Above-Ground Pool Water Leaks Out at Waste Line

Evaporation

• Evaporation is the leading cause of water loss throughout many parts of the country. Though not related to leaks or plumbing problems, this process will potentially remove several hundred gallons of water per month, which increases water bills as more water is needed to keep the pool functioning. The larger the pool the more water will be lost, and more water will be lost during hot summer months. Installing a pool cover will reduce or eliminate evaporation. If water loss persists, it is likely the result of a more serious problem.

Locate Leaks

• There are a number of ways to find a leak in an above-ground pool. The location of the leak, whether in the lining or plumbing, will determine the search method. A pressure test will aid in identifying a leak in the plumbing, including the waste line. You'll need a special pressure device that will help target the plumbing system and find the source of water loss. A dye test is especially useful for locating leaks around plumbing, light fixtures and other fittings. This test requires a few drops of food dye be added to an area suspected of leaking. If this color is pulled out of the water, it indicates the presence of a leak. A leak in the liner is either visually assessed and repaired or detected using an electronic vinyl leak detector, which will significantly shorten the search process.

Aging Fittings

• If the water loss in the waste line isn’t due to a crack or leak, it is likely the result of aging sealants. Swimming pools and their plumbing are designed to be water tight, but with age will begin to break down. This breakdown has the potential to cause severe water loss. Any piece of plumbing, including drains, filters and hoses, are sealed with watertight sealants that must be reapplied over time. The cure for this problem is a new application of sealant, which can be found from most pool specialty retailers. In older pools, a full replacement of plumbing pieces is sometimes necessary.

Cracks

• As vinyl ages, it becomes more likely to develop serious cracks. This is a problem particularly common in areas with lots of sun and heat, as this will dry and age vinyl faster than usual. Treating this problem is somewhat time consuming and requires the pool be drained and dried completely. Once the crack is located, it should be coated with PVC cement. This process is only effective against minor cracks; major cracks are usually not repairable.