Pool Leak Detection Melbourne: How to Tell If Your Pool Is Leaking

Is Your Pool Actually Leaking?

Melbourne pools lose water to evaporation, splash-out, and backwashing — particularly in summer. Before assuming a leak, do the bucket test to confirm water loss is above normal evaporation rates. Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on the first step so it's partially submerged. Mark the water level inside the bucket and the pool water level outside. Leave it 24 hours without running the pump. If the pool has lost noticeably more water than the bucket, you have a leak.

Normal evaporation in Melbourne is typically 2–3mm per day in summer. Consistent losses above 5–6mm per day suggest a leak.

Where Pool Leaks Typically Occur

Pool leaks most commonly occur at penetrations and fittings — light fittings, return jets, skimmer boxes, and main drains are all common failure points. Cracks in the pool shell or delamination of the pool surface are another source. The most difficult leaks to locate are in the underground pipework connecting the pool to the pump and filter equipment, as these pipes can be anywhere beneath the pool surrounds or garden.

How ATC Plumbing Finds Pool Leaks

ATC Plumbing uses pressure testing and acoustic leak detection to locate pool leaks without unnecessary excavation. Pressure testing isolates individual pipe runs to identify which section is losing pressure. Acoustic detection then pinpoints the exact location by listening for the sound signature of water escaping through the ground. This approach identifies the leak location within centimetres — minimising the excavation required for repair.

Dye Testing for Fittings and Shell Leaks

For suspected leaks at fittings, lights, and surface cracks, dye testing is used. A small amount of dye is released near the suspected leak point — if there's a breach, the dye is drawn toward it by water pressure. This identifies whether individual fittings need resealing or the shell requires patching.

Suspect a pool leak? Call ATC Plumbing on 1300 282 758. We service Melbourne's south-east including Oakleigh, Brighton, Cheltenham, Moorabbin, and surrounding areas.