Why is My Pool Losing Water Faster Than Usual?

Excessive water loss may indicate a leak or evaporation due to high temperatures. Check for leaks in the liner or plumbing.

Understanding Pool Water Loss

Pools naturally lose some water over time due to evaporation, splashing, and backwashing. In fact, it is completely normal for pools to lose about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of water per day, especially in hot or windy weather. However, if you notice that your pool is losing water much faster than usual, it's a good idea to investigate further.

1. Evaporation and Weather Conditions

One of the most common reasons pools lose water is evaporation. Evaporation occurs when the water in your pool turns into vapor and escapes into the air. This is more noticeable during hot and dry weather, when the sun is beating down on your pool for long hours. If the temperature rises or there is a lot of wind, evaporation can happen quickly, causing water loss.

Solution: While you can't control the weather, using a pool cover when the pool is not in use can help reduce evaporation. It can also keep debris out, which could clog your filter and cause other issues.

2. Leaks in the Pool Structure

If your pool is losing water significantly faster than usual, the most likely cause is a leak. Leaks can occur in various parts of your pool, such as the walls, floor, or plumbing. Even small leaks can lead to noticeable water loss over time. If you have a vinyl pool liner, tears or punctures in the liner can lead to leaks. Concrete or gunite pools can also develop cracks or holes that allow water to escape.

Solution: To check for leaks, perform the bucket test. Fill a bucket with water and place it on the pool step, ensuring the water level inside the bucket is the same as the pool’s water level. If the water level in the pool drops faster than the water inside the bucket, you have a leak. You'll need to contact a pool professional to locate and repair the leak.

3. Issues with Pool Equipment

Sometimes, the problem is not with the pool itself but with the equipment. If your pool pump, filter, or skimmer is malfunctioning, it could cause water loss. A faulty pump could lead to water being pulled out of the pool and into the drainage system, while a broken skimmer might be letting water escape.

Solution: Inspect your pool equipment for signs of damage or malfunction. Check the pump and filter for leaks, and ensure everything is functioning properly. If you find an issue with your equipment, you might need to replace or repair parts.

4. Backwashing

Backwashing is a common part of pool maintenance, but if done too frequently, it can lead to unnecessary water loss. Backwashing involves running water through your pool filter to flush out dirt and debris. If you're backwashing too often, it can waste water and cause the pool to lose more than necessary.

Solution: Only backwash your pool when the pressure gauge on the filter rises by 8-10 psi. Overdoing it can waste both water and energy.

5. Water Features and Sprinklers

Many pools have built-in water features like fountains, waterfalls, or sprayers. While these features are beautiful, they can also lead to increased water loss due to evaporation. Additionally, sprinklers that are placed too close to the pool can splash water into it, causing the pool to overflow and eventually lose water.

Solution: Make sure that any water features are running efficiently and not spraying water out of the pool. Check your sprinklers to ensure they are not hitting the pool or the surrounding area too frequently.

6. Improper Pool Maintenance

If your pool isn't regularly maintained, issues like clogged drains, dirty filters, or poor circulation can exacerbate water loss. If debris is blocking your skimmer or pump, it could cause water to escape from the pool.

Solution: Regularly clean your pool, clear out any debris, and make sure your filtration system is running efficiently. Keeping the pool clean and well-maintained will help prevent water loss due to equipment malfunctions.

7. Pool Bottom or Tile Problems

Cracks or wear on the pool's surface can also cause water to leak. Over time, the pool’s bottom or tiles may become damaged due to age, shifting ground, or poor installation. Even small cracks can lead to water escaping.

Solution: If you notice cracks on the surface of your pool, it's important to have them repaired as soon as possible. A pool professional can inspect your pool and fix any underlying issues.

8. Overfilling the Pool

Another often overlooked reason for water loss is overfilling your pool. When the pool is overfilled, water may spill over the edges and waste unnecessarily. In addition, excess water may be drained through the skimmer if your pool’s water level exceeds the ideal mark.

Solution: Always check your pool’s water level and avoid filling it too high. The water level should be about halfway up the skimmer’s opening.

9. Water Temperature and Heating Systems

If your pool is heated, it’s important to consider the impact of water temperature on water loss. Heated pools often experience faster evaporation, especially if the pool’s water temperature is set too high.

Solution: Consider lowering the pool’s temperature, especially during the warmer months. Additionally, you can invest in a pool cover to help retain heat and prevent evaporation.

10. Pool Location and Surrounding Environment

The location of your pool plays a major role in how much water it loses. If your pool is located in an area that is exposed to high winds or direct sunlight for long periods, you will experience more evaporation. Similarly, if there are large trees or shrubs near your pool, their roots can cause damage and leaks to the pool structure.

Solution: Try to position your pool in a more sheltered area or consider using windbreaks to reduce the effects of the elements on evaporation.

How to Prevent Excess Water Loss

Now that we’ve covered some of the reasons why your pool may be losing water, here are some tips to prevent water loss:

• Use a pool cover during the off-season or when not in use.

• Regularly inspect your pool for leaks, cracks, or damage.

• Maintain your pool’s equipment, including pumps, filters, and skimmers.

• Avoid overfilling the pool and regularly check the water level.

• Limit the use of water features and sprinklers near the pool.

By staying on top of maintenance and addressing issues quickly, you can keep your pool functioning efficiently and minimize water loss. Keeping an eye on the signs and addressing potential causes early on will save you time and money in the long run.