How to Repair a Leaking Inground Skimmer Pipe

Losing more than 2 inches of pool water per week may signal a leaky skimmer or pipe.

Swimming pool skimmers catch debris such as hair, oil, leaves and other rubbish before it absorbs enough water to sink to the bottom of the pool. The skimmer consists of a basket, lid and weir that pulls in about one-eighth inch of water off the top. A weir refers to a flapper gate that automatically opens and closes to allow water to flow into the skimmer. There are two types of skimmers: above-ground and in-ground.

Things You'll Need

• Masonry saw
• Jackhammer
• PVC pipe
• Hacksaw
• Measuring Tape
• PVC fittings
• PVC primer
• PVC cement
• Concrete

Instructions

1. Speak to your building code inspector to find out the requirements for making the necessary repairs. Some municipalities may require a permit before starting the job. Discuss the project with your pool supply vendor or pool contractor to find out the piping methods or materials for replacing the leaky pipe. Some recommend a rigid fix piping system that utilizes 1 1/2-inch schedule 40 PVC material. Some may prefer flexible schedule 40 PVC pipe for the entire system.

2. Mark the cut line on the concrete. Use a masonry saw to cut the concrete. Remove the concrete with the use of a jackhammer to get to the pipe. Depending on the location of the leak, this could require removal of the concrete liner from near the skimmer down to the ground and at any point leading to the pump.

3. Cut out the leaky portion of PVC pipe. This may present an opportunity to replace old piping, especially if it was poorly installed. For example, many pool installers recommend against having a rigid 90-degree elbow on the leading from the skimmer to the pool filter pump.

4. Attach a straight fitting or flexible pipe to the bottom of the skimmer. This method allows for heaving and shifting of the ground and lessens the possibility of breaks or cracks. Measure the pipe length and use a hacksaw the cut the 1 1/2-inch PVC pipe. Clean away burrs from the edges of the pipe. Conduct a dry fit for the entire layout before permanently cementing the PVC pipe components together.

5. Start laying pipe from the skimmer and work to the pump location. Use couplings to join sections of pipe and elbows to make turns around obstructions. Take particular care not to get soil or other debris in the new pipes. Clean the edges of pipes and apply primer. Uses PVC cement to glue the PVC components together. Repair the concrete.

References

• Swimming Pool Parts: Swimming Pool Repair Tips
• Thomas Pool Service: Deck and Coping Replacement
• Pool Center: Pool Info
• Pool 1: Basic Plumbing Diagram