Question 1

How much water loss is normal in a swimming pool?

Accepted Answer

Normal water loss depends on temperature, wind, humidity, pool exposure and how much the pool is used. A small daily drop may be evaporation, especially in hot or windy weather, but a consistent or sudden drop should be investigated. If the water level falls quickly overnight, falls below fittings, or requires constant topping up, it is safer to treat it as a possible leak rather than assuming evaporation.

Question 2

How can I tell the difference between evaporation and a leak?

Accepted Answer

Evaporation normally changes with weather conditions and affects most exposed pools in a similar way. A leak is more consistent and may continue even during cooler weather. Warning signs include water dropping to a certain level and then stopping, air entering the pump, wet paving, soft soil, recurring algae from dilution, or a water bill that increases without another explanation. Professional testing is the reliable way to separate evaporation from a true leak.

Question 3

Why is my pool losing water overnight?

Accepted Answer

A pool that loses noticeable water overnight is less likely to be losing water only through evaporation. Overnight loss often points to a structural leak, leaking fitting, suction leak, return pipe leak, light niche issue, weir defect, crack, porous marblelite or fibreglass pinholes. The correct approach is to test the shell and plumbing separately so the repair does not target the wrong area.

Question 4

Why does my pool lose water when the pump is running?

Accepted Answer

Water loss that becomes worse while the pump is running often points to the pressure side of the circulation system. This can include return pipes, aimflow fittings, valves, filter connections or pipework under paving. When the system is under pressure, water can be forced out through a crack or failed joint. Pressure testing helps confirm whether the line is holding or losing pressure.

Question 5

Why does my pool lose water when the pump is switched off?

Accepted Answer

If the pool loses water while the pump is off, the leak may be in the shell, light, weir, main drain, crack, porous surface or a pipe section that remains water-filled without pump pressure. Dye testing around fittings and structural defects is often useful because dye may be pulled directly into an active leak path.

Question 6

Can a pool leak only at a certain water level?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A pool may drop until it reaches the level of the leak and then slow down or stop. This often happens with leaks at lights, weirs, return jets, tile lines, cracks or surface defects. The stopping level is an important clue because it tells the technician which fittings and areas require closer dye testing.

Question 7

Can a swimming pool leak underground?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Underground suction and return lines can leak due to failed joints, ground movement, age, poor installation, root movement or previous repairs. These leaks are usually not visible from the surface and may only show as wet soil, sinking paving, air in the pump or unexplained water loss. Pressure testing and tracer gas can help narrow down the underground failure point.

Question 8

Do all underground leaks require excavation?

Accepted Answer

No. Excavation should only be done after testing narrows down the likely leak area. Opening paving or concrete before testing can waste money and create unnecessary damage. The correct method is to isolate the affected line, confirm pressure loss, locate the likely section and then open only where there is evidence to justify it.

Question 9

What is pressure testing?

Accepted Answer

Pressure testing is the process of isolating pool pipework and testing whether each line holds pressure. Suction and return lines are normally tested separately where access allows. If pressure drops, it indicates a leak or failed seal in that section. Pressure testing is one of the most important methods for distinguishing plumbing leaks from shell or fitting leaks.

Question 10

What pressure is used during pool pipe testing?

Accepted Answer

The pressure used depends on the pool system, pipe condition and the test setup. The purpose is not to over-stress old plumbing, but to establish whether a line can hold a controlled test pressure. A responsible technician will test carefully, monitor pressure stability and interpret the result together with symptoms and visual evidence.

Question 11

What is dye testing?

Accepted Answer

Dye testing uses coloured dye near suspected leak points such as lights, weirs, aimflow jets, cracks, steps, mosaics and surface defects. If the dye is pulled into an opening, it indicates active water movement through that point. Dye testing is useful for visible or accessible leaks, but it must be done carefully with the water calm and circulation off.

Question 12

What is tracer gas leak detection?

Accepted Answer

Tracer gas leak detection uses a safe gas mixture introduced into an isolated pipe line. If the pipe has a leak, gas can escape through the break and migrate through the ground. A sensitive detector is then used above the surface to help identify the most likely leak area. It is especially useful for underground pipe leaks where excavation should be minimised.

Question 13

Is tracer gas safe for swimming pool leak detection?

Accepted Answer

Tracer gas used for leak detection is generally selected because it is safe when handled correctly by trained technicians. It is used inside isolated pipework, not as a chemical treatment for the pool water. The purpose is to locate escaping gas from a hidden pipe defect, reducing unnecessary digging.

Question 14

How accurate is tracer gas detection?

Accepted Answer

Tracer gas can be very effective, but accuracy depends on soil type, paving, wind, pipe depth, water saturation, access and whether the leaking line can be properly isolated. It should be treated as part of a diagnostic process, not magic. The best results come when tracer gas is combined with pressure testing, site inspection and symptom analysis.

Question 15

Can a suction line leak cause air bubbles?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A suction-side leak can pull air into the plumbing while the pump is running. This may show as bubbles in the pump basket, air returning through the aimflow jets, loss of prime or poor circulation. Suction leaks can also stress the pump, so they should not be ignored.

Question 16

Why is my pool pump losing prime?

Accepted Answer

A pump that loses prime may be dealing with a suction leak, low water level, blocked weir basket, faulty lid seal, damaged pump union, cracked suction pipe or air entering through valves. If the issue continues after basic maintenance checks, suction-side leak testing is recommended.

Question 17

Can a leaking pool pipe damage the pump?

Accepted Answer

Indirectly, yes. A suction leak can cause air ingress, cavitation and poor flow. A return leak can reduce circulation efficiency and waste water. Running a pump with air in the system or insufficient flow can shorten equipment life and increase repair costs.

Question 18

Can pool leaks cause paving to sink?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Water escaping underground can wash away fine material, soften soil and undermine paving or coping. Over time, this may lead to movement, hollow areas, cracks or settlement around the pool. This is one reason leaks should be detected early.

Question 19

Can pool leaks affect foundations or retaining walls?

Accepted Answer

Large or long-term leaks can saturate soil and contribute to movement around structures, especially where drainage is poor or the property has reactive soils. Not every leak causes structural damage, but persistent water loss near walls, foundations, paving or retaining structures should be treated seriously.

Question 20

Can a pool leak be a dolomite risk?

Accepted Answer

In dolomitic areas, uncontrolled water loss can be more serious because water ingress into the ground may increase subsidence risk. Properties in parts of Gauteng, especially around Centurion and surrounding areas, should not ignore persistent pool leaks. A professional report may also help document the condition and recommended repairs.

Question 21

Can marblelite become porous and leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes. marblelite can wear down, crack, become porous or develop openings over time. Once the surface reaches the end of its service life, water may move through multiple small defects rather than one obvious hole. In those cases, patching one spot may not solve the overall water loss.

Question 22

How do I know if marblelite is finished?

Accepted Answer

Signs include rough texture, exposed aggregate, hollow or weak areas, stains, cracks, flaking, visible openings and recurring water loss through the shell. If dye is drawn through several surface defects, a full resurfacing recommendation may be more practical than repeated patch repairs.

Question 23

Can fibreglass pools leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Fibreglass pools can leak through pinholes, cracks, poor joints, delaminated areas, damaged fittings or failed previous repairs. Small defects may be difficult to see without close inspection. Where defects are widespread, full relining or resurfacing may be better than isolated patching.

Question 24

What are fibreglass pinholes?

Accepted Answer

Pinholes are tiny openings in the fibreglass surface that can allow water to pass through. One pinhole may seem minor, but multiple pinholes can create ongoing water loss. They often require careful surface preparation and correct fibreglass repair methods.

Question 25

What is fibreglass delamination?

Accepted Answer

Delamination happens when layers of fibreglass separate from the substrate or from each other. It may present as bubbles, soft spots, hollow sounds, cracks or loose sections. Delaminated fibreglass can trap water and often needs proper repair before coating or relining.

Question 26

Can pool lights leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Pool lights are common leak points because the niche, conduit, cable gland or surrounding seal can fail. Dye testing around the light can show whether water is being drawn into the fitting or conduit. Light leaks should be repaired correctly because temporary sealants often fail again.

Question 27

Can aimflow jets leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Aimflow jets and return fittings can leak around the fitting body, pipe connection or surrounding pool surface. If the leak is active, dye may be pulled into the joint. If the pipe behind the fitting is damaged, pressure testing may also show loss on the return line.

Question 28

Can a weir or skimmer leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Weirs and skimmers often leak where the plastic body joins the pool shell, where cracks develop, or where pipe connections fail. Water dropping to the weir level is a common clue. Repair may involve sealing, structural repair, pipe repair or replacement depending on the defect.

Question 29

Can a pool crack leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Cracks can leak if they pass through the waterproof structure or connect to a void behind the pool shell. Some cracks are cosmetic, while others are active leak paths. Dye testing and structural assessment help determine whether the crack requires local repair, stitching, fibreglass lining or more extensive renovation.

Question 30

Can soil movement cause pool leaks?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Ground movement can stress pipe joints, pool shells, paving and fittings. This is common where drainage is poor, soil is unstable, or previous repairs were not properly compacted. Movement-related leaks should be diagnosed carefully because simply sealing the visible crack may not address the underlying cause.

Question 31

Can tree roots damage pool pipes?

Accepted Answer

Tree roots can contribute to pipe displacement, joint stress and movement around underground services. Roots usually exploit weak points rather than cutting through strong pipe by themselves, but older or poorly installed plumbing is more vulnerable.

Question 32

Do you need to drain the pool for leak detection?

Accepted Answer

Usually no. Many leak detection procedures require the pool to contain water because the water level, pressure and dye movement help identify the leak. Draining a pool unnecessarily can create other risks, especially in certain ground conditions. If draining is required for a repair, that should be planned separately.

Question 33

How long does pool leak detection take?

Accepted Answer

Many residential leak detections can be completed within a few hours, but timing depends on access, pool size, number of lines, equipment layout and whether multiple leaks are present. Complex cases, commercial pools and estate facilities may require more time and staged testing.

Question 34

Can there be more than one leak?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A pool can have both plumbing and structural leaks at the same time. For example, a return pipe may fail while old marblelite also leaks through surface defects. This is why a process of elimination is important and why fixing one confirmed leak does not automatically guarantee there are no other leaks.

Question 35

Can a leak be found without breaking paving?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Testing can usually be done before any breaking. Pressure testing, dye testing and tracer gas can narrow the suspected area first. If excavation is required, it should be targeted and based on evidence rather than guesswork.

Question 36

Do all leaks require pipe replacement?

Accepted Answer

No. Some leaks are at fittings, lights, weirs, cracks or surface defects. Some pipe leaks can be repaired locally if the damaged section is accessible and the rest of the line is sound. Full replacement is usually considered where pipework is badly routed, brittle, repeatedly failing or not practical to repair locally.

Question 37

When should pool pipes be replaced instead of repaired?

Accepted Answer

Replacement may be recommended where pipes are old, brittle, poorly installed, leaking in multiple places, inaccessible for reliable local repair, or where previous repairs have failed. The decision should be based on test results, site conditions and long-term reliability, not just the cheapest immediate patch.

Question 38

Can pool leaks be repaired permanently?

Accepted Answer

Many leaks can be repaired long term if the correct cause is identified and the repair method matches the defect. However, old surfaces, unstable ground, poor previous work or multiple hidden leaks can complicate guarantees. A proper diagnosis gives the best chance of repairing the correct problem first.

Question 39

Should I choose fibreglass lining or Re-marblelite?

Accepted Answer

The better option depends on the pool structure, existing surface, leak pattern, budget and expected lifespan. Re-marblelite restores a traditional plaster finish, while fibreglass lining can provide a continuous waterproof lining when installed correctly. If the existing marblelite is porous and leaking in many places, fibreglass may be recommended as a stronger waterproofing solution.

Question 40

Can a leaking light be repaired without replacing the whole pool surface?

Accepted Answer

Often yes, if the defect is limited to the light niche, conduit or surrounding seal. However, if the pool surface around the light is weak, cracked or porous, a local repair may not be enough. The inspection should determine whether the light is the only leak or one of several leak points.

Question 41

Can a leaking weir be repaired?

Accepted Answer

Many weir leaks can be repaired, but the method depends on whether the leak is at the shell joint, the weir body, the throat, the pipe connection or surrounding structure. Severe cracking or movement may require more than surface sealing.

Question 42

Can aimflow jets be replaced?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Aimflow fittings can often be replaced or resealed, but the pipe connection behind the fitting must also be considered. If the return line itself is leaking, replacing only the front fitting may not solve the water loss.

Question 43

What happens if I ignore a pool leak?

Accepted Answer

Ignoring a leak can waste thousands of litres of water, increase chemical costs, raise municipal bills, damage paving, undermine soil, stress pumps and allow small defects to become larger repairs. Early detection is usually cheaper than waiting until the damage becomes visible.

Question 44

Why are repairs quoted separately from detection?

Accepted Answer

Detection and repair are separate because the repair scope depends on the confirmed cause. Quoting a hidden repair before testing often leads to incorrect pricing or unnecessary work. Once the leak source is identified, the repair can be quoted properly with a defined scope.

Question 45

How much does pool leak detection cost?

Accepted Answer

Cost depends on location, pool size, complexity, access, number of lines, equipment required and whether travel is involved. A simple residential detection in Gauteng will usually be priced differently from a large estate, commercial pool or out-of-province callout. The best approach is to provide the address, symptoms, photos and videos so the correct fee can be confirmed.

Question 46

Why are charges outside Gauteng higher?

Accepted Answer

Pool Leak Detection Pros is based in Gauteng. Work outside Gauteng usually involves additional travel time, fuel, tolls, scheduling time and sometimes accommodation depending on the location. For that reason, charges in Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, Free State and Northern Cape are generally higher than Gauteng charges.

Question 47

Do you provide insurance reports?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Reports can be prepared to explain the inspection scope, test methods, findings, likely cause and recommended repairs. Where available, photos, videos and pressure testing observations can be included. The report helps the client present technical information to the insurer, although final claim decisions remain with the insurer.

Question 48

Do insurance companies pay for pool leaks?

Accepted Answer

Insurance cover depends on the policy wording, cause of damage, exclusions, maintenance history and insurer assessment. Some policies may consider sudden pipe failures, while gradual deterioration, wear and tear or old surface failure may be excluded. A technical report helps clarify what was found but does not guarantee claim approval.

Question 49

Do body corporates and estates need leak reports?

Accepted Answer

Body corporates, estates and managing agents often require written reports because decisions must be documented and approved. Reports help trustees, owners and managers understand whether the leak is plumbing-related, structural, surface-related or connected to equipment.

Question 50

Can commercial pools be tested?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Commercial and estate pools can be tested, but they may require more planning because of pool size, multiple pipe runs, plant rooms, balance tanks, heating systems or public access requirements. Testing may need to be scheduled to reduce disruption and comply with site rules.

Question 51

What information should I send before booking?

Accepted Answer

Send the property location, pool photos, pump and filter photos, a short video of the water level or symptoms, how much water is being lost, whether the pump is running when loss occurs, and any recent repairs. This helps determine the likely testing method and whether special equipment or additional time may be required.

Question 52

Can you quote a repair from photos only?

Accepted Answer

Photos and videos can help, but hidden leaks cannot always be quoted accurately without inspection. A photo may show where water appears, but not necessarily where the pipe or structural failure actually is. Repairs should be quoted after the leak source is confirmed, unless the damage is fully visible and straightforward.

Question 53

Why is process of elimination important?

Accepted Answer

Swimming pools have several possible leak paths: suction lines, return lines, lights, weirs, cracks, fittings, surface defects and equipment. Process of elimination prevents unnecessary repairs by testing each likely area and ruling out what is holding properly. This produces a more defensible recommendation.

Question 54

Can fixing one leak reveal another?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If a pool had multiple leaks, the largest leak may hide smaller leaks. Once the major leak is repaired, remaining water loss may become easier to detect. This is common on older pools, badly deteriorated marblelite, delaminated fibreglass or plumbing systems with multiple weak points.

Question 55

Is a pool leak urgent?

Accepted Answer

A minor leak may not be an emergency, but persistent or heavy water loss should be treated as urgent because of water waste, pump risk, ground saturation and possible structural consequences. If the pool is losing water rapidly, the pump should not be allowed to run dry.

Question 56

Why choose a specialist instead of guessing?

Accepted Answer

Guessing often leads to unnecessary digging, repeated patching and money spent on the wrong repair. A specialist uses testing methods to separate plumbing leaks from structural leaks, surface failure and fitting leaks. That evidence-based approach is usually cheaper and more reliable in the long run.

Pool Water Loss FAQs

Pool Water Loss FAQs

Why act early

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Is it a leak or evaporation?

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