How to Tell if Your Pool is Leaking – Evaporation vs. Leaks | Aquatic Surfaces
Is Your Pool Leaking? What You Need to Know About Water Loss
As a pool owner in Florida, it’s natural to wonder, “How much water loss is normal?” If you notice your pool water level dropping, it may not always be due to a leak. Understanding the factors that contribute to water loss can help you determine whether you’re experiencing typical evaporation or if there’s a more serious issue at hand. At Aquatic Surfaces, we provide comprehensive pool services, including leak detection, pool resurfacing, and renovation, to ensure your pool stays in top condition.
How Much Evaporation is Normal?
Typically, an uncovered pool in Florida can lose about a quarter-inch of water per day due to evaporation. If your pool is covered, the water loss should be less, especially when the cover is used at night. For pools that are frequently covered, such as hot tubs and spas, evaporation is minimal. However, there are several other factors to consider that can influence evaporation rates, especially in Florida’s unique climate.
Factors Affecting Pool Water Evaporation:
– Sun and Air Temperature: Hotter days increase evaporation, especially in direct sunlight.
– Humidity: Lower humidity causes faster evaporation, while higher humidity can slow it down.
– Wind: High winds can increase water loss, particularly during dry weather.
– Rain: Tropical storms and rainfall can temporarily offset evaporation but may also cause other issues, like debris accumulation.
Impact of Stormy Weather and High Winds
Florida’s tropical storms and hurricane season can significantly affect your pool’s water level. When a storm is predicted, it’s important to cover your pool tightly to protect it from debris, prevent excessive water loss, and minimize flooding. Items like diving boards, slides, and pool accessories should be removed or secured if your pool is in the path of a hurricane.
High winds, especially in dry weather, can lead to higher evaporation rates, while excessive humidity may reduce the impact. Even during rainy weather, pools should be properly covered to avoid debris and unnecessary evaporation, which can worsen during post-storm heat.
Sun and Wind: The Double-Edged Sword of Florida Weather
Florida’s weather is known for being unpredictable, with sudden rains followed by intense heat. Sunlight is one of the biggest contributors to water evaporation, particularly in the hot, dry summer months. Chlorine and other pool chemicals are also prone to evaporating when exposed to heat, although stabilizers can help slow down this process.
When a pool is uncovered for long periods, it will lose more water—around a quarter-inch per day during hot, dry weather. At night, the air cools down, causing heat to rise, which can further increase evaporation. A good pool cover can help retain both heat and moisture, keeping evaporation to a minimum and preventing costly refills.
The Cost of Evaporation and How to Manage It
In areas like Florida where drought conditions can make refilling a pool expensive, every drop counts. A pool can lose between 60-125 gallons of water per day due to evaporation, depending on its size. This can result in added costs, especially during the dry summer months. To reduce evaporation, turn off decorative water features such as fountains or waterfalls, and consider not using the pool heater, as this increases water loss.
Windbreaks, such as fences or hedges, can also help reduce evaporation by blocking the wind, but they won’t completely eliminate water loss due to sunlight and heat.
Checking for Leaks
If your pool is losing more than a quarter-inch of water per day, it’s time to check for leaks. Don’t assume that evaporation is solely responsible. Look for any signs of water puddles around the pool deck or check fittings and drains for leaks. These could be signs that something more serious is happening beneath the surface.
Leak Detection and Repair Services
If you’re concerned about your pool losing more water than expected, Aquatic Surfaces offers expert leak detection services. Our certified technicians can quickly identify any plumbing issues, leaks, or cracks that might be affecting your pool. We specialize in pool resurfacing, pool renovations, and pool equipment repair to keep your pool in top shape.
Don’t wait for a small problem to become a big one. Contact Aquatic Surfaces for reliable and professional pool services. Let us help ensure your pool is not only beautiful but also functioning optimally.
This blog was designed to educate pool owners about the causes of water loss and how to identify potential leaks. At Aquatic Surfaces, we offer comprehensive services to address all your pool maintenance needs, from resurfacing and remodeling to leak detection and pool equipment repair. Call us today to schedule an inspection and keep your pool in perfect condition.
