Losing a little bit of water each week from evaporation is normal. Think your pool is losing more than it should? This can be frustrating and worrisome. Especially, for new pool owners excited to have the first summer with your new pool. At Clover, we're dedicated to helping you ensure that your pool remains the centerpiece of fun and relaxation. The purpose of this blog is to equip you with the knowledge to swiftly locate and address leaks in your above ground pool.

Having a leak in your liner can become a hassle. Just so you know it is normal and probably inevitable to occur during the course of pool ownership. The right approach, detecting and repairing leaks can be straightforward, preventing further damage and saving you significant time and money.

Identify the signs of a leak or hole

Determining whether your pool has a leak is the first step. Signs include a noticeable drop in water levels, wet areas around the pool that can't be explained by splashing, overflow or rain.

Step-by-Step Leak Detection

1. Check the Filtration System

Begin with the pool's filtration system since issues here are common yet straightforward to remedy. Inspect hoses, connections, and the pump for wetness or leaks.

2. Inspect Skimmers and Returns

Leaks often occur around the skimmer and return jets. You can usually see drips going down the pool wall or wet spots forming on the ground.

3. Examine the Liner

The liner is a common leak location. Look for signs of wear, tears, or holes, particularly near fittings, ladders, or pool walls. Underwater goggles help to find holes in liners. Putting dye near these areas and observe can also help finding the hole. If the dye is sucked toward a spot, you've located a leak. Start around wet areas around the pool and soft spots under the liner are common if there is a leak.

4. Repairing the Leak

• For small holes or tears: Clean the area around the leak and apply a pool patch following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• For issues with fittings or gaskets: Replace or reseal these components as necessary, ensuring a tight, leak-free fit.

Helping Your Pool's Longevity

Be aware of what is in your pool and how things like the ladder are touching the liner. This can help prevent holes developing. Ladders, toys and cleaning supplies can create holes if not used properly. Bad water chemistry can also damage the liner. It can make the liner bridal and discolor the liner, shortening the life of the liner.

Beyond leak repair, regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your pool. Here are a few tips to keep your pool in top condition:

• Regular Cleaning: Keep the pool free of debris to prevent damage to the liner and filtration system.
• Water Chemistry: Maintain balanced chemical levels to protect the liner from degradation.
• Seasonal Inspections: Check for signs of wear and potential leak sources, such as cracks in the filtration system or deteriorating seals, at the start and end of each pool season.

A well maintained pool is the key to summer fun. Embrace it and there are many tools and educational videos online to help. As always, Clover is here to help with any questions. And remember, we test your water for free and will assist you with any questions you have.