Signs that you have a pool leak (and what to do about it)
A swimming pool should bring peace of mind – not rising water bills and constant top-ups. Unfortunately, pool leaks are more common than many homeowners realise, and they often go unnoticed until significant damage has already been done.
Recognising the early warning signs of a pool leak can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Below are the most common indicators to watch out for.
Rapid water level drop
All pools lose some water due to evaporation, especially in warmer or windy conditions. However, if your uncovered pool is losing more than 40 to 50mm of water per week, it’s likely there’s a leak.
A simple way to check is by performing a bucket test, which helps determine whether water loss is due to evaporation or an actual leak. If the pool level drops more than the water in the bucket, it’s time to investigate further.
A sudden increase in your water bill can be one of the clearest signs of a hidden pool leak.
Automatic pool fillers can sometimes mask the problem by constantly topping up the water, but this often leads to unexpectedly high monthly water costs. If your usage spikes without explanation, your pool could be the culprit.
Wet or soggy areas around the pool
Unusually damp or soggy soil
Patches of grass that are greener or growing faster than the rest
Water pooling where it shouldn’t be
These signs may indicate water escaping underground and saturating the surrounding soil.
Cracks or gaps in the pool structure
Regularly inspect your pool for visible damage, including:
Cracks in the pool shell
Loose or missing tiles
Gaps in the coping or joints
Even small cracks can worsen over time, leading to significant water loss and structural issues if left untreated.
Excessive or persistent algae growth
If you’re constantly battling algae despite balanced chemicals and regular maintenance, a leak could be introducing untreated or fresh water into the pool.
This can dilute chemicals and make it difficult to maintain proper water balance, creating the perfect environment for algae to thrive.
Bubbles coming from the return jets while the pump is running often indicate a suction-side leak.
You may also notice:
Gurgling sounds from the skimmer
Unusual noises from the pump
These symptoms suggest air is being drawn into the system where water should be.
Pool equipment leaks
Inspect your pool equipment area carefully, including:
Pump
Filter
Heat pump
Solar heating system
Look for standing water, damp surfaces, or white calcium deposits, which can indicate slow leaks that may worsen over time.
Shifting or sinking pool deck
Water leaking beneath the pool can erode the soil underneath, causing:
Sinking or tilting paving
Cracked tiles
Uneven decking around the pool
These issues are not just cosmetic – they can point to serious underlying water loss.
When to call a professional
If you’ve noticed one or more of these warning signs, it’s best to act sooner rather than later. What starts as a small, hidden leak can quickly lead to structural damage, rising water bills, and costly repairs.
Professional pool leak detection allows the exact source of the leak to be identified without unnecessary digging or damage to your pool, paving, or landscaping. Early detection not only saves water but also protects your pool investment in the long term.
Suspect a leak? Let us help.
Our specialised pool leak detection service uses non-invasive techniques to accurately locate leaks and advise on the best next steps.
Visit our Pool Leak Detection page to learn more. Click the button below: