The Bucket Test

How to Detect a Pool Leak at Home

If you've noticed that your pool seems to be losing more water than usual, or you've noticed soggy spots around the area, visible cracks, or you find yourself frequently filling up your pool more than once a week, you might have a leak. The bucket test is a simple way that you can check for pool leaks at home without the help of a professional. The bucket test not only helps you verify the presence of a leak, it can also help you determine how large the leak is and help you rule out other possible factors for water loss such as evaporation or splashing.

How to Conduct the Bucket Test

  1. First, make sure your pool is filled to its normal level.
  2. Next, fill a large bucket 1 inch from the top
  3. Turn off any auto-fill valves or devices before continuing.
  4. Set the bucket on the first or second pool step until it is immersed about 13 centimeters.
  5. Ideally, you want the water level in the bucket and the pool to line up.
  6. Mark the water level both inside and outside of the bucket.
  7. After 24 hours, compare the water level of the bucket with the water level of the pool.
  8. If the water level outside the bucket is significantly lower than the level inside, you likely have a leak.

To ensure accurate results, it's important to check the bucket after exactly 24 hours. You will also want to conduct this test on a clear day, as rain will produce inaccurate results. After completing the bucket test, plug your results into our pool water loss calculator to determine exactly how much water you are losing due to the leak.

5 Star Reviews From Past Customers!

Find Out Why American Leak Detection Has Been Trusted by Thousands of People

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "So rare these days to find this kind of service. We feel so fortunate to have had them recommended to us by another plumber who felt like the job was too much for him."

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "Quick response; knowledgeable, professional employees."

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "Saved us time and money!"

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "We were extremely satisfied with the service, friendliness, and cleanliness of ALD!"

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "I would recommend Canadian Leak Detection to anyone!"

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "They showed up on time and gave good advice with a fair price."

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "They repaired my leaks and cleaned up afterward!"

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "They came in, investigated with smoke, and fixed the problem. For the first time in two months, my house doesn't smell like a restaurant toilet."

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "I would highly recommend."

  • Canadian Leak DetectionCanadian Leak Detection

    "I can't say enough good things about their service!"

View All Testimonials

Call The Original Leak Detection Specialists™

If the bucket test shows that your pool does have a leak, our team of highly-trained service professionals can help you pinpoint its location. We rely on advanced, state-of-the-art tools and cutting-edge technology to provide all of our customers with top-quality, non-invasive pool leak detection throughout the country.

There Are Many Great Reasons to Choose Us!

  • Non-Invasive Approach

    We want to save you money and stress! We detect leaks without destruction because we know how expensive repairs can be if a specialist destroys property while trying to locate a leak.
  • Transparent Pricing

    Before we even start any work, we will provide you with an accurate and upfront quote. Your personalized quote is based on your situation and property, and our expert recommendations.
  • Industry Expertise

    There's a reason why people call us THE original leak detection specialists. We have more than 40 years of industry experience and you can benefit directly from our team of uniformed professionals.
  • Peace of Mind

    You really cannot find a more qualified team anywhere else! We take pride in our workmanship and our specialists are fully trained and qualified to handle even the toughest leaks.