks. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to detect a pool leak underground and explain the most effective methods for locating and repairing leaks.

Signs of an Underground Pool Leak

Before diving into the detection process, it’s important to recognize the signs of a possible underground pool leak:

• Water Level Dropping: If your pool’s water level is dropping significantly—especially if it's more than an inch or two per day—it could indicate a leak. This is especially true if the loss continues even when the pool pump is turned off.

• Wet or Soggy Areas Around the Pool: A clear sign of an underground leak is water pooling or sodden spots around your pool deck or landscaping.

• Increased Water Bills: If you notice an unexpected spike in your water bill, it could be due to a hidden pool leak causing excessive water loss.

• Cracked Decking or Shifting Landscaping: Leaks can cause the soil beneath your pool to shift, leading to cracks in the pool deck or changes in the surrounding landscape.

If you're noticing any of these signs, it's time to consider professional pool leak detection.

Methods for Detecting an Underground Pool Leak

Detecting an underground pool leak is not always as simple as checking for visible cracks or wet spots. Some leaks are hidden deep within the pool's plumbing system or beneath the pool shell, requiring advanced techniques to locate them. Here are some of the most common methods used for underground leak detection:

1. Visual Inspection

The first step in detecting an underground pool leak is performing a visual inspection of the pool area. Look for any signs of water pooling around the pool or cracks in the pool shell. Check the skimmer and return jets for possible leaks or damage. However, visual inspections often only identify surface-level issues and may not detect leaks that are buried beneath the ground or inside the pool’s plumbing.

2. Bucket Test

The bucket test is a simple method to determine whether your pool is leaking or if the water loss is due to evaporation. To perform the bucket test:

• Fill a bucket with water and place it on the pool step or a similar stable location.

• Mark the water level both inside the bucket and on the pool’s wall.

• Let it sit for 24 to 48 hours, making sure the pool pump is turned off.

• If the water level inside the bucket drops at the same rate as the pool’s water level, you likely have a pool leak.

While the bucket test can confirm the presence of a leak, it doesn’t tell you where the leak is located. For that, you’ll need professional assistance.

3. Pressure Testing

Pressure testing is one of the most effective methods for detecting underground pool leaks, particularly those that occur in the plumbing system. In this process, technicians use a pressure gauge to measure the water pressure within the pool’s plumbing lines, including return lines, skimmer lines, and main drains. If there’s a drop in pressure in a specific section of the system, it indicates a leak in that area. Pressure testing can pinpoint leaks in the underground plumbing system without the need for extensive digging.

4. Dye Testing

For pools with suspected leaks in the plumbing or at fittings like the skimmer or return jets, dye testing is an effective method. In dye testing, a special colored dye is introduced to the area around the suspected leak. If the dye is drawn into the crack or leak, it confirms the exact location of the problem. This method works well for small leaks but may not be effective for larger or more complex underground leaks.

5. Sonar Leak Detection

One of the most advanced and precise methods for locating underground pool leaks is sonar leak detection. This technology uses sound waves to detect changes in water pressure and pinpoint the exact location of the leak. Sonar equipment is non-invasive and highly accurate, allowing technicians to locate leaks in underground plumbing, pool shells, and fountains with minimal disruption to the surrounding area. At So Flo Leak Detection, we use sonar technology to save you time, money, and the hassle of unnecessary digging.

6. Thermal Imaging

Thermal imaging uses infrared cameras to detect temperature changes in the ground or pool structure. Leaks often create temperature variations because the water escaping from pipes or the pool system is cooler than the surrounding soil or pool structure. By detecting these temperature differences, thermal imaging helps pinpoint the source of the leak, even if it’s deep underground.

Why You Should Call a Professional for Pool Leak Detection

While there are DIY methods available for detecting underground pool leaks, the most accurate and efficient way to find a leak is to call a professional. Here’s why:

• Expert Equipment: Professionals have access to specialized equipment, like sonar leak detection and thermal imaging, which can quickly and accurately locate leaks.

• Experience and Knowledge: A trained technician has the experience to properly diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action.

• Non-Invasive Methods: Advanced leak detection methods like sonar and pressure testing are non-invasive, reducing the need for costly and disruptive digging.

• Cost Savings: By identifying the exact location of the leak, professionals can fix the problem efficiently and avoid unnecessary repairs or replacement.

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Conclusion: Detecting and Fixing an Underground Pool Leak

If you suspect your pool has an underground leak, it’s crucial to act quickly. Pool leaks can lead to increased water bills, structural damage, and landscaping issues if left untreated. The sooner you detect and repair the leak, the less damage it will cause and the more money you’ll save.

At So Flo Leak Detection, we specialize in finding and fixing underground pool leaks using the latest technology. Our team of experts is equipped to handle any leak, no matter how complex, and we pride ourselves on providing fast, efficient, and reliable service. If you suspect a leak, don’t wait—contact So Flo Leak Detection today to schedule an inspection!

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