How to Repair a Pool Skimmer Leak

Having an in-ground pool requires routine maintenance and upkeep. Many times throughout the summer months, it becomes noticeable that the water level of the pool has dropped. Most often this is caused by evaporation created by the intense summer sun, and there is no reason for concern. It is remedied simply by adding water. Other times, if it has been raining and the water level still continues to drop an inch or more per day, there may be a pool skimmer box leak. This is a weak area of the pool and probably the most common area where leaks occur. Read on to learn how to repair a pool skimmer leak.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Red food dye
• Pool repair putty epoxy stick

1. With the pool pump off, remove the cover to the pool skimmer box. The pool water level must be above the area where the skimmer box meets the pool wall. If it is not, add water to the pool until it is at least 1 inch above this seam.

2. Add a few drops of red food coloring into the water at the skimmer box and watch to see if the water is flowing. If it is flowing through the pool wall at the seam, you have located the leak.

3. Using pool repair putty/epoxy stick adhesive sealant is very easy. Remove a piece from the tube and knead it with your fingers until pliable. Bring it under water where the leak is located and seal the edge of the skimmer box to the pool wall at the location of the leak. Press the putty and smooth along the seam with fingers. This will cure to white within 30 minutes.

4. If the water level continues to drop, check for leaks following the same instructions. Other common areas for leaks are the areas around the vacuum and return fittings.

Tips & Warnings

• When there is a leak, the level of the water can help determine where the leak is located. If the level stops at the skimmer box, that is the first place to check. If it stops below the return fitting, then the leak is probably in that area.

Resources

• More tips for pool maintenance