May 31, 2025

Pool Leak Detection in Miami: How to Find and Fix Leaks in Your Swimming Pool

A pool leak can turn your backyard paradise into a source of frustration and costly repairs. If you’re a Miami pool owner, understanding pool leak detection is essential to protect your investment and keep your swimming pool in perfect shape. The Pool Guys, Miami’s leading pool leak detection and cleaning experts, are here to guide you through the process. We use Leaktronics’ industry-leading leak detection equipment to ensure accurate results and lasting repairs. This comprehensive guide will help you recognize signs of a leak, understand detection methods, and know when to call the professionals.

What Are the Signs of a Pool Leak?

The first step in pool leak detection is recognizing the warning signs. If your pool is losing water faster than usual, you may have a leak. Common indicators include:

  • Sudden drops in water level not explained by evaporation or splash-out
  • Wet spots or soggy ground around the pool deck
  • Cracks in the pool shell, tile line, or pool wall
  • Increased chemical usage or difficulty balancing pool water
  • Unexplained algae growth or water discoloration
  • Air bubbles coming from return jets when the pump is running
  • Higher water bills than normal

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to investigate further or call a pool leak detection company for help.

How Does Pool Leak Detection Work?

Pool leak detection is a step-by-step process that combines visual inspection, simple at-home tests, and advanced professional techniques. At The Pool Guys, we start with a thorough inspection around the pool, checking for visible cracks, wet spots, and signs of water loss. If a leak is suspected, we use specialized tools and methods to pinpoint the exact location.

Our highly-trained technicians rely on Leaktronics’ hydrophones and electronic listening devices to “hear” leaks in underground pipes, pool plumbing, and fittings. This technology allows us to find leaks quickly and accurately, even if they’re hidden under concrete or landscaping.

What Is the Bucket Test for Pool Leak Detection?

The bucket test is an easy, at-home method to determine if your pool is leaking or if water loss is due to evaporation. Here’s how to do it:

  • Fill your pool to its normal level.
  • Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on the first or second step so it’s partially submerged.
  • Mark the water level inside the bucket and on the pool wall.
  • Turn off any auto-fill devices.
  • After 24 hours, compare the water levels. If the pool water drops more than the bucket water, you likely have a leak.

This simple bucket test for pool leaks can help you confirm if you need professional leak detection service.

How Do Professionals Find a Leak in Your Pool?

Professional pool leak detection goes beyond the basics. Our team uses a combination of pressure testing, dye testing, and electronic listening devices. Pressure testing involves sealing off sections of pool plumbing and pressurizing the lines. If the pressure drops, it signals a leak in that section of pipe. Dye tests use pool leak detection dye to visually track water movement near suspected leak areas—if the dye is pulled into a crack or fitting, you’ve found the leak.

Electronic listening devices and hydrophones help us detect the exact location of leaks in underground pipes, skimmers, main drains, and return lines. This minimizes the need for digging and ensures we repair only what’s necessary.

What Are the Most Common Locations for Leaks in a Pool?

Leaks can occur in many places, but some areas are more prone than others:

  • Pool plumbing, especially underground pipes and return lines
  • Skimmer and main drain fittings
  • Tile line and pool wall cracks
  • Pool light niches and around pool steps
  • Pool liner seams in vinyl pools
  • Equipment pad (pump, filter, heater connections)

Our leak detection process checks all these locations to ensure no leak goes unnoticed.

How Do Plumbing Leaks Differ from Structural Leaks?

Plumbing leaks are found in the network of pipes that move water to and from your pool. These leaks often occur underground and can be hard to spot without professional equipment. Structural leaks, on the other hand, happen in the pool shell, tile line, or liner. Both types of leaks can cause water loss, but plumbing leaks are more likely to create wet spots around the pool or cause the pool to lose water even when the pump is off.

Understanding the difference helps us target the right detection and repair strategy for your pool.

What Role Does Dye Testing Play in Pool Leak Detection?

Dye testing is a valuable tool for pinpointing leaks in the pool shell, around fittings, or at the tile line. Using a pool-safe dye, we carefully apply it near suspected leak areas. If the dye is drawn into a crack or fitting, it reveals the location of the leak. Dye tests are especially useful for finding small leaks in hard-to-see places and confirming repairs after work is done.

How Does Pressure Testing Help Locate Pool Plumbing Leaks?

Pressure testing is the gold standard for finding leaks in pool plumbing. We isolate individual lines—such as the skimmer, main drain, or return lines—and pressurize them with air or water. If the pressure gauge shows a drop, it means there’s a leak in that section. This method allows us to pinpoint leaks in underground pool plumbing without unnecessary digging or disruption.

Can You Repair Leaks in Pool Liners and Underground Pipes?

Yes! Many leaks in vinyl pool liners can be patched with special adhesive and vinyl patches. For underground pipes, we use advanced methods to minimize digging, such as pipe relining or targeted repairs. Our team at The Pool Guys is experienced in repairing leaks in all types of pools, including in-ground and concrete pools, spas, and pool plumbing.

When Should You Call a Professional Pool Leak Detection Company?

If you suspect a leak, notice ongoing water loss, or see signs like wet spots or cracks, it’s time to call a professional. The Pool Guys in Miami offer fast, accurate leak detection and repair using Leaktronics’ state-of-the-art equipment. Our experts will find the leak, explain your options, and provide a solution that protects your pool and your wallet.

Key Points to Remember About Pool Leak Detection:

  • Sudden water loss, wet spots, and cracks are common signs of a pool leak.
  • The bucket test is a simple way to check for leaks at home.
  • Dye testing and pressure testing are essential for accurate leak detection.
  • Plumbing leaks often occur in underground pipes, skimmers, and return lines.
  • Professional leak detection uses advanced tools like hydrophones and electronic listening devices.
  • The Pool Guys use Leaktronics equipment for precise, non-invasive leak detection in Miami.
  • Timely detection and repair of leaks save water, prevent costly repairs, and keep your pool in top shape.

Don’t let a hidden leak drain your fun or your wallet. Contact The Pool Guys for expert pool leak detection and repair in Miami—so your swimming pool stays sparkling and worry-free!