Commercial swimming pools, such as those in hotels, resorts, fitness centers, and public spaces, are useful amenities that can attract patrons and enhance enjoyment.

However, maintaining these pools requires vigilance since there’s always the risk of water leaks. Ignoring a leak is not just about water loss; it can lead to structural damage, increased operational costs, and reduced customer satisfaction. These are very real consequences that can severely impact a business.

This article will discuss how to recognize and address leaks in commercial pools. We will also examine effective commercial pool leak detection strategies and the best practices for repairing these leaks, as recommended by Florida Leak Locators of Pompano Beach.

Recognizing Signs of a Pool Leak

Keep an eye out for these signs, which indicate that there could be a leak in your commercial pool.

1. Unusual Increase in Water Bills

A noticeable and unexpected rise in water bills can often be the first clue of a leak, especially if there hasn’t been a corresponding increase in the number of people using the pool. When more water than usual is needed to maintain the pool’s water level, it could be a sign that water is escaping somewhere it shouldn’t. This is one of the simplest yet most telling signs to watch out for.

2. Changes in Pool Deck Condition

The area around your pool, known as the deck, can provide visible cues of a potential leak. If you start to see tiles lifting off the ground or cracks forming in the concrete or other materials of the deck, it might be caused by water leaking from the pool and weakening the underlying support. This water can cause the ground to shift, leading to visible damage that signals a leak and poses safety risks.

3. Altered Water Levels

Pools that automatically refill themselves can sometimes conceal a leak, as fresh water is constantly added to keep the level consistent. However, this feature might be disguising a continuous loss of water.

Manually checking the water level over time—by marking the water level on the side of the pool and observing it over a few days—can help uncover discrepancies. If the water level drops more quickly than it should due to evaporation alone (a few inches per week is typical, depending on the climate), there’s likely a leak somewhere in the pool.

Techniques for Detecting Pool Leaks

Here are some effective techniques to confirm if there is indeed a leak in your commercial pool.

1. The Dye Test

If you suspect a leak, a dye test can be an effective method of confirming it. This test involves putting a small amount of non-toxic dye into the water near the suspected leak area so you can visually confirm the leak’s presence.

If a leak occurs, the dye will be drawn toward it, providing a clear visual indicator of the water’s escape path. This method is particularly useful for pinpointing specific, localized problems in the pool’s structure.

2. Pressure Testing

This technique involves checking the pressure in the pool’s plumbing lines to identify any discrepancies that could indicate a leak. This test is performed by sealing the system and pressurizing it with air or water. Pressure gauges are then used to monitor the system; a pressure drop indicates a leak.

This method is very effective for detecting leaks in areas that are not visually accessible, such as underground plumbing. This is a critical test because you want to ensure all pool circulation system components are intact and functioning correctly.

3. Professional Audits

Routine professional audits are essential for maintaining the health of your commercial pool. These specialists can identify and address issues that are not obvious during daily operations.

They use advanced tools and techniques to thoroughly inspect the pool and its associated systems, ensuring that any potential leaks are identified before they become major problems.

Effective Repair Strategies

Once you identify the leak, it’s important to prevent further damage immediately. Here’s how you can address various types of leaks:

1. Crack Sealing

Small cracks in the pool’s structure can often be the source of water leaks. These can be effectively treated using high-grade, waterproof sealants designed specifically for pools.

These sealants are applied directly to the cracks and work by forming a durable, waterproof barrier that stops water from escaping. This method is suitable for minor, surface-level structural issues.

2. Pipe Repair

When a leak is detected in the plumbing, repairing or replacing the damaged section is essential. Techniques such as pipe sleeving can repair leaks without replacing entire piping sections, which can be cost-effective and less disruptive. However, in cases where damage is extensive or the pipes are old and degraded, a full replacement might be necessary to prevent future leaks and ensure long-lasting results.

3. Renovating Aged Structures

In some cases, particularly with older pools, chronic leaking issues may indicate broader structural failures that require more comprehensive solutions than simple crack sealing or pipe repairs.

Repair might involve resurfacing the pool, replacing outdated plumbing components, and reinforcing structural weaknesses. These renovations address the immediate leaks and improve the pool’s overall durability and functionality.

Closing Thoughts

Addressing commercial pool leaks is not just about maintaining the facility—it’s about safeguarding the business’s reputation and financial health. Early detection and repair will ensure the pool’s longevity and enhance guest satisfaction and safety.

Consider getting regular professional evaluations and stay informed about the latest maintenance practices to keep ahead of potential issues.