HIGH WATER BILL FROM A POOL LEAK? HERE’S WHAT TO DO

Yes — a pool leak is one of the most common reasons pool owners get hit with an unexpectedly high bill.

Here’s why it adds up fast:

• A leak can run 24/7

• Auto-fill systems can silently refill the pool without you noticing

• Underground plumbing leaks can waste water without visible puddles

If you’ve been refilling more often than usual (even “just a little”), your bill can jump quickly.

Look for these common signs:

• You’ve been adding water to the pool more frequently

• The pool level drops faster than normal

• The pool seems to “settle” and stop at a certain level

• You notice soggy ground, soft spots, or unusually green patches near the pool or equipment

• Your pump is pulling air (bubbles in the returns, pump losing prime)

• You hear water running when nothing inside the home is using water

• You have an auto-fill and it’s been running more than usual

Quick clue: If the pool level drops noticeably after 24 hours with no swimming, it’s worth testing.

When a leak is raising your water bill, it’s usually in one of these areas:

Skimmer Leaks

Skimmers can crack or separate slightly over time.

Clue: The water level drops and stops around the skimmer opening.

Pool Light / Conduit Leaks

Leaks can form behind the pool light or in the conduit line.

Clue: The water level stabilizes near the light.

Cracks in the Pool Shell

Some cracks are cosmetic, others leak.

Clue: Water loss continues consistently whether the pump is on or off.

Underground Plumbing Leaks (Suction/Return Lines)

These can occur under the deck or in the yard and may not show on the surface.

Clue: Wet spots, shifting soil, air in the system, weak suction, pump losing prime.

Equipment Pad Leaks (Pump/Filter/Valves)

Sometimes the issue is right at the equipment.

Clue: Visible drips, puddles, or dampness near the pump/filter, especially while running.

Here are simple checks you can do right now to narrow it down.

1) Do a Quick Shutoff Test

If possible, stop anything that automatically adds water to the pool (auto-fill), and don’t swim for 24 hours.

• Mark the waterline with tape or a marker.
• Check the level after 24 hours.

If it drops noticeably, you likely have a leak.

2) Check Your Auto-Fill (If You Have One)

Auto-fills are convenient, but they hide leaks.

• Look for constant running water
• Check if the fill valve is stuck or leaking
• If your pool stays “perfectly topped off” while your bill climbs, auto-fill may be masking the problem

If you’re unsure, shut it off temporarily and monitor your pool level.

3) Inspect the Equipment Pad

Walk around your pump, filter, heater, and valves while the pump is running.

Check for:

• Drips under unions and valves
• Wet soil or puddles
• Water spraying or misting from connections
• Leaks around filter clamps or drain plugs

Even small drips add up over weeks.

4) Run the Bucket Test (Evaporation vs Leak)

If you want a clear yes/no answer, do the bucket test.

👉 Bucket Test: Pool Leak or Evaporation?

Result guide:

Pool drops more than bucket → likely leak

Same drop → likely evaporation/weather

Call for professional leak detection if:

• Your bill spiked and you can’t explain it

• The bucket test points to a leak

• You’re losing more than 1/4 inch per day

• The water level stops at the skimmer, light, or another consistent point

• You see wet spots near the pool or equipment

• Your pump is pulling air or losing prime

Professional detection saves money by pinpointing the leak fast—so you don’t waste weeks refilling or guessing.

Stop paying for water you’re losing. We’ll find the leak and give you repair options.