First, we need to determine the source of the leak. There are several potential sources including the main drain, the skimmer(overflow), the circulation outlet, the vacuum port, the filtration unit, the light fittings, the feed pipes or the actual structure of the pool.

It is unlikely you will be able to identify the source of the leak yourself, unless it is very evident like a puddle of water under the feed pipes. In most cases you will need a specialist pool leak detection company to conduct the inspection and make a recommendation.

Everything from wind direction to water and air temperature play a part in the levels of evaporation and condensation. For example, an uncovered pool running hot when its cold outside will clearly have more evaporation than in warmer months. A covered pool will have a lot less evaporation due to less heat escape. In any case, it is highly unlikely you will see the water level drop significantly as a result of evaporation or condensation.

When the water level is more than one foot above the source of the leak, the water pressure will be greater. As it nears the source of the leak the pressure is less hence the reduction in rate of water loss. This is a clear sign you have a leak and you should consult a specialist pool leak detection company.

This is quite common. The light housing has a rubber seal which can perish over time. Often it simply needs a clean or at worst a replacement seal installed.

Turn off for the auto top up and monitor where the water level stops. This should give you an indication of the source of the leak. If the water drops below the light, then there may be a leak in the drain at the bottom the pool. If the pool is losing more water while the pump is running, the leak is probably on the return or skimmer line side of the system.

This usually is the first sign of damage to the pipework. Often the multi-port valve is faulty, and water is simply running to waste. You need to call an engineer to replace the multi-port valve.

There are several non-destructive solutions we can employ to find a leak before we must resort to emptying the pool or excavate the area. These techniques are both fast and accurate, saving owners valuable time and money.

One method is tracer gas. Used where leaks are difficult to locate, e.g. in long sections of pipeline, specialist gas is pressurised through the pipes and then detected above the ground as it escapes.

Using the principle of body-sound (noise), acoustic leak detection is used to accurately detect leaks through pipe mapping, pre-location and ground sound profiling, testing to a depth of three metres through most surfaces including concrete.

Only as a last resort if we are unable to trace the leak through our non-destructive methods. And even then, we may suggest employing a specialist leak detection engineer with dive gear to inspect the pool.

There are lots of reasons to choose Polygon. First of all, we were the pioneers in leak detection and have over 20 years' experience. Secondly, we are truly the only nationwide provider in the UK. As a global leader in property damage control, we have an unrivalled combination of people, skills and technology to deliver you the right solution at the right time and at the right cost. We are Always By Your Side.