Pools are a great escape, adding value and fun to your home. But when a pool starts to leak, the costs can far outweigh the fun. It’s easy to put it off, but the cost of ignoring a pool leak can be huge. This post will discuss the financials of ignoring pool leaks and when to call in a pro.
Avoiding a Pool Leak
Ignoring a pool leak can cost more than just the pool itself. Let’s go into some of the financial impacts:
Higher Water Bills
One of the first signs of a pool leak is a sudden spike in your water bill. Even a tiny leak can cause a loss of gallons of water daily, and you’ll notice it on your monthly bill. Some water loss is expected due to evaporation, but leaks will replace water consistently over time. Not only is this expensive, but it’s also wasteful.
Chemical Imbalance Costs
Leaks disrupt the chemical balance of your pool, so you’ll have to add chemicals more often. Balancing pH, adding chlorine, and adjusting alkalinity becomes a daily task and expense. Chemicals can be expensive, so continually adjusting them due to a leak can cost hundreds of dollars. Unbalanced water will also cause skin irritation, eye discomfort, and other issues for swimmers and diminish the overall enjoyment of the pool.
Structural Damage
If left unchecked, a pool leak can cause structural damage. As water leaks out of the pool, it can saturate the ground around it and cause soil erosion or damage to the pool’s foundation. This may mean significant repairs like resurfacing, retiring, or replacing cracked decking, which are way more expensive than fixing the leak itself. You may even get cracks in the pool walls, misaligned tiles, or weakened decking.
Pool Equipment
Leaks put unnecessary stress on your pool’s filtration system and pump, as these systems have to work harder to maintain the water level. The extra work will shorten the life of expensive equipment like pumps, filters, and heaters. Equipment replacement is not only inconvenient but can cost thousands of dollars. Running your pool system efficiently is way more cost-effective than dealing with equipment failure due to a leak.
Landscaping
A leaking pool can also damage landscaping, especially if the leak is underground. Water can saturate the soil and damage grass, plants, and trees around the pool. In extreme cases, it can even create sinkholes. Landscaping repair is not cheap, and the cost will increase depending on the extent of the damage.
Liability Issues
If water from a leaking pool seeps into neighboring properties, it can damage structures or landscaping. This can lead to disputes with neighbors or even legal action and add to the stress and expense of the situation. Avoiding a leak can be a costly liability far beyond maintenance.
When to Call A Pool Leak Expert
Knowing when to call an expert will save you from extra stress and expense. Here are the signs to call a pool leak detection expert.
Water Loss
Pools lose some water to evaporation, but unusually rapid water loss is a sign of a leak. You can do a simple “bucket test” to measure water loss. Place a bucket on a pool step, fill it with water to match the pool water level, and observe the water levels over 24-48 hours. If the pool water level drops more than the bucket’s, it’s a leak, and it’s time to call an expert.
Chemical Imbalance
If the water chemistry becomes more challenging to balance despite regular treatment, there’s a chance a leak is to blame. Persistent chemical imbalances are often caused by water leaking out while new untreated water seeps in. A professional can confirm the cause and fix the problem.
Pool Deck Cracks or Shifts
Cracks in the deck or areas where the ground around the pool is sinking or shifting indicate a leak beneath the surface. A pool professional can perform pressure testing, dye testing, or other diagnostic tests to locate and repair the issue before it becomes a safety hazard.
Water in Yard
Call a professional if you notice puddling or damp spots around the pool area or in the yard. This could be a sign of a leaking underground pipe or plumbing joint. A leak detection expert has the right tools to assess the situation without damaging your property.
Equipment Issues
If your pool pump is making unusual noises or the filter is running inefficiently, a leak could be the culprit. When equipment operates under stress, it’s often because it’s trying to compensate for water loss. Before replacing your pool equipment, call a professional to rule out a leak.
High Water Bills
If your water bills suddenly go through the roof and you can’t explain why, a pool leak is one of the top suspects. An expert can locate the leak and determine whether it’s in the plumbing, structure, or fittings.
Why Hire a Professional
Calling a professional to assess and repair a leak gives you peace of mind and many other benefits.
Accurate Leak Detection
Pool leak detection specialists use advanced equipment, such as electronic listening devices, pressure testing, and dye testing, to find even the smallest leaks. This ensures accurate detection and prevents damage to the pool surface or surrounding areas.
Preventative Maintenance
A professional not only fixes the immediate problem but also guides you on preventing future leaks. This includes checking seals, joints, and plumbing lines. Regular maintenance checks can identify potential problem areas before they become leaks and save you time and money in the long run.
Safety
An expert can ensure the pool is safe to use while repairs are done. They can guide you through necessary precautions to protect your family and property.
Long Term Savings
By investing in professional leak detection and repair services, you can address the issue early and save money in the long run. Fixing a leak now can prevent costly repairs later, preserve your equipment, and balance your chemical system.
Protect Your Pool & Your Budget
The cost of ignoring a pool leak can add up quickly, affecting your finances, property, and even your relationship with your neighbors. Fixing a pool leak as soon as possible is the best way to protect your pool and wallet. Knowing when to call in an expert and acting fast can prevent further problems and provide a healthy pool for years.