Triple-digit temperatures are a hallmark of North Texas summers, and if you have a pool in the area, you expect to see some water loss from evaporation. However, when your water bill suddenly increases or you find yourself constantly adding water, it raises a more troubling question: Is this just the summer heat, or do you have a leak? Understanding how to tell the difference between natural pool evaporation and a genuine leak is crucial for homeowners in Collin, North Dallas, and South Grayson Counties. Here’s how you can take action before the problem worsens.
It’s not uncommon for pools in North Texas to lose up to a quarter inch of water per day during the peak of summer. High temperatures, windy conditions, and low humidity all accelerate evaporation. If your pool water is dropping more rapidly than this, or if you are refilling two or more inches each week, it may be time to investigate further.
The quickest way to distinguish between evaporation and a leak is the bucket test. Here’s how you can perform this straightforward check:
Fill the pool to its normal level.
Take a clean bucket and fill it with pool water, leaving about an inch from the top.
Place the bucket on a pool step so the level of water inside the bucket matches the pool water outside.
Mark both water levels (inside and outside the bucket) using tape or a waterproof marker.
Leave the bucket undisturbed for 24-48 hours, making sure no rain or splash-out occurs.
Compare the two marks: if the pool level drops significantly more than the bucket, you likely have a leak.
This test works best when your pool is not in use for a day or two, such as during the workweek or when you’re away for the weekend.
If the bucket test points to a leak, locating the source can be tricky. North Texas pools can develop leaks in several locations due to the clay soil, ground shifting, and temperature swings common in the region. The most common leak points include:
Skimmer throat and skimmer basket area, especially where plastic and concrete meet
Cracks in the pool shell or tile line
Leaky plumbing, particularly return lines and main drains
Equipment pad, including pumps, filters, and heaters
Light fixtures and conduit penetrations
Many leaks start small but get worse over time, leading to costly repairs if not addressed early.
If you suspect your pool has a leak, professional help is indispensable. Reputable pool service technicians use advanced electronic leak detection equipment that can pinpoint leaks behind walls, under decks, or underground, all without unnecessary demolition. Here’s a brief overview of how the process typically works:
Specialists start with a visual inspection and a pressure test of plumbing lines.
They may use sensitive listening devices that detect escaping water in underground pipes.
Some employ dye testing to trace water movement around suspected cracks or penetrations.
Thermal imaging and specialized cameras can also help locate hidden leaks with precision.
Choosing a local North Texas pool repair company familiar with the region’s unique challenges ensures an efficient and minimally invasive resolution, preserving your pool’s structure and landscaping.
Don’t let excessive water loss become a costly surprise this season. If you’ve noticed unusual water loss in your pool and are located in Collin County, North Dallas or South Grayson County, reach out to Blue Escapes Pool & Spa. Their proven leak detection and pool repair services address both common and complex issues in North Texas pools. Call (214) 402-5457 or fill out the convenient online form to schedule your service and get peace of mind about your pool’s condition.
