How to Fix an Air Leak in an Inflatable Swimming Pool

Don't let a leak spoil your time in an inflatable pool.

Inflatable pools have the benefit of a much smaller price tag than most other types of pools, but they come with the drawback of possible leaks. While leaks can put a damper on a sunny afternoon, it shouldn't cause too much stress, as the leaks are easy to fix. Due to the frequency at which inflatable pool leaks occur, many pool manufacturers offer specialized vinyl patches. Best of all, these patches cost a fraction of what a new pool costs.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Dish soap
• Spray bottle
• Paper towel
• Vinyl pool patch

Instructions

1. Locate the leak in the pool. If you can't find it, fill a spray bottle with water and 1 tsp. of liquid dish soap. Shake the solution to mix it up. Spray it on the surface of the pool in 1-square-foot sections at a time. The air from the leak will cause bubbles to form when you spray the solution on it.

2. Let all of the air out of the pool. Don't lose track of where the leak is.

3. Dry the leaky area with paper towel. The surface must be completely dry for the patch adhesive to hold.

4. Apply a vinyl pool patch over the leak according to the package directions. Most patch kits simply require you to apply adhesive to the back of the patch and stick it over the leak, but some products may differ so you must follow the directions on the label.

Tips & Warnings

• Find vinyl pool patches almost anywhere that inflatable pools are sold.

References

• CBC News: Inflatable Pools