Pool Leak Detection: When to Call for Help (and What It’s Going to Cost You)

Pool Leak Detection:

When to Call for Help (and What It’s Going to Cost You)

Every pool loses a little water naturally. Evaporation, splash-out, and backwashing can add up, especially during hot summer months. In the Myrtle Beach area, it’s normal to see your pool drop about ¼–½ inch per day at the peak of summer. But if you find yourself topping off the pool every couple of days, or losing several inches in a week, you might have more than evaporation—you might have a leak.

Signs You Might Have a Leak

• Frequent Refills – Needing to add water multiple times a week just to keep things running normally.

• Air in the System – Bubbles or gurgling noises at the skimmer or return lines.

• Excessive Water Loss – More than 2 inches per week outside of summer heat is a red flag.

• Wet Spots Around the Pool – Constantly soggy ground or sinkholes near plumbing lines.

• Higher Utility Bills – A hidden leak can quietly drive up your water and electricity costs.

What to Expect During Leak Detection

A professional leak detection isn’t just guessing—it’s a step-by-step process to track down the exact source of water loss. This may include:

1. Bucket Test – To confirm whether water loss is from evaporation or a true leak.

2. Visual Inspection – Checking for cracks in tile grout, skimmer throats, or fittings.

3. Dye Testing – To spot water escaping through small cracks or gaps inside the pool.

4. Pressure Testing – Used on plumbing lines to confirm underground leaks.

The goal is to identify the exact problem so repairs can be done efficiently, without digging up your entire yard or replacing parts unnecessarily.

How Much Does It Cost?

Leak detection pricing can vary quite a bit depending on the company, the size of your pool, and how complex the leak is. In the Myrtle Beach area, most pool owners can expect to pay anywhere from $450 to $1,200 for professional leak detection.

It’s important to note that these fees usually only cover finding the leak and providing a temporary patch (such as epoxy). Permanent repairs—like re-grouting tiles, replacing a skimmer throat, or fixing underground plumbing—are quoted separately. For example, if a crack is found in the skimmer, epoxy may work as a short-term fix, but the long-term solution could require re-grouting or even replacing the skimmer itself.

Also keep in mind that pressure testing of plumbing lines may or may not be included in the initial price, so it’s always worth asking upfront exactly what the service covers.

While the upfront cost can feel steep, catching and confirming a leak early prevents ongoing water loss, wasted chemicals, and extra strain on your pool system, which can cost much more in the long run.

Final Thoughts

Every pool owner should keep an eye on water levels and know the signs of a possible leak. If you notice your pool losing water faster than normal evaporation, it’s time to take a closer look. A professional leak detection can give you peace of mind and help you avoid bigger, more expensive repairs down the road.

—By Joey Phillips, Owner of Coastal Pools Restoration—

Coastal Pool Restoration specializes in pool resurfacing and Leak Detection throughout the Grand Strand. Our goal is to restore and extend the life of your pool with quality workmanship and attention to detail. Whether it’s refinishing worn plaster or patching a leak, we’re dedicated to helping you get the most out of your investment — and love your pool again.