Noticing your pool water level dropping more than usual can be frustrating.
Some water loss is expected. But when it becomes consistent or excessive, it’s worth understanding why.
The challenge is that both evaporation and leaks can look similar at first. Knowing the difference early can help you avoid unnecessary costs and potential damage. When needed, get the right pool repair and leak detection solution in place.
How much water loss is normal?
In Sydney’s climate, most pools lose around 3–5mm of water per day due to evaporation.
This can increase with:
- Hot weather
- Wind exposure
- Frequent pool use
Occasional top-ups are normal.
But if you’re needing to refill regularly or noticing a steady drop in water levels, it’s a sign to investigate further.
Leak or evaporation? Here’s how to tell
A simple way to check is the bucket test.
Here’s how to do it:
- Fill a bucket with pool water
- Place it on a pool step so the water level matches the pool level
- Mark both water levels
- Leave it for 24 hours
If the pool level drops more than the bucket, it’s likely a leak rather than evaporation.
Signs your pool may have a leak
Water loss alone doesn’t always confirm a leak. But when combined with other signs, the likelihood increases.
Look for:
- Cracks in the pool surface
- Wet or soft areas around the pool
- Air bubbles in return lines
- Unexplained changes in water chemistry
- Frequent or ongoing refilling
If you’re noticing more than one of these, it’s unlikely to be evaporation alone.
Why pool leaks shouldn’t be ignored
Even a small leak can lead to larger issues over time.
Left unaddressed, it can result in:
- Structural damage to the pool
- Ground movement or erosion around the area
- Higher repair costs over time
- Increased water and chemical usage
What starts as a minor issue can become significantly more complex — and expensive — if left too long.
What causes a pool to leak?
Leaks can occur in several areas, not always visible from the surface.
Common causes include:
- Cracks in the concrete shell
- Failed waterproofing
- Damaged or ageing pipework
- Issues around fittings, returns, or skimmers
- Movement in the surrounding structure
Because of this, surface fixes often don’t resolve the underlying issue.
When to call in a professional
If you’ve ruled out evaporation and the water level continues to drop, a professional assessment is the next step.
Proper leak detection allows for a targeted and long-lasting repair. It helps to:
- Identify the exact source of the leak
- Assess any structural concerns
- Recommend the right repair method
- Prevent further damage
If you suspect your pool may have a leak, it’s worth exploring pool repair and leak detection services to properly identify and fix the issue.
The bottom line
Some water loss is normal. Consistent or excessive loss is not.
Understanding the difference early can help you avoid unnecessary damage and costs.
If something doesn’t seem right, it’s worth having it checked properly.
How much water loss is too much for a pool?
Most pools lose around 3–5mm of water per day due to evaporation. If you’re losing significantly more than this, or needing to top up your pool every few days, it may indicate a leak rather than normal water loss.
Can a pool leak fix itself?
No! Pool leaks won’t fix themselves. In most cases, they gradually get worse over time, especially if they’re caused by cracks, structural movement, or damaged pipework. Addressing the issue early can prevent more extensive repairs later.
Is it expensive to fix a pool leak?
The cost depends on the cause and severity of the leak. Minor issues can be relatively straightforward to repair, while structural problems or hidden leaks may require more involved work. The most important step is identifying the source properly to avoid unnecessary or repeated repairs.
Do all pool leaks require structural repairs?
Not always. Some leaks come from fittings, pipework, or seals, while others are caused by cracks or structural damage. A proper assessment will determine whether a simple repair or a more involved structural solution is needed.
How do professionals detect pool leaks?
Professional leak detection involves a combination of pressure testing, dye testing, and specialised equipment to accurately locate the source of the leak. This allows for targeted repairs rather than guesswork.
If you’re unsure whether your pool is leaking or just losing water naturally, it’s worth having it checked properly. Learn more about our pool repair and leak detection services or get in touch for an assessment.
