Ever experienced a malfunction that put your pool activities on hold? Was it caused by a leak? Pool leaks can wreak havoc on your outdoor space and render the pool useless until they are fixed. Unfortunately, most minor leaks go undetected until they cause irreversible damage to your pool equipment.
Large cracks leak water and corrode water pipes or cause structural damage to concrete. Leaks can also cause a short circuit if the non-waterproof electrical components of the pool come into contact with water. Thus, it’s essential to learn what causes pool leaks and how you can prevent them to maintain a fully-functional and safe pool at all times. Keep reading to find out!
Overgrown Tree Roots
The trees growing close to your pool may provide the much-needed shade and improve the outdoor aesthetics. However, they can cause harm to your pool equipment. Large tree roots can grow into the structure and cause cracks that lead to an in-ground pool leak.
It’s advisable to install your pool away from trees with large secondary roots. However, if space is limited, keep all trees at least 15 feet away from your pool to prevent roots from growing into the pool and causing cracks. If there’s a tree causing you trouble, remove it to prevent future pool leaks.
Deteriorating Pool Equipment
After years or decades of use, your pool will start to show signs of aging. The wear and tear on your pool equipment eventually lead to leaks. As the worn-out pool pumps pump water under pressure, you may notice drips, which gradually transforms into noticeable leaks.
Even the seals designed to prevent water leaks will age and wear out, resulting in more leaks. If you see any sign of deterioration, it’s time to call a pool service company to assess the situation and replace the worn equipment. Regularly inspecting pool equipment for wear and tear can save you from costly leaks in the future.
Temperature Fluctuations
During the cold seasons, the water freezes due to molecule expansion. This leads to cracks and leaks, especially in equipment that’s not designed to handle that kind of stress. Consequently, during the warm season, the high temperature causes the concrete to expand. On the onset of cold weather, the concrete may shrink and crack in the process.
If you don’t repair the existing cracks, the alternation between shrinking and expansion will eventually make them widen in the following seasons. Therefore, drain the pool to prevent frozen water in the winter. Alternatively, use a pool heater to prevent freezing. Regularly inspect the pool for leaks that result from temperature changes, especially after the cold season.
Service Your Pool Regularly to Prevent Leaks
Some leaks are easier to detect while others will require the help of a professional. Our experts will assess your pool and make repairs, replacements, or upgrades where necessary.
Contact us now for professional pool service and weekly maintenance!