Did you know that your pool water can drop a quarter of an inch overnight? The drop in the water level can happen nightly, especially when the humidity level in the air is low. This naturally causes the water to evaporate.

Aside from environmental factors, however, a drop in the water level could also be attributed to leakage. This occurs when the pool has cracks along its walls or the floor. There are two types of leak-inducing cracks: superficial and structural. Each one has its own characteristics, but they’ll need to be addressed all the same.

But first: why is it so important to fix them quickly though? A continuous drop in the water level can affect the pressure in the pool skimmer, leaving its motor at risk for overheating. When this happens, you’ll face an unexpected expense on top of having to constantly refill your pool to keep the right water level.

Our experts at Clark County Pool & Lawn have years of experience when it comes to pool maintenance, and we are known for our top-notch residential pool service in the Las Vegas area. Here’s some practical advice we can offer you:

If the cause of the drop in the water level is due to low humidity, there are several ways to slow down the evaporation process:

  • Cover the pool

Installing a solar cover over your pool helps slow down the water evaporation process by up to 95%. It can also prevent natural debris and wildlife from finding their way into your pool when it’s not in use, so it will help keep your pool water cleaner for longer.

  • Use a Liquid Blanket

Another way to protect your pool water is by using a chemical formula that forms a thin layer of film on the water surface. The formula protects your water’s surface at a molecular level, creating a heat barrier that prevents water from evaporating quickly.

  • Lower Water Temperature

When the temperature rises, decreasing the pool water temperature will help counteract undue evaporation. By adjusting your pool’s thermostat — not necessarily down to freezing levels — you can help retain the bond that holds the water molecules together and delay the evaporation process.

If the water level continues to drop despite the preventive options given above, it’s best to have the pool inspected for cracks.

  • Surface cracks very rarely cause leaks but, when left untreated, they can worsen and become problematic. These cracks can also affect the aesthetics of your pool, as the crevices can darken over time due to the development of mineral deposits.
  • Structural cracks can definitely cause water leakage and should be repaired immediately. If the pool water leaks through the crack and seeps into the surrounding ground, it will eventually damage the soil layer and the pool’s outer walls, eroding the soil underneath. Over time, hollow pockets will develop beneath the eroded soil flooring and result in ground shifting that can potentially affect the integrity of the entire pool structure.

To prevent this from happening, a regular pool inspection is a must. Moreover, pool water should be drained every two or three years, so this will be the best time to have your pool inspected for cracks. Fixing structural cracks sooner than later will help you cut down on water refilling costs and expensive repairs in the future.

We’re Here to Help

Conducting a thorough pool inspection is essential in the early detection and prevention of surface cracks that can worsen and develop into structural cracks. It’s also important to ensure that your pool water is chemically balanced and protected from the heat, to slow down the process of evaporation.

Call us at 702.362.8295 or fill out our secure form to schedule an inspection today.