Pool leak
detection

Accurate, non-invasive pool leak detection, with expert pool
repairs across Cape Town

Residential & commercial pools • 3-year workmanship guarantee

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Call 021 200 5887

Registered with IPA and NSPI

Pool leak detection & repair specialists

Precision, experience, and complete pool leak solutions you can trust.

Losing water from your swimming pool isn’t just inconvenient – it can lead to rising water bills, structural damage, and costly repairs if left unresolved.

At Core Plumbing & Leak Detection, we specialise in accurately locating pool leaks using advanced, non-invasive technology. Our experienced technicians identify the exact source of leaks quickly and efficiently, allowing repairs to be carried out in a targeted and practical way, with minimal unnecessary disruption.

We don’t just find leaks – we repair them.

Our repair services include

Did you know?

A leak as small as 3mm can waste up to 12,000 litres of water per day, significantly increasing costs and risking long-term damage.

Complete pool leak repair solutions

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Pipe repairs

We carry out targeted pipe repairs using both traditional replacement methods and modern pipe relining solutions where suitable, ensuring long-lasting results with minimal disruption.

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Fitting and equipment repairs

We repair or replace faulty skimmers, return jets, pool lights, and related fittings. Our technicians are experienced in diagnosing and repairing a wide range of pool equipment issues efficiently.

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Waterproofing solutions

We apply proven waterproofing systems to prevent future leaks and protect your pool structure. All solutions are designed to be durable, effective, and completed using high-quality materials and modern repair techniques.

Where required, we work with trusted specialist partners to ensure repairs are completed to the highest professional standard. All repairs are carried out professionally and backed by a 3-year workmanship guarantee.

Why pool owners choose us

We focus on accurate pool leak detection, professional expertise, and a smooth end-to-end process.

Advanced Leak Detection

State-of-the-art pool leak detection equipment for accurate results.

Expert Full-Service Team

Our highly skilled technicians handle everything from leak detection to repair – saving you time and hassle.

All Pool Types & Fast Response

We service all pool types and respond quickly to minimise water loss and prevent further damage.

Trusted by pool owners across Cape Town

See what our clients have to say about our pool leak detection and repair services.

Our pool leak detection methods

Identifying pool leaks early is key to protecting your pool and avoiding unnecessary repair costs. We use a combination of proven professional techniques to accurately locate leaks.

Water and air pressure testing

We assess the integrity of your pool’s plumbing by isolating and pressurising the pipes. Any pressure loss indicates a leak, making this method ideal for identifying issues in underground pipework.

LeakTrac 2400 – Electronic lining leak detection

This advanced electronic system locates leaks in fibreglass and lined pools by tracking electrical current flow toward breaches in the lining, without the need to drain the pool.

Infrared thermal imaging

Specialised thermal cameras detect temperature variations caused by moisture, ideal for locating leaks behind pool walls, beneath decks, or in restricted areas.

Tracer gas detection

A safe, inert gas is introduced into the plumbing system and detected using specialised sensors. This allows us to accurately locate concealed leaks beneath paving, concrete, or decking.

Dye testing

A simple and effective method where dye is introduced near suspected areas. If a leak is present, the dye is drawn toward it, visually confirming the leak location.

Camera inspections

A specialised camera is inserted into the plumbing system to visually inspect pipes for cracks, damage, or faulty fittings contributing to water loss.

Acoustic and hydrophone correlation

Acoustic and hydrophone correlation uses advanced listening equipment to analyse and match sound signals from escaping water or air. This allows us to accurately confirm the location of leaks, especially in complex pool systems or concealed areas.

Clear answers, no guesswork

Every inspection includes a detailed leak detection report outlining our findings, test results, images, clear repair recommendations, and a repair quotation where applicable.

View sample report 1

View sample report 2

View sample report 3

Signs you may have a pool leak

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Rapid or unexplained water loss

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Sudden increase in water bills

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Wet, soggy, or sinking areas around the pool

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Cracks in tiles, coping, or pool shell

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Persistent algae problems

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Air bubbles in the pump or return lines

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Leaking pool equipment

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Shifting or sunken paving

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Our pool leak detection and repair process

Get in touch with us via phone, WhatsApp, email, or by completing our form.

A member of our team will discuss your requirements, explain pricing, and arrange a convenient date and time for the inspection.

Our experienced leak detection specialists carry out a thorough inspection using advanced, non-invasive technology to locate the source of the leak.

You’ll receive a detailed report outlining all tests performed, our findings, recommended repairs, and a transparent repair quotation.

Once the repair quote is approved, we’ll schedule the repair and resolve the issue efficiently and professionally. A repair report can be provided where required, suitable for submission to insurance providers.

For those who’d like a deeper understanding, explore our expert articles covering common pool leak issues, water loss, and the difference between DIY testing and professional leak detection.

Learn more about pool leaks

Still Have Questions?

Speak to one of our experts and get personalized advice before booking your inspection.

Talk to an Expert

Why professional pool leak detection matters

While DIY tests can confirm water loss, they rarely identify the exact source of a leak. Professional pool leak detection uses specialised equipment and experience to locate leaks accurately and efficiently.

Accurate detection without unnecessary excavation

Early intervention to prevent major repairs

Reduced water loss and long-term costs

Professional repairs with a 3-year workmanship guarantee

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About DIY testing

Want to check if you have a leak? Here are a few DIY methods that you can use to test whether you may have a leak or not:

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The bucket test

What it does

The bucket test helps determine if water loss is due to evaporation or a leak.

How to perform

Place the bucket on a pool step, fill the bucket with pool water to the same level as the pool marking the water levels inside the bucket and on the outside of the bucket (representing the pool’s water level). Ensure the bucket is weighed down to keep it in place. A few stones or bricks would keep the bucket in place.
After 48 hours, compare the water levels inside and outside the bucket. If the pool water has dropped more than the bucket water, there may be a leak.
This can be done twice, first with the pool filtration system turned off for two days thereafter with the pool filtration running its normal cycle for two days or a minimum of six hours over the two days. Doing them independently can give indication on whether the leak is in the pool lining or in the pool plumbing.
If water loss increases when the pump is running, the leak may be on the pressure side (after the pump). If the loss is consistent, it could be a leak on the suction line or the pool lining.

Why it works

The bucket test separates evaporation from water loss due to leaks.

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Dye test

What it does

Helps detect leaks around pool fittings, lights, or suspected cracks.

How to perform

Turn off the pool pump to ensure still water.
Use a leak detection dye or diluted food colouring and a syringe near suspected areas (skimmers, jets, light niches, cracks).
Watch for the dye being drawn into the leak location.

Why it works

Water flows to the source of the leak, pulling the dye with it.

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Monitor water loss

What it does

Helps to determine if water loss is excessive compared to normal evaporation.

How to perform

Measure and record the pool’s water level at the same time over a few days.
Compare the daily water loss to average evaporation rates (typically around 4 to 6mm per day).
If the loss is significantly higher, it likely indicates a leak.
This can be done with the filtration system turned off for a few days and then with the filtration system on its normal cycle. Measuring them independently can give indication on whether the leak is in the pool lining or in the pool plumbing.
If water loss increases when the pump is running, the leak may be on the pressure side (after the pump). If the loss is consistent, it could be a leak on the suction line or the pool lining.
Look for air bubbles in the pump basket or return jets, which can indicate suction-side leaks.

Why it works

Measuring over several days gives a clearer picture of abnormal water loss that might be affected by weather conditions.

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Visual inspection

What it does

Identifies visible signs of leaks around the pool.

How to perform

Inspect for cracks, loose tiles, or gaps in the pool’s surface, especially around the skimmer, returns, lights, and fittings.
Check the equipment pad for moisture, drips, or puddles.
Look for wet spots or uneven grass near the pool’s plumbing or structure.

Why it works

Often leaks, especially above ground, can be identified visually.