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Scroll
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Using
the right products for leak repairs!!! |
Pool and
Spa leaks can involve cracks, in walls,
pipes, skimmer, fittings and equipment.
The
Torque-Lock system uses staples,
to stabilize a structural, concrete
crack, making a permanent, rock-solid
repair.
Fix A Leak is the easiest way to
seal many common pool and spa leaks.
Ultra Poly One Coat is a hybrid
epoxy coating, that can be used to
refinish masonry or fiberglass pools and
spas, after the repair work has been
completed. |
Structural Concrete Crack
Repairs |
Fix A Leak Sealant |
Hybrid-Epoxy Pool and Spa
Coating |
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Product
and Ordering Information |
Product
and Ordering Information |
Product and Ordering Information |
If you have a pool or spa water
testing need, we should have the
product.
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Scroll down to read through some
Question & Answer information.
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Boxer Adhesives products,
manufactured by
Union Laboratories, produces vinyl liner,
underwater repair patches and an
underwater epoxy, for sealing
leaks in a variety of material
and places.
A
ColorQ 2X is a 2nd generation,
Bluetooth, Waterproof, all-digital tester,
that can
measure all the common test factors. There is a model, for every sanitizing
need.
Proper chemistry
can help avoid some types of
corrosive leaks.
A drop-in
Premium Pool Graphics Mat can,
if you're lucky, cover the repair or
patch work, that fixed a leak. |
Underwater Repair Products |
ColorQ All-Digital Water Testers |
Premium Graphic Mosaic Pool Mats |
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Product Information |
Product and Ordering Information |
Product and Ordering Information |
If you have a pool or spa water
testing need, we should have the
product.
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Scroll down to read through some
Question & Answer information.
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How to treat and repair pool leaks? |
Swimming pools
can develop leaks as the result of routine wear
and tear, carelessness, accidents or the effects
of wintertime conditions. Not all loss of water
can be attributed to a pool leak. Losses, due to
evaporation, splash out or backwashing, are
normal and are expected. Excessive water loss,
more than 1/4"-1/2" daily, should definitely be
investigated. Products are available to help
determine if there is a pool leak, where the
leak is located and to help seal the leak. There
are companies that specialize in pool leak
detection and repair. If problems arise,
refer to the
Pool Problems Page, as a source of
problem-solving information, broken down into
various categories. Scroll down the page
and click on the linked
keywords,
catch phrases
or images, in the archived answers below, to access additional information, on that topic or product.
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Some Fix A Leak users have sent
us some comments. We would
love to add some more, so feel
free to send them in.
Fix A Leak - Feedback |
▼
Helpful,
Problem-Solving Information, in a question and
answer format.
▼ |
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►
Fix A Leak's Effect On Heater?
I have a DE filter and Water Heater.
I think that the Hot Tub ....which
is attached to pool....has a leak at
the water jets. The jets go from the
HT into a cement enclosure for
pool/spa. I know I must remove DE
filter before adding sealer. What do
I do about water heater? Cannot
disconnect from pool/spa. Can the
sealer run through water heater???
THANKS!
Mike S., 3/21/2021
Fix A
Leak will not affect the heater.
It only forms a crust, that makes a
long lasting seal, after it has
seeped out of the leak site.
So far as the heater is concerned,
it will simply pass through.
For more details, about the use of
Fix A Leak, use this link:
Pool
Leak Problem. Fix A Leak should
be used as directed, for best
results. I hope that this is
helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
3/22/2021
►
Probable Main Drain Leak?
Hi Alan. Through the normal
elimination methods we have decided
that the drain tubing is leaking.
Not wanting to dig up half the
garden & a load of concrete paving I
was looking at other solutions.
I could cap the drain as I use an
automatic pool cleaner & the drain
valve is always closed. The only
issue here is removing it should we
wish to drain the pool at a later
date. I saw Fix-a-Leak &
thought maybe this would work. At
the moment my pool is almost empty
(ready for repainting) so would not
be able to run it with the pump
without filling the pool up. Could I
run it into the drain directly
without the pump, would this work?
My pool is concrete, inground, 15
years old with a Jacuzzi laser sand
filter. Any help would be much
appreciated. Regards,
Wendy,
4/22/2020
I would not choose to start digging.
Even then, I would call in
leak
detection expert or invest in
leak detection technology and
see where
the problem
is. It might not be in the worse of
all possible areas. Pouring
Fix A Leak, into the drain might
or might not work. There's no assure
that it will get
carried to the right spot, but it
might be worth a try. I would
choose close off the main drain, at
both ends. To make up for the loss
of circulation, I would do two
things. Adding a
robotic pool cleaner, which will
act as a moving main drain.
This is for the long term, so I
would choose a quality product.
Not having a main drain will
diminish circulation, chemical and
heat distribution. Replacing
existing return jet fitting, with
The
Pool Circulator, will improve all
three, by creating a spiraling
return flow, that will reach
throughout the pool. I hope
that the information provided was
helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
4/22/2020
► Measuring
The Pool Leak?
I have a 30,000 gal inground pool. I
just got a new liner a filter and pump installed last week.
I had got pressure testing done on my 1 return and 2
sections lines before this job as the pool is old that was
normal. Now I am losing about 1/2 an inch of water every
day. I also see a air bubble out of the return every 15
seconds or so when the filter is off. Could you please guide
me in the correct direction as to what needs to be done? Is
it certain that I have a pool leak? Thanks.
Gary, 7/15/2018
A 1/2" a day is about what you would expect to lose, if the
pool was in hot, direct Sun and in a breezy, dry area. I
suspect that you do have a leak, but the loss, is partially
due to evaporation. If you would like to confirm the extent
of the leak do this: place a plastic bucket with water on
the top step of the pool, adjust the water level to that of
the pool and mark the height of the water level, both in the
bucket and in the pool. The next day determine the water
loss in the pool and in the bucket. The loss in the bucket
is due to evaporation. If the pool lost more, that portion
is due to a pool leak. Usually, leaks in the suction lines
show up as air leaks (aerated return flow), when the pump is
running. If pool water is leaking out, air should not be
bubbling in. This would also apply to the main drain
line. I would check all of the seals, gaskets, o-rings and
connections. There are dye solutions that can help you
locate a pool leak. There are companies that specialize in
pool leak detection. And there is
Fix A Leak: a product that
make a long-lasting seal, with small pool leaks. I hope that
this information proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 7/16/2018
► Possible
Main Drain Leak?
My pool has been losing water over the
winter months. I have been adding water to help prevent the
cover from falling in. I feel sure that the main drain is
involved. Is there anything I can do before springtime, to
repair the pool leak? Thanks for the help.
Brett S., Coram, NY, 12/4/2008
Adding Fix A Leak might just do the trick. To give the
product a better chance of actually reaching the main drain
area, you could pour the product down a length of 2" poly
pipe. The product is much heavier than water and will sink
down through the pipe. Just direct it close to the main
drain. As the pool water leaks out, the product should find
it way to the site. The repair could be very long-lasting!
Look for the pool water losses to slow or stop, as a
positive sign. If the leaking fails to stop, it may be due
to a cracked pipe and might need to be located and replaced.
A professional pool-spa leak detection service will use
modern techniques to locate the leak and be able to perform
the necessary repairs. If the cost of any repair work is
prohibitive, you have the option of plugging the main drain,
closing off the other end and using
The
Pool Circulator to provide better circulation, using
only the skimmers. Good luck.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 12/4/2008
► Probable
Pool Liner Leak?
I need to ask a question about my
pool. I had a new liner put in two years ago because ants
had gone under the pool liner. It is an above ground pool. I
replaced the filter and chlorinator this past fall. So far
the only thing not replaced has been the pump. I just lifted
the tarp and the water level has gone down a lot since
November. How can I tell if there is a pool leak? I cannot
get too much help for my husband is 76 and medicine is
taking a toll on my wages at work. I need to know a simple
way to maybe detect it myself. Please advise me if you can.
Thank you.
Maggie, Charleston, SC, 3/4/2011
This does sound like a pool leak, as water loss should have
been relatively small, unless the winter cover was not
effectively sealing the pool. The only source of a leak
would be the liner and is probably small. If there are no
signs of puddling, the pool leak is probably on the pool
floor. I suggest that you mark the current water level and
seal the pool. Check again in a few weeks. If the water
level is still dropping, the pool leak is at or below the
current height. If the water level did not drop, the leak is
at the current level. There are leak detecting dye
solutions that can be dropped into a still pool and can help
pinpoint the location; allowing you to use a
vinyl repair
kit to repair the liner. The
Boxer Adhesives line of repair
products can even be used underwater, if necessary. If these
efforts do not locate the leak, you should give
Fix A Leak a try. It seals
all sorts of pool leaks, without
draining or damage. Good luck and I hope that this
information proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 3/5/2011
►
Using Fix A Leak, With A Salt
Chlorine Generator?
I have a leak in my pool, which has
an inline salt chlorine generator.
Do I have to do anything different,
other than what is spelled out in
your expanded supplemental
instructions? Thank you.
Brian, Albany, GA, 11/6/2017
The
presence of a
salt chlorine generator makes no
difference in how Fix A Leak is
used. Just follow, the
expanded instructions. This is
important, because only a limited
amount of information is printed on
the bottle. I hope that this
is helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster,
11/6/2017
► Suction
Line Leak?
I have an air leak on the suction side
of my inground pool. I was wondering if the Marlig leak
sealer is appropriate. As I have two skimmers, I have been
able to turn off one suction side and isolate it. I only
need to add enough Fix A Leak to treat 70 feet of 1-1/2” i.d. line. I have the ability to pressurize this line to
help force the sealant to the hole. Is there any benefit to
this? Thank you.
Denny M., 5/16/2006
Fix A Leak should work well to seal this kind of pool leak,
when used, in this manner.
By pass the filter and pour the product into the skimmer,
where the suspect line attaches. Pressurizing the line can
help. The leaking pool water needs to carry the product to
the damaged spot. Ordinarily, with suction line leaks, the
lines going in and out of the pump,
have to be reversed.
Otherwise, the air getting sucked in
will prevent the product, from
making a seal. This is not
always easy to do. I hope that this will prove helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/16/2006
► Reversing
The Flow?
I want to use the Fix a leak product.
I have a small pool leak in my suction line (or I suspect).
I don't understand the instructions that say to "reverse the
flow of water at 5 or 10 psi". How is this accomplished? How
do I reverse the flow of water so my out-take becomes my
intake, etc? Thanks for your help.
Tim J., 3/15/2008
When air gets sucked in, while the pump is running, it is
necessary to reverse the flow. This helps the
Fix A Leak
exit the site of the leak and produce a seal. To reverse the
flow, you must switch the hoses going in and out of the
pump. Water will enter through the returns and exit through
the skimmers. Make sure the filter is bypassed. After the
leaking has stopped, you can restore the system. Good luck
and I hope that this information has been useful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 3/15/2008
► Standing
Water Level?
We have a 10 year old inground pool
with steel walls and a vinyl liner. The liner was replaced
about 4 years ago. We currently lose about 2-3 inches of
water every 2-3 days and have water that stands in the yard
all through the summer. When prepping the pool for winter I
allowed the pool leak to continue without adding water for
several days. The water level receded below the skimmers,
jets and continued for another couple of inches then
stopped. I looked around the liner but could not find a
hole. It also appears that the water level in the yard is
resting at the same level of the pool water level. In the
winter, the water in the yard dries up. I have suspected a
leak in the main drain that stops once the water in the pool
is even with the water level in the yard - possible? Any
thoughts or suggestions?
Scott H., Kentucky, 5/16/2011
Possible? Yes. If it is as you described and the return flow
is not aerated, the pool leak should be in the main drain
line or in the return lines, at the height where the leaking
stops. If the return flow is aerated, the pool leak is in
the suction lines and at the level of the standing water.
Fix A Leak might help, as it can permanently seal a pool
leak as big as 1/8" in diameter. The pool water loss
indicates a sizable leak and you might consider a pool-spa
leak detection service. This will help minimize the damage
to the surrounding area. I hope that this information is
helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/16/2011
► Salt Loss =
Water Loss?
I live in Florida, I have a 11000 gal.
concrete pool/spa with a spill over. Temps. have been 60's
at night, 75-80 during the day. I lose about 1/2 in. of
water a day. The pool was installed 12/01/08. 80 lbs of salt
was added Feb. 1st. and another 40 lbs. on March 20th. The
pool installers have checked for leaks and only found a
small pool leak in the skimmer. They have returned to check
again and state there are no leaks and the water loss of 3
in. a week is normal and the salt addition is normal as
well. Everything I read on line states otherwise, as does
the local pool company where I have my water tested. I have
done the bucket test in the pool and informed installers of
the difference of 1/4 inch. I noticed that the spa when the
pump is turned off stays at the spill over level for several
hours but by morning is down about 1 in. They said they
checked the spa as well. What is the average salt loss?
what is your opinion. Thank you.
Kathe, Florida, 3/27/2009
A loss of 3 inches a weeks seems excessive, at this time of
the year. Besides the bucket test shows a 1/4" loss and that
seems to explain the salt loss and the excessive weekly loss
of water. You have a small pool leak and the
proof is the
salt additions. The only way salt is lost is through pump
outs, backwashing or splash outs. 120 pounds of salt
suggests a loss 4-6000 gallons of water, if the salt
additions were really necessary and based on accurate
testing. For salt testing, I recommended the
Salt PockeTester, as
it is simple to use and accurate. There are dye solutions
that can help you locate a leak. A drop or two can be added
to a still pool, near possible sites of a leak, and can help
trace the way to the location, as the pool water leaks out.
Fix A Leak is a product that can permanently seal leaks as
big as 1/8" in diameter. It works in gunite, fiberglass or
vinyl pools and in the plumbing, as well. Easy to use and
will not require that the pool be drained. I hope that this
information proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 3/28/2009
►
Leak In Radiant Floor Heating System?
Hi, about
18 months ago I bought a bottle of Fix a Leak to see if
it would solve a leak problem in a concrete radiant
floor with copper lines. I have a ranch house built in
1952 that is hot water boiler heated by copper lines in
concrete. When a hole develops in one of the lines it
can be a radiant floor killer. If a company is willing
to try and fix a radiant floor leak, the demolition of
finished floors and concrete and the cost is incredible,
and the fix may not work.
The
manifold is made up of six copper lines, each about 200
feet long in concrete. So I isolated the copper line
with the leak. Using an external sump pump and a 5
gallon tub I pumped Fix a Leak though the line for 10
hours. I then cleared the line with air and let it set
for 48 hours. I pressured tested the line and it held.
It has been back in service under pressure for 18 months
with no pressure loss. The floor is heated with 160
degrees water at 15 to 20 psi. Fix a Leak saved my
radiant floor.
Many radiant heated floor systems have been shut down
because of small line leaks that can't be found or
fixed. Home owners are then faced with the cost and
installation of a whole new HVAC system.
Please feel free to use
my experience to inform your customers who may have
radiant floor systems.
Mike,
1/26/2017
Thank you for sharing your experience, with
Fix A Leak. It does
work!!! It has been used, for a variety of other
uses: geothermal leaks,
stone roof leaks and even
leaks in pipes aboard a nuclear powered
submarine. I will certainly add this letter to the
Q and A, on the website. Glad to heat that you're
keeping warm and taking the time to write.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 1/27/2017
► Made The New York
Times?
I have a sinking feeling that my
inground pool has been losing water and mentioned it to a
pool-owning-friend. He mentioned that there was an article
about repairing a pool leak, in the real estate section of
the New York Times, around the end of July. Unfortunately,
he did not keep the article and that weeks Times is off to
the recycling plant. If possible, could you shed some light
on what it said?
George N., Roslyn, NY 8/11/2010
Basically, it went through some of the options. First make
sure you have a leak and that the loss is not simply
evaporation. This can be done with the bucket test. Place a
5-gallon plastic pail, on the first or second step, so that
it is just a few inches above the water level, after being
filled. Adjust the height, inside the bucket, to that of the
pool and mark the level, both inside and outside. After 24
hours check. If the pool level is lower than the bucket
level, you have a leak, that amounts to this difference.
This technique cancels out the effect of evaporation. Where
is the pool leak? If the return flow is aerated, most likely
the leak is in the suction line. This type of leak stops,
when the pump is running. You could plug up the skimmers,
returns and main drain and see if the leaking stops. If it
stops, the leak is in the lines. If not, it is elsewhere.
Rather than simply digging up all the lines, until the leak
is found, call in a leak detection service. They use special
equipment to help locate the pool leak and simplify the
repair. You could try using a concentrated dye solution to
help detect a flow due to leak. Divers can be used to hunt
for a pool leak, using a dye solution. Different types of
leaks and pools require different detection techniques and a
pool-spa leak professional may be the best way to approach
the problem, especially when the water loss is more than 2
inches a day. The article mentioned that a pool owner can
try to fix the leak themselves, simply by adding
Fix A Leak. This
product has been around for nearly
forty years and is worth trying, if
the daily water loss is under two
inches. I hope that
this information is helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 8/12/2010
► Locating A
Pool Leak?
What is the easiest way to locate a
pool leak in an above ground pool?
Kathleen B., 8/7/2013
There are products for pool leak detection. Your local pool
supply retailer should carry a product such as concentrated
dye solutions, for helping to locate a pool leak. The dye is
put into a still pool, near places that may be leaking pool
water, such as light fixtures, returns, drains, skimmers and
any visible cracks. If there is a leak, near the place where
the dye is dripped, the dye will be sucked out at the point
of the pool leak. Depending upon the type and location of
the leak, it may be possible to add a pool leak sealer to
the appropriate location. A leak sealer product, such as
FIX
A LEAK can create a long-lasting seal in walls, floors or
the filtration system. Many times, a leak is either hard to
find or massive enough, where do-it-yourself techniques may
not be enough. There are companies that specialize in
pool-spa leak detection, using sound detection and other
equipment or techniques. Good luck and I hope that the
information will prove helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 8/7/2013
► Pool Liner
Leak?
I have noticed that I must have a leak
in my liner. How do I find this? Is there something I can
put in the water that goes to the spot? I have an above
ground pool 24' round. I would appreciate any suggestions,
that can help me to repair this pool leak. Thanks.
Lisa J., 5/26/2014
You should try locating the problem, with a leak-locating
dye. Products like concentrated dye solutions, are available
at local pool supply retailers. The dye is put into a still
pool, near places that may be leaking pool water If there is
a leak, the dye will be sucked out at that point. Are you
certain that the liner is the problem? Make sure, by
checking all the lines and connections. If you allow the
pool to leak, when the water reaches the level of the leak,
it will stop. This can help you pinpoint the location. Once
you locate the hole in the liner, repair is simple.
Boxer
Adhesives offers a line of underwater patches and repair
kits that you can use to make a lasting repair. They are
designed to be applied under the water, so draining the pool
will not be necessary. I hope that this information helps to
solve the problem.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/26/2014
► Can't
Find the Pool Leak?
I am losing more than 1/2" daily from
an above ground pool. The pool leak has to be on the floor,
but I can't find it. I have tried diving down and using a
dye. I did have some pinhole from ants, but all have been
patched. Any suggestions.
Bob G., NJ, 7/23/2011
Possibly, there are some pool leaks, that are too small to
be seen or are hidden from plain sight. Adding
Fix A Leak
can help seal these tiny pinholes. After being adding to the
pool, the product should find its way to the pinhole. The
seal can be very long lasting. Care should be taken to avoid
vacuuming for at least two weeks. Otherwise, the pressure
could suck out the material making the seal. Eventually, it
will thoroughly cure and harden. If the pool water loss is
persistent and other methods fail, consider contacting a
swimming pool leak professional. Leak Detection experts, in
your area, will use modern technology to find and fix your
pool leak and can help avoid major damage and costly pool
water loss. I hope that this information proves helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 7/23/2011
► Geothermal
System Leak?
Has anyone used fix a leak in a closed
loop geothermal system that has a leak? Please let me know.
Thanks.
Bob G., 1/10/2010
Yes, Fix A Leak has been used for more than 10 years, in the
geothermal application. It is used a bit differently, but
seems to work wonders, according to some testimonials. For
more information about Geothermal Leaks, click
this link. I hope
that this will prove to be the solution, as it has many
times over.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 1/13/2010
► Hydrostatic
Pressure Relief Valve At Work?
Great website. I have a concrete pool
about 20x40 and 10-12' at deep end. It is plaster lined and
plaster is about 10 years old. I have not had any issues
with leaking. I recently drained the pool to do an acid wash
and noticed a strange occurrence in that the pool fills
itself back up by about 6 inches in 24 hours. This is only
down in the deep end and I have pumped it out twice to have
it fill back up both times. Would you guess this is
groundwater coming in? If so, then should I be worrying
about a leak even if I have not had a previous issue? Thanks
for any thoughts or comforting words.
Michael T., Boston, MA 12/4/2008
Good news. You have a hydrostatic pressure relief valve. It
is meant to prevent a pool from popping up, when drained. In
your case, the ground water level is higher than the
pool floor and the valve is opening to relieve the
pressure. When you're ready to fill, remove as much as
possible and start filling. Once the water level, in the
pool, is higher than the ground water, the valve will close.
Adding a couple of bottles of a quality, phosphate-free,
metal treatment, such as Liquid METALTRAP, as the pool
fills, might help prevent staining problems. I hope that
this puts your mind at ease.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 12/5/2008
► Possible
Leaking Fiberglass Steps Gasket?
I have a pool leak that I think is at
the recessed fiberglass stair set gasket. The water has gone
down to a point on the lower step below all the through wall
fittings. It has been happening for some time but I've never
let it go this far before. There is nothing below this
except the main drain. But the water seems to have
stabilized at this point. I don't see damage to the vinyl
liner and have checked it before. I want to caulk the gasket
and want to know what you would suggest. I don't think I can
remove and replace the gasket because it will pull away from
the stairway seam. I was thinking 3M5200 marine caulk? I'm
not sure if it is safe for use with a vinyl liner? The other
option is the leak fix that you guys advertise. I don't
really want to use a two part epoxy putty. The pool is not
running but I could circulate the water us a submersible
pump. Or you say it can be applied directly to the area of
concern. Any suggestions?
Thanks John B., 5/13/2010
Fix A Leak could work, but you will need to fill the pool
up. Once full, you can apply the product with a
mustard/ketchup type of dispenser and slowly introduce the
product around the gasket. Hopefully, as pool water leaks
out, it will draw in the product. Afterwards, add the
balance to the pool. Set the system on full main drain and
recirculate, with the filter bypassed. Occasionally, stir
the bottom. Give it a few days or until the leaking stops.
Once the leak stops, you can use the filter to remove the
excess leak sealer. A dye solution, dripped into a still
pool can help locate the problem. Silicone caulk is a viable
solution. I would not expect there to be any damage to the
vinyl. I hope that this information will be helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/13/2010
► Rapid Water
Loss?
I just helped a buddy open his pool in
NJ. Removed plugs from return lines, added our chemicals
etc. We started the process 5 days ago and yesterday his
pool DRAINED OUT in a matter of hours! He has no cracks in
the gunite. Maybe his drain is broken, but somebody
mentioned to him that a hydrostatic plug may be to blame.
DID I DO SOMETHING WRONG TO HIS POOL? Don't even know what
one is. Could something get stuck in it and drain it out?
Why would it NOT be solely connected to the line back to the
pump. Why would it be set up to also drain into the earth?
Thank you.
Dave S., Parsippany, NJ, 5/11/2016
This valve is meant to protect the pool from popping up, if
the ground water level gets too much higher than the pool
level. It is not connected to the filter system. If ground
water is too high, water may enter the pool, but water
should not leak out. Possibly, the valve opened
inappropriately. If the water table was low, the pool might drain completely. The valve/drain might need to be
replaced. More likely, there could be a major break in the
main drain line. This is a serious problem. The main drain
can be sealed off, but circulation will suffer and not
having a hydrostatic pressure relief valve could allow the
pool to pop up. As a means of improving circulation, you
could add a robotic pool cleaner, which will act as a moving
main drain. The installation of The
Pool Circulator, in each
return jet, will dramatically boost circulation and help
make up for the loss of a functioning main drain. Otherwise,
repairing the main drain line will require excavation. No,
this was not your fault!
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/12/2016
► Dealing
With An Inflated Pool Air Leak?
I have one of those pools with an
inflatable top ring. Seems to have a leak and I am slowly
losing air. Any suggestions about locating the leak and
fixing it? I appreciate your time and effort.
Aimee, New Jersey 5/22/2009
Look for signs of bubbling, where the ring is covered with
water. That will indicate the location. If you don't see
bubbling, the pool leak is above the water level. Get some
swimming pool algaecide that contains dimethyl ammonium
chloride. Make a solution of one part algaecide and 3 parts
water and stir it up with a 1-2" brush so that it lathers a
bit. They use a technique like this to find a leak in a
tire. You don't want to use soap, because you don't want it
to end up in the pool water. Brush it on the seams and other
areas, until you find the leak. Once found, clean the area
with rubbing alcohol and allow to dry off. With this type of
thin walled pool, you cannot use a traditional vinyl
adhesive and patch, as this can damage the vinyl.
Boxer
Adhesives offers a complete line of vinyl repair products,
including an adhesive patch that is intended to be used with
pools just like yours. If necessary, it can even be used
under water! I hope that this information will prove
helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/22/2009
► Stains And
A
Pool Leak?
We have a 12X24 gunite pool, that was
built about 6 years ago. My first concern is related to the
pool stains, that have appeared. They started as small light
and dark grayish blotches in one corner of the pool. The
local pool dealer recommended a metal stain treatment. It
did nothing the stains seem to be spreading, covering most
of the pool floor.
My second concern is related to the possibility of a pool
water leak. We're losing about an inch of water per day.
This seems like an awful lot of water to evaporate
overnight. We've inspected the tile border for leaks and
used a pool leak locating dye solution, trying to determine
is any leaks might reveal themselves. Nothing appeared to
indicate the location of a leak. How can we determine if
there may be a pool water leak, in the lines, fittings, etc?
What is the average amount of water loss, we should be
experiencing, during the cooler months? Thanks very much for
your help.
Kathy N., Florida, 4/25/2006
I doubt that the two problems are related. Simply adding a
metal treatment doesn't always work. You might have to lower
the pH to approximately 6.8, to help solubilize the stain.
Try this. Put about 1/4 pound of pH reducer powder in a
white sock and drop onto a stained area. If this failed, do
the same with some vitamin C
tablets. Leave in place for
15 minutes and move around with a wooden pole. If this
works, the stain problem is definitely a metal. You can
use a MetalTrap Stain Reversal Kit
to remove stains, throughout the
pool. Whenever new water is added,
you can avoid adding more metals, by
attaching a
MetalTrap Filter, to the garden
hose, used to add the water.
Locating a pool leak isn't always simple task. One inch per
day is very likely to be a leak. Typical daily water loss
depends upon temperature, exposure, wind speed and other
variables. A pool water loss of 1/8-1/4" per day would be
more realistic, given the cooler weather. The leak could be
in the main drain line or the skimmer lines. A leak in the
suction line, could create aeration in the pool, but not
necessarily a pool water loss, when the pump is running. Try
this. If you would like to measure the true extent of the
pool leak do this: place a plastic bucket with water on the
top step of the pool, adjust the water level to that of the
pool and mark the height of the water level, both in the
bucket and in the pool. The next day determine the pool
water loss in the pool and in the bucket. The loss in the
bucket is due to evaporation. If the pool lost more, that
portion is due to a pool leak. Close off the skimmer lines
at the multiport valve and plug up the skimmer intakes. If
you are still losing pool water, the leak is not in the
skimmer lines. If it stops, the leak is in the skimmer line.
There are companies that specialize in pool-spa
leak
detection. However, you first might want to consider using
FIX A LEAK. When used as directed, this product can make
long lasting seals, in leaks in the plumbing system, walls
or fittings, as large as 1/8" in diameter. It is not overly
expensive, could solve the problem and is worth a try. Good
luck and I hope that this information has been helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 4/25/2006
► Possibly A
Small Pool Leak?
We have a 14 x 28 inground kidney
shaped marcite-finished pool. The pool loses about a 0.25
inch of water daily. We bought the house last year and had
the pool refinished. There is a ground drain at the bottom.
The piping runs to my garage, where the pump, filter and
heater are. The heater is very old (20 plus years). The pump
is new and so is the filter. Do you think the cap at the
bottom may be loose and causing a pool leak?
Kelly P., 2/13/2010
Have you tried to dive down and inspect with drain? A water
loss of 0.25" per day is not conclusively a pool leak.
Considering evaporation and splash out loses, that amount
may be close to normal expectations. Such a pool leak would
be quite small. Any leak is somewhere below the level of the
water and given the slowness, might take a considerable time
to reach the level. If you would like to confirm the extent
of the leak do this: place a plastic bucket with water on
the top step of the pool, adjust the water level to that of
the pool and mark the height of the water level, both in the
bucket and in the pool. The next day determine the water
loss in the pool and in the bucket. The loss in the bucket
is due, solely, to evaporation. If the pool lost more, that
portion is due to a pool leak. There are dye solutions that
might help locate the leak.
Fix A Leak is an easy to use
leak sealer, might be able to seal the pool leak. If there
is a leak and you fail in your efforts to seal or locate it,
you should consider calling in a pool-spa leak detection
professional. If the cost of any repair work is prohibitive,
you have the option of plugging the main drain, closing off
the other end and using The
Pool Circulator
(Circulation-Boosting Accessory)
helps provide better
circulation, using only the skimmers. Good luck and I hope
that I have helped provide some useful information.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 1/13/2010
► Leaking
Fountain?
I have a fountain with a large base
and some hairline cracks. I have called everyone I know
including the dumb manufacturer and no one has a clue about
stopping any such leaks. I have a friend in another city who
used your product on a hot tub with great success. So, since
no one around here (St. George, Utah) seems to carry this
product, how do I get a small jug?? Thanks.
H. K., St George, Utah, 8/30/2008
Fix A Leak should work well, in this application. To order
the product, visit the
Website Store. They used it to seal a
leaking 400 year old slate roof in England and saved
$250,000. This one should be simple! After the seal is made,
you should consider painting or sealing. This will help
avoid freeze-thaw cracks. Ultra Poly One Coat is a
hybrid-epoxy coating and might be the perfect paint, for
this application. I hope that this information is helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 8/30/2008
► Winter
Cover Leak?
I noticed that the water was accumulating as winter neared
on top of the winter cover. It froze near the top and then I
noticed weekly it kept getting lower & lower. I am now
trying to remove the water from the cover (this is an
inground pool with a drain at the bottom) but as I take
water from the top, it keeps lowering with inside the pool.
I stopped taking water off (still have Lots more to go) and
the winter cover is about 2 to 2-1/2 feet in the pool. It
appeared when I stopped for the night and checked in the
morning, the water level in the pool was still at the same
level. Does this mean there is a leak in the pool. I closed
with water level about 12 inches from the top, blew out all
jets and sealed them. Do I continue to take all the water
off the cover and check for leaks within the pool? Right now
it looks like about 3 feet form the top of water is gone.
It's a 19X32 kidney shaped inground. Liner is only 2-3 years
old.
EJ, 3/31/2006
It appears to simply be a leak in
the cover. You're pumping the water
off the cover and it is coming from
the pool. I suggest that you get as
much of the debris off with a leave
rack and then remove the cover. Try
and find the hole and use a patch to
make the repair.
Boxer adhesives has the
right product. Good luck with the clean up.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 3/31/2006
► Where To
Buy Fix A Leak Locally?
Hi Alan. Where can I buy the Fix A
Leak product in the St. Louis, Missouri area? Thanks for the
help.
Norm M., St. Louis, MO, 10/25/2009
There is no dealer locator
available.
Because their sales are mostly through distributors,
servicing the pool retailers and service companies, they
might not have a location name available.
Fix A Leak can be
ordered from this website and will ship within 24 hours. Fix
A Leak might be all that you need to seal a leak as large as
1/8" in diameter. I hope the information helps solve the
problem.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 10/25/2009
► Leaking At
Return Fittings?
We have an inground pool in Cape Coral
FL. I replaced the pump recently. I just fixed a new leak on
the solar panel and now find that I am also losing water at
the returns on the pool wall. The dye gets sucked in at both
returns when the pump is off. Most likely cause and fix?
Thanks.
Chet B., Cape Coral, FL, 5/14/2008
Something loose or cracked? If you see the dye getting
sucked in, you might solve the problem with
Fix A Leak. Put
some product into a squeeze bottle (like something used with
condiments) and slowly squeeze product around the return.
Pump off! The Fix A Leak will get sucked in and should make
a seal. Confirm with the dye. If the leaking stopped, leave
off the pump for two days, in order to allow the product to
cure. Clean or backwash filter after running for two days. I
hope that this information is helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/14/2008
► Cracked
Skimmer?
I noticed my pool skimmer has a slight
crack in it and I was losing water all last year. Is there
some type of adhesive I can use to seal this crack or do I
need to replace the whole skimmer?
K. F., 5/19/2005
Boxer Adhesives makes a line of repair kits and patches that
you can use, including a skimmer repair kit. Quite often, a
skimmer has cracked, over the winter, and can be repaired. I
hope that this information will prove to be useful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 5/19/2006
► Pool Water
Level?
Alan, I have a 25,000 gallon gunite
inground pool. I recently bought the house and I am trying
to figure out the water level. I have a skimmer and a main
drain. Lately, when the pool pump turns on the morning it
seems like the pool skimmer is pulling water faster than the
water entering the skimmer can fill the basket. It
eventually regulates it self or if I play around with the
Float Valve assembly. Ironically, on two occasions I have
added water for about 3 minutes and the skimmer flow
regulates itself ( I would not think adding water for 3
minutes would add enough water to correct a low water
level). It seems like the pool may have a low water level. I
am worried I have a pool leak. p.s. The water level going
into the skimmer is about an 1 inch over the entry to the
skimmer. Thanks.
Jay N., 10/6/2009
I don't know if you have a
pool leak. Your water level might
just be borderline and should be raised to the middle of the
skimmers. Place a piece of tape at the water line. If you
are losing more that 1/4-1/2" per day there is a possibility
of a leak. Factors such as exposure, water and air
temperatures, wind speed, humidity, etc. can affect pool
water loss. The ideal water level is to the middle of the
skimmer. When adding water you can add to this point or
slightly higher. When removing excess water, lower the level
to about 1" below the top of the skimmer. Current rainfall
patterns should be considered. The " Float Valve Assembly"
is called a weir and it is supposed to operate with a
flapping action. This helps to remove the floating debris. I
don't think that you really have a problem with the weir. I
hope that I have been helpful.
Sincerely. Alan Schuster, 10/7/2009
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