Swimming Pool Leak Detection in Oxford

Symptoms

The auto fill running constantly pointed to an active leak somewhere within the pool structure or its associated pipework. The source had not yet been pinpointed, and this visit was carried out to conduct a thorough swimming pool leak detection investigation across all fittings, pipe connections, and structural penetrations.

Methods Used

All pool pipe connections were plugged and pressure tested at one bar for 15 minutes each from the filtration room. The circuits tested included the VAC pipe, main drain, skimmer, auto fill, and multiple return pipe segments including the run from the heat stat to the pool, from the infrared filter to the heat stat, and from the heat stat outlet to the disused fountain area.

Each circuit held pressure with no measurable loss, allowing all pipework to be eliminated and focus to remain on the light fittings.

Investigation Process

1. 1
   Auto Fill Identified as Running Continuously

   On a previous visit, the auto fill was found to be operating continuously at 2 litres per minute, confirming the pool was losing water at a measurable rate.

2. 2
   Acoustic Listening Across Pool Structure

   The hydrophone was used to listen to the pool shell and all pipe penetrations. The light fitting closest to the steps was identified as producing significant noise, making it the primary suspect.

3. 3
   Dye Testing of Light Fittings

   Leak locating dye was applied around the suspect light fitting near the steps and was observed to be drawn into the surrounding wall, confirming an active leak at that location. All other light fittings were also dye-tested and none showed any ingress.

4. 4
   Pipework Pressure Testing

   All pool pipe connections were plugged and individually pressure tested at one bar for 15 minutes from the filtration room. The VAC pipe, main drain, skimmer, auto fill, and all return pipe segments passed with no measurable pressure loss, eliminating all pipework as a source.

5. 5
   Customer Informed and Consent Given

   The customer was advised that all pipework was sound and that the only confirmed leak evidence was at the light fitting near the steps. Consent was given to apply two-part epoxy putty seals to that fitting and to all other light fittings given the poor condition of the existing silicon seals.

6. 6
   Epoxy Putty Applied to All Light Fittings

   The loose silicon seals were removed from all light fittings and replaced with a two-part epoxy putty seal. Once cured, dye was re-applied around the previously leaking fitting and no dye movement was observed, confirming the seal was effective.

7. 7
   Pool Returned to Service

   The filtration equipment was reassembled and the pool was left running with the auto fill operating to top up the water level following the investigation.

8. 8
   Return Outlet Face Plate Issue Noted

   The stainless steel decorative face plate on the return outlet closest to the steps would not adhere to the white plastic fascia while the pump was running. It was recommended this be siliconed into place as a separate follow-up action.

Result & Outcome

One outstanding item remains: the stainless steel decorative face plate on the return jet outlet nearest the steps requires siliconing onto the white plastic fascia. This cannot be completed while the pump is running and will need to be carried out as a follow-up. The auto fill will continue to run while the pool level recovers following the investigation.