Published on August 20, 2025 by Leak Experts

If you’re a homeowner with an inground pool, it’s easy to enjoy the sparkling water without thinking about what’s happening beneath the surface. But a hidden leak can slowly turn that relaxing backyard retreat into a costly headache. The truth is, understanding how to detect pool leaks in a inground pool is essential for protecting your investment and avoiding expensive repairs.

A pool leak is not just about losing water—it’s about losing money. Left unchecked, even a small leak can waste thousands of gallons of water, increase chemical usage, and cause damage to your pool’s structure or surrounding landscaping.

At Leak Experts USA, we’ve seen every type of pool leak imaginable, from hairline cracks in the pool shell to underground plumbing failures. Our experience in detecting leaks means we can pinpoint issues fast and help you make informed decisions before the damage spreads.


Table of Contents

  1. Understanding the Risks of Pool Leaks
  2. Common Signs You May Have a Pool Leak
  3. The Basics: How to Detect Pool Leaks in a Inground Pool
  4. Professional Pool Inspection Process Explained
  5. Equipment-Related Pool Leaks
  6. Structural Pool Leaks
  7. Underground Plumbing Leaks
  8. How the Pool Service Timeline Affects Leak Repair
  9. DIY vs Professional Detection – Which is Right for You?
  10. Preventing Future Pool Leaks
  11. Why Choose Leak Experts USA for Pool Leak Detection
  12. FAQs – How to Detect Pool Leaks in a Inground Pool

Understanding the Risks of Pool Leaks

While many homeowners believe water loss in a pool is normal, there’s a difference between natural evaporation and an actual leak. And that difference matters.

Here are some common risks when a pool leak goes unnoticed:

  • Structural Damage – Water escaping through cracks can erode soil beneath your pool, causing sinking or shifting.
  • Increased Utility Costs – You’ll spend more on water, heating, and chemicals to maintain the right levels.
  • Soil Erosion & Landscaping Issues – Persistent underground leaks can cause wet spots or uneven ground.
  • Equipment Strain – Pumps and filters work harder to maintain circulation, leading to premature wear and tear.

Professional services like swimming pool leak detection Las Vegas are designed to identify problems before they escalate. Catching the leak early is the difference between a quick repair and a full pool renovation.


Common Signs You May Have a Pool Leak

Before diving into the technical steps of how to detect pool leaks in a inground pool, it’s important to know the early warning signs. Recognizing these symptoms can save you time, money, and stress:

  1. Rapid Water Level Drop – If your pool loses more than ¼ inch per day, there may be a leak rather than evaporation.
  2. Unexplained Algae Growth – A leak disrupts chemical balance, creating conditions for algae to thrive.
  3. Cracks in Tiles or Decking – Small cracks can be entry points for water loss.
  4. Soggy Spots Around the Pool Area – Wet areas around the pool soil or grass patches near the pool can indicate underground leakage.
  5. Air Bubbles in Pump System – Continuous bubbles may mean water is being drawn from somewhere it shouldn’t be.

Spotting these issues early makes it easier to move into the pool inspection process and identify the exact source of the problem. Follow us on Instagram for regular updates!

Pool Leak Detection Centennial Hills

The Basics: How to Detect Pool Leaks in a Inground Pool

Finding a pool leak can feel overwhelming, but there are tried-and-true steps homeowners can take before calling in a professional. Here’s a simple, step-by-step approach to how to detect pool leaks in a inground pool on your own:

Step 1: Conduct a Visual Inspection

  • Look for cracks in the plaster, missing grout around tiles, or gaps in the skimmer throat.
  • Check the decking and coping for separation from the pool shell.

Step 2: Perform the Bucket Test (Water Loss Test)

  • Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on a pool step so the water inside matches the pool level.
  • Mark both water levels and wait 24 hours.
  • If the pool water drops more than the bucket water, you likely have a leak.

Step 3: Use a Dye Test

  • Turn off pool pumps so the water is still.
  • Apply pool-safe dye near suspected leak areas; watch if the dye is drawn toward a crack or fitting.

Step 4: Check Equipment and Fittings

  • Inspect filters, pumps, heaters, and return lines for signs of a pool leak or water accumulation.
  • Ensure all fittings and seals are tight.

Professional Pool Inspection Process Explained

While DIY testing can give you clues, the most accurate results come from a professional pool inspection process. We use advanced tools to locate even the most hidden leaks, saving you time and preventing unnecessary digging or guesswork.

Our Professional Process Includes:

  1. Pressure Testing – Isolates different sections of plumbing to check for leaks in underground pipes.
  2. Acoustic Listening Devices – Detects the sound of escaping water beneath surfaces.
  3. Underwater Inspection – Divers examine the pool shell, fittings, and drains for signs of damage.
  4. Dye Testing in Problem Areas – Pinpoints leaks too small for visual detection alone.

Not only is this process more thorough than DIY methods, but it also allows us to determine the fastest pool service timeline for repair, so you can enjoy your pool without extended downtime.


Equipment-Related Pool Leaks

Sometimes the problem isn’t in the pool shell or underground plumbing but in the equipment itself. Even the best-maintained systems can develop wear-and-tear issues over time.

Common Equipment Leak Sources:

  • Skimmer Leaks – Often caused by worn-out gaskets or cracks in the skimmer housing.
  • Filter Housing Cracks – High pressure and age can cause hairline fractures in the filter tank.
  • Pump Seal Failures – Worn or loose seals allow water to drip around the pump motor.
  • Heater Leaks – Corrosion inside the heat exchanger can cause steady water loss.

Catching these early in the pool inspection process not only saves money but also prevents equipment burnout from running dry.


Structural Pool Leaks

While equipment leaks are common, structural leaks can be more severe and costly to repair. These occur when water escapes through cracks or gaps in the pool shell, tile line, or decking.

Causes of Structural Leaks:

  • Ground movement or soil settling
  • Natural aging of pool materials
  • Improper installation of coping or tiles
  • Damage from freeze-thaw cycles (in certain climates)

Structural leaks are often more difficult for homeowners to identify without professional help. This is where knowing how to detect pool leaks in a inground pool becomes essential. If you spot small cracks or loose tiles, it’s best to get them assessed before they worsen.


Underground Plumbing Leaks

One of the trickiest issues to diagnose, underground leaks often occur in the pipes that carry water to and from your pool.

Signs of an Underground Leak:

  • Persistent wet spots or soft soil around the pool
  • Air bubbles coming from return jets even after priming the pump
  • Pool losing water only when the pump is running

Professionals use specialized pressure testing and listening devices to locate underground leaks without excessive digging. Our approach to pool leak detection Las Vegas is designed to isolate the problem quickly, protecting both your pool and your yard.


How the Pool Service Timeline Affects Leak Repair

The pool service timeline from detection to repair can vary based on the complexity of the leak:

  • Simple Above-Ground Equipment Leak – Often fixed the same day.
  • Structural Leak – May take a few days, especially if resurfacing is required.
  • Underground Plumbing Leak – Detection and repair may take 2–4 days, depending on pipe location and accessibility.

Acting quickly is key. The longer water escapes, the more extensive the damage becomes—turning what could have been a simple repair into a major renovation.


DIY vs Professional Detection – Which is Right for You?

Some leaks are easy to find on your own, while others require specialized equipment and expertise.

DIY Detection Works Best When:

  • The leak is visible (e.g., a crack or gasket issue)
  • You have time to perform a water loss test or dye test
  • The issue appears minor and not linked to underground plumbing

Professional Detection is Essential When:

  • Water loss continues despite DIY tests
  • The leak source is hidden or underground
  • You want an accurate diagnosis without unnecessary digging
  • You need a guaranteed repair within a reasonable pool service timeline

Our pool inspection process combines advanced water detection tools with years of hands-on experience, ensuring that no leak goes undetected.


Preventing Future Pool Leaks

Prevention is always cheaper than repair. Here are a few steps you can take to minimize leak risks:

  • Regular Inspections – Schedule an annual or bi-annual pool inspection process to catch small issues early.
  • Maintain Proper Chemical Balance – Imbalanced water can deteriorate pool surfaces and seals faster.
  • Monitor Water Levels – A sudden drop is often the first sign of a leak.
  • Protect Against Freeze Damage – In colder climates, winterize your pool properly to avoid expansion-related cracks.

Consistent care not only prevents costly repairs but also extends the lifespan of your pool.


Why Choose Leak Experts USA for Pool Leak Detection

When you need precise, efficient, and reliable pool leak detection, choosing the right team matters. We specialize in how to detect pool leaks in a inground pool and provide solutions tailored to your home’s needs.

Here’s why homeowners in Las Vegas and nearby areas trust us:

  • Certified Inspection Specialists – We use industry-leading equipment for accurate results.
  • Fast & Transparent Service – We provide clear timelines and upfront pricing, so there are no surprises.
  • Comprehensive Repairs – From small skimmer leaks to major underground plumbing issues, we handle it all.
  • Local Expertise – We understand the unique challenges pools face in our region’s climate and soil conditions.

📞 Call us today at (702) 745-5571 to schedule your professional inspection and enjoy peace of mind knowing your pool is in expert hands.


FAQs – How to Detect Pool Leaks in a Inground Pool

1. How can I tell if my pool is leaking or just evaporating?

One of the simplest ways to find a leaksw out is by performing a bucket water loss test. Fill a bucket with water and place it on your pool’s step so the water inside is at the same level as the pool. Mark both levels, then check after 24 hours. If the pool water level drops more than the bucket water, it’s a sign you likely have a leak rather than normal evaporation.


2. What’s involved in a professional pool inspection process?

A professional pool inspection process is thorough and highly accurate. It can include pressure testing of plumbing lines, acoustic listening devices to detect hidden leaks, dye testing to identify cracks, and even underwater inspections by certified divers. This ensures every potential problem area is examined before repairs begin.


3. How long is the average pool service timeline for repairs?

The pool service timeline depends on the complexity of the leak. Simple surface leaks may be fixed in a single day, while underground or structural leaks could require several days of work, especially if deck removal or pipe replacement is needed.


4. Is it expensive to fix a pool leak?

The cost varies depending on the leak’s location and severity. Early detection not only prevents further water loss but also keeps repair costs manageable.


5. Do you offer pool leak detection in Las Vegas?

Absolutely! We specialize in pool leak detection Las Vegas. Our trained technicians use advanced tools to ensure fast, accurate, and long-lasting repairs.


Protect Your Pool, Protect Your Investment

Knowing how to detect pool leaks in a inground pool can save you from unexpected repair bills and keep your backyard oasis in top shape. Whether you’ve noticed rapid water loss, cracks in the structure, or equipment issues, acting quickly is the smartest choice.

We make the pool inspection process straightforward and stress-free, giving you a clear diagnosis and repair plan within a reasonable pool service timeline.

📞 Call (702) 745-5571 or book online today to schedule your inspection and ensure your pool stays ready for years of enjoyment. Follow us on Instagram for regular updates!