Leaks in an Inground Swimming Pool
An inground swimming pool that seems to be losing water without any reason could indicate a leak that requires immediate repair to prevent the problem from becoming bigger. Identify the location and repair the leak yourself. Does this Spark an idea?
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Inspection
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Inspect the pool thoroughly to identify the location of the leak. Sometimes cracks over the base or walls of a concrete or tile pool are visible and are easy to locate. For leaks that are difficult to spot, eject food coloring from a dropper into the pool water so the leak pulls it toward itself, indicating the exact location.
Repair Procedure
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Drain the water from the inground pool. Extend the marked crack in the pool 1/4 inch on each side with a grinder. Also make it 1/2-inch deep. Insert pool patching plaster or pool epoxy into the crack with your gloved hand or utility knife and extend it around the crack. Leave the plaster to cure overnight before filling the pool with water.
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Considerations
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Sometimes the food coloring ejected in the water flows around the pool without being sucked into any crack, indicating another source of leak. Inspect the pool pump, fittings and filter for excessive moisture or drips that indicate they are leaking. Tighten the equipment using a hose clamp, or replace if that fails to correct the problem.
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References
Resources
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