Backyard pools are common across Citrus Heights, and in hot Sacramento summers some water loss is just evaporation. We separate normal evaporation from a real leak in the shell, plumbing, skimmer or equipment.
Signs you may need pool and spa leak detection
- Water level drops more than normal evaporation
- Pump runs dry or loses prime
- Wet soil or soggy ground around the pool equipment
- Cracks or gaps near fittings, lights or skimmers
Pool leaks hide in a few usual places. A skimmer leak shows up where the skimmer meets the wall. A suction line leak or a return line leak sits in the buried pipes that carry water to and from the pump. A pool equipment leak shows at the pool pump, filter, or heater connections. A structural pool crack in the shell or around a light fitting leaks steady even with the pump off. Pool leak repair starts with the location, not the patch. A patch on the wrong spot leaks again.
How we find the leak
We perform a bucket-style loss test, pressure-test the return and suction lines separately, and inspect fittings and the shell to identify which part of the system is losing water.
See the full overview in how leak detection works.
What affects the cost
Cost depends on pool size, number of plumbing lines to test, and whether equipment access is limited.
Where we provide it
We provide pool and spa leak detection throughout Citrus Heights, including these neighborhoods:
- Birdcage Heights
- Sylvan Old Auburn Road
- Sunrise Ranch
- Stock Ranch
- Northwest Citrus Heights
- Cirby Ranch
- Chase
- Arcade Creek
- Park Oaks
- Sunrise Oaks
The 24-hour bucket test: evaporation or leak?
Before we come out, run this test yourself:
- Fill a bucket with pool water and set it on a pool step, weighted so it stays put.
- Mark the water level inside the bucket and the pool level on the outside.
- Wait 24 hours with the pump running as normal.
- Compare. If both dropped the same amount, that is evaporation. If the pool dropped more than the bucket, you likely have a leak.
Full step-by-step in our pool bucket test guide.
Evaporation vs leak: what to look at
| Sign | Points to evaporation | Points to a leak |
|---|---|---|
| Water loss | Matches the bucket test | Pool loses more than the bucket |
| Weather | Hot, windy, sunny days lose more | Loss continues in calm, cool weather |
| Ground | Dry equipment pad and deck | Soggy spots, sinking pavers near plumbing runs |
| Equipment | Normal pump operation | Air in the pump basket, losing prime |
Frequently asked questions
How much water loss from a pool is normal?
Evaporation varies with heat, wind and sun. A loss test compares the pool to a control bucket so the difference points to a leak or not.
Do you repair pool leaks?
Tell us what you need when you call. We locate the leak and give you a clear report you can use with your pool or plumbing contractor.
How much water should a pool lose in 24 hours?
Run the bucket test: mark both the bucket and pool levels and wait 24 hours. Whatever the bucket loses is evaporation. If the pool loses more, suspect a leak.
Why is my pool losing water but there's no visible leak?
Most pool leaks hide in the plumbing, the skimmer throat, or behind the light niche. Places you can't see from the deck. Electronic detection and pressure tests find them without draining the pool.
Where is the most common place for a pool leak?
Skimmer throats and plumbing joints lead the list, followed by light niches and return fittings. Underground pipe leaks show up as soggy ground along the plumbing runs.
Is it normal to add water to the pool every week?
In Citrus Heights summer heat, some top-offs are normal. If you're adding water weekly through the cooler months too, that's a leak sign. Do the bucket test.
Can you fix a pool leak without draining it?
Detection usually needs the pool full. Many skimmer and fitting leaks are repaired underwater or at the equipment pad. We locate the leak first, then explain the repair options.
Why is my pool leaking even with the pump on?
Leaks happen with the pump on or off. If the pump loses prime or the basket fills with air, the leak may be on the suction side of the plumbing.
Think you have a leak?
Call AquaTrace Leak Detection to describe what you are seeing in Citrus Heights and get a plan to find it.
Call (123) 456-7890Related services
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- Sewer and Drain Line Leak Detection
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- Irrigation and Sprinkler Leak Detection
- Commercial Leak Detection
- High Water Bill Leak Investigation
Last updated: October 25, 2026.