5 Common Pool Leaks & How We Fix Them

A swimming pool is one of the best investments for comfort, recreation, and luxury especially in Dubai’s warm climate. But even the most well-built pools can develop leaks over time due to wear, shifting ground, or small cracks. While a minor leak might seem harmless, it can lead to costly repairs, increased water bills, and even structural damage if left unaddressed.

In this post, we’ll break down the five most common pool leaks, how professionals identify them, and the expert repair methods that ensure your pool stays watertight and worry-free.

Pool Plumbing Leaks

Plumbing leaks are among the most frequent and hard-to-detect issues in swimming pools. These leaks often occur underground in the suction or return lines that connect to the pool pump and filtration system. Over time, soil movement, corrosion, or poor installation can cause the pipes to crack or joints to loosen. Signs You Might Have a Plumbing Leak:

Sudden drop in water level even when the pool is not in use
Air bubbles in the return jets
Gurgling noises from the plumbing lines
Excess moisture or soggy patches around the pool area

How We Fix It: At Pool Tech Dubai, we use advanced pressure testing and electronic leak detection to pinpoint the exact location of the plumbing leak without unnecessary excavation. Once identified, our team isolates the affected section and repairs or replaces the damaged pipes using PVC welding and pressure-resistant fittings to restore full integrity. This ensures a long-term, leak-free solution.

Pool Shell Cracks

Cracks in the concrete or fiberglass shell are another common source of pool leaks. These can result from temperature changes, ground shifting, or improper curing during construction. Even small hairline cracks can allow water to seep through, leading to gradual structural damage. Signs You Might Have a Shell Crack:

Visible cracks along the pool walls or floor
Water loss that continues even when pumps are off
Discoloration or algae growth around the crack

How We Fix It: Our technicians start with a dye test to confirm the leak source. Depending on the severity, we apply epoxy injection or hydraulic cement sealing to close the cracks. For extensive structural issues, we reinforce the shell using fiberglass matting and resin application. These solutions not only fix the leaks but also strengthen your pool against future stress.

Pool Skimmer Leaks

The skimmer is the part of your pool that filters out debris floating on the surface. Since it’s integrated into both the pool structure and plumbing, it’s a common point for leaks, especially at the connection between the skimmer body and the pool wall. Signs You Might Have a Skimmer Leak:

Noticeable water loss near the skimmer area
Damp soil or cracks around the skimmer box
Air being sucked into the pump system

How We Fix It: We first perform a skimmer dye test to locate the leak precisely. Minor cracks can be sealed using pool-grade epoxy or silicone sealants. For larger gaps or damaged skimmer throats, we use a skimmer replacement or re-bonding method, ensuring a watertight connection between the skimmer and pool wall.

Pool Light Leaks

Pool light fixtures are beautiful additions, but they can also become leak points if not properly sealed. The conduit that houses the electrical wiring may allow water to seep in through the back of the light niche. Signs You Might Have a Light Leak:

Water level drops until it reaches the light fixture
Air bubbles seen around the light housing
Visible moisture or corrosion inside the light niche

How We Fix It: Our experts inspect the light niche and conduit for cracks or deteriorated sealant. We then apply a specialized pool putty or flexible epoxy to reseal the conduit and backfill area. If the light housing is corroded, we replace it with a waterproof LED fixture to ensure safety and durability.

Pool Tile and Fitting Leaks

Leaking tiles, returns, or jets are common, especially in older pools or after resurfacing. When grout lines crack or fittings loosen, water can escape behind the tiles and weaken the pool’s structure. Signs You Might Have Tile or Fitting Leaks:

Missing or cracked tiles around waterline
Watermarks or wet spots behind pool walls
Reduced water pressure at return jets

How We Fix It: We remove the affected tiles, re-grout the area with water-resistant tile adhesive, and pressure test fittings for integrity. For fittings, we reseal with thread seal tape and epoxy coating, ensuring every component is watertight and visually seamless.

How We Detect Pool Leaks, The Smart Way

Instead of guesswork or draining your pool, we use non-invasive electronic leak detection and pressure testing tools to find the exact source. Our process includes:

Acoustic leak detection using specialized sensors
Dye and pressure testing for plumbing and shell leaks
Thermal imaging for underground moisture mapping

This technology-driven approach saves time, reduces repair costs, and ensures accuracy.

Why Professional Leak Repair Matters

DIY fixes might seem appealing but often offer only temporary relief. Pool leak repairs require a detailed understanding of hydraulics, construction materials, and sealing techniques. Professional repair ensures:
Long-lasting results with minimal disruption
Prevention of recurring leaks
Reduced water and chemical waste
Preservation of your pool’s structural integrity

Final Thoughts

Pool leaks are more than just an inconvenience, they can lead to water waste, higher maintenance bills, and long-term damage if ignored. The good news is that with the right pool maintenance contractors and advanced detection tools, these problems can be resolved quickly and effectively.

At Pool Tech Dubai-one of the best swimming pool company in Dubai, we specialize in precise leak detection, efficient repair, and preventive maintenance, ensuring your pool remains safe, efficient, and ready for every season.

FAQs

How can I tell if my pool is leaking or just losing water through evaporation?
If your pool loses more than ¼ inch of water daily, even when unused, it may indicate a leak. You can confirm with a bucket test, fill a bucket with pool water and place it on a pool step. If the pool water drops faster than the bucket water, there’s likely a leak
What is the most common cause of pool leaks in Dubai?
The most frequent causes are plumbing line cracks and skimmer seal damage, often due to soil movement or heat expansion. Dubai’s climate can cause minor material shifts that eventually lead to water leakage.
How long does professional pool leak detection take?
Most leak inspections take 2–4 hours, depending on the pool size and accessibility. Advanced detection tools allow technicians to identify leaks accurately without draining the pool.
Can a pool leak increase my utility bills?
Yes. A continuous leak not only wastes water but also disrupts your chemical balance, making your filtration system work harder. This can significantly increase water and electricity costs over time.
How much does pool leak repair cost in Dubai?
The cost varies based on the leak’s location and severity. Minor surface cracks may cost a few hundred dirhams to fix, while underground plumbing leaks can require more extensive work. Professional inspection is the best way to get an accurate estimate.