LEAK TIPS
The Ole Bucket test
(this is also used to check evaporation
of pool)
-
Bring the pool water to its normal level
-
Fill an empty bucket with pool water to
about one inch from the top of bucket. (By filling the bucket close to the top
you are ensuring that air movement over the surface of the bucket will similar
to that of the pool.)
-
Place the bucket on the first or second
step of the pool. To keep it from floating away it may be necessary to place a
few bricks or rocks into the bucket. (By placing the bucket in the pool water
you are ensuring that the water temperature of each will be similar).
-
Mark the water level inside the bucket.
-
Mark the water level of the pool on the
outside of the bucket, on the pool wall, or skimmer face plate.
-
Operate the pool for 24 hours as it had
been operated when a leak was first suspected.
-
After 24 hours, compare the two levels. If
the pool water (outside mark) goes down more than the inside water level,
there is probably a leak.
The 48 hour test
Establishing suspected leak locations with a "Pump
on/Pump off test"
Comparing the results of subsequent bucket tests
with the pump on for 24 hours to the results with the pump off for 24 hours can
provide additional information on the leak’s location.
Water loss with pump on is greater than water loss
with pump off = suspect; return plumbing leaks (Pressure side plumbing) or
loosing water out the backwash line.
Water loss with pump on is less than water loss with pump off =
suspect; liner leaking, skimmer/main drain plumbing leaks, (Suction side plumbing),
anything that is inside of the pool structure.
Although these tests are prone to false results
because of varying environmental conditions during the tests, the information
they provide can at least establish suspect locations to begin your leak search.
Giving this information to a leak professional will help them to efficiently
solve your pool leak problem.
Here's how to
calculate your water loss in gallons:
1) Determine your pool surface area by multiplying the length times the width.(
length X width )
2) Multiply the inches of water loss times .62
3) Multiply the results of (2) times surface area ( 1)
The result is your water loss in gallons of water per day.
Example= A pool 20 ft wide by 40 ft. long is loosing 1 inch of water per day.
20 Ft. x 40 Ft. = 800 sq. ft.
1 inch water loss x .62 = .62
.62 x 800 sq. ft. = 496 gallons.
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