Leak Detection/Diving

Occasionally pools leak.  And it can happen to any pool regardless of the type of construction.  However, most leaks can be found relatively easily.

We have been assisting customers in the Jackson, MS area to find swimming pool leaks for over 30 years.  In our experience, the following self-performed test is of great value in the leak detection process.  The purpose of the test is to help identify where to start looking for the leak, thus saving time, labor and money.

We call it: The 24-Hr On/Off Test                

Here’s how it works:

1. Fill the pool to its proper level.
2. Place a mark at the pool water level.
3. Leave the pump running for 24 hours.
4. Measure how much water was lost during the previous 24-hour period while the pump was running.
5. Next, refill the pool to its proper level.
6. Place a mark at the pool water level.
7. Cut the pump off for 24 hours.
8. Measure how much water was lost during the previous 24-hour period while the pump was off.
9. Compare the amounts of water lost over the previous two 24-hour periods.

What the Results Mean

• If the water loss was the same, or virtually the same, with the pump running and with the pump off, then the leak is most likely in the “body of water.” The body of water includes the entire surface of the pool, whether vinyl, gunite, or fiberglass.  It also includes the skimmers, light housing, main drain housing and any face-plates. This leak is usually easy to locate.

What we suggest:  Set up a DIVE.         

Using dive equipment, a diver will check out the entire body of  water for leaks.  Most leaks are found within the first hour and can be repaired quickly and easily. Contact us for more details.

• If the water loss is more significant with the pump running, then the leak is usually in one of two places:

               1) the plumbing that is returning water to the pool or

               2) a ruptured gasket in the filter allowing water to leak out the backwash line.

The return plumbing would include any lines having water pressure such as standard return lines or automatic cleaner lines.  The filter gasket is located in the selector valve or multiport valve of the filter.

• If the water lass is more significant with the pump off, then the leak could be in suction lines of the pool. This plumbing includes the skimmer and main drain lines.  This type of leak is the usually the hardest to verify and locate.

What we suggest:  Set up a SERVICE CALL. 

First we will check out the filter valve and backwash line.  If we find a ruptured gasket it can be repaired easily.  Second, we will pressure test your return lines and/or suction lines.  The goal will be to locate and isolate the leak.  Once found, an estimate of repair will be given.  Contact us for more details.

(Disclaimer: The above instructions and results are for pools in which the filtering system is above the water level of the pool.  If the filtering system is below water level, results could vary and additional steps may be needed to determine leak location.  Moreover, no two pools are ever plumbed the same.  Thus, while the above instructions may work for the majority of pools, we do realize that not all leaks can be found using this method.)

If you would like to set up a dive, service call or consultation, please call

601-932-POOL (7665) or click here to fill out an online service request.