Is your pool leaking?

Here is a step by step process to identify a pool leak.

Bucket Test How To:

  1. To perform a bucket test and identify a leak in your pool, start by filling a plastic bucket with water up to an inch from the top.

  2. Place the bucket on the pool step or ledge, ensuring it is stable and the water level inside the bucket matches the pool’s water level.

  3. Mark the water level on both the inside and outside of the bucket with a waterproof marker or tape.

  4. Leave the bucket in place for 1-5 days, making sure the pool pump is off during this time to prevent interference.

  5. Turn off the automatic water leveler, this ensures the addition of water does not compromise the test.

  6. After 24, 48, 72 …hours, compare the water levels. If the water level inside the bucket has dropped less than the water level outside, the loss of water in the pool is due to evaporation. However, if the pool’s water level has dropped more than the water inside the bucket, it indicates a possible leak. This method helps isolate the leak from normal evaporation.

Bucket Test Example

Marking the bucket can be used with just about anything. The results can often times be close. If the water line results are within 1/4 in of each other, its likely you don’t have a leak. There are some exceptions to take note of. The test is recommended to be completed with pumps disabled. To be thorough it should be done with the pump running its normal cycle as well, to explore the possibility of increased water loss when pump running on a compromised pressure line. If bucket test results indicate a leak, please drop us a line below so we can help!

623-703-6921

"Fill a bucket, mark the height,
Place it in, and check overnight.
If the pool drops more than pail,
You've got a leak—seems there’s a fail!"

— Me