Understanding Normal Water Loss in Your Pool

As a pool owner, you may have noticed your water level tends to decrease over time. While it may initially raise concerns about potential leaks, there’s no need to worry, as water loss in your pool is normal. Numerous factors, such as weather and pool-related variables, contribute to this phenomenon. Read on as we delve into the reasons behind water loss and help you distinguish between normal evaporation and when to worry about a genuine leak.

Weather and Evaporation

One of the primary factors contributing to water loss in your pool is evaporation, a natural process when water turns into vapor due to heat. The evaporation rate is heavily influenced by everyday weather conditions, especially temperature, humidity, and wind speed.

Temperature: Higher temperatures accelerate the evaporation process. During scorching summer days, it’s common to witness increased water loss from your pool.

Humidity: When the air is humid, meaning it already contains a significant amount of moisture, evaporation slows down. Conversely, in dry conditions, evaporation rates can soar.

Wind Speed: Wind plays a vital role in the rate of water evaporation. A brisk wind over the pool surface can carry away water molecules, hastening the process.

Pool-Related Variables

Apart from the weather, various pool-related variables can also impact water loss. Understanding these factors can help you assess if the water level reduction in your pool is within normal limits.

Splash-Out and Swimmers: High activity in the pool, such as splashing or heavy usage, results in water being displaced out of the pool. While this loss may be noticeable, it’s usually a temporary effect.

Backwashing and Cleaning: Regular pool maintenance, including backwashing the filtration system and cleaning, will lead to some water loss. But don’t change your cleaning routine because it is essential for keeping the pool water clean and safe.

Pool Leaks: Although most water loss is due to evaporation and other natural causes, genuine leaks can occur. To distinguish between normal evaporation and leakage, you can perform a simple “bucket test.” Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on the pool steps, ensuring the water level inside the bucket matches the pool water level. Mark the water levels on both the inside and outside of the bucket. After 24 hours, compare the two water levels. If the pool water has decreased more than the water inside the bucket, you might have a leak that requires professional attention.

Use this water evaporation estimator tool to help determine the estimated evaporation rate you can expect on a particular day. 

Preventive Measures to Consider

While some water loss is inevitable and natural, you can take certain preventive measures to reduce evaporation and overall water loss. Do you have or have you thought about investing in a pool cover? Pool covers significantly decrease water evaporation while helping retain heat, reduce chemical usage, and keep debris out of the pool.

You may also want to think about the landscaping around your pool. Strategically planting trees and shrubs around the pool can act as windbreaks, reducing the wind’s impact on evaporation. Finally, consider the timing of pool use. Schedule pool activities during cooler parts of the day to minimize water loss due to evaporation.

Your Pool Building Experts in Austin, San Antonio & Marble Falls

Experiencing water loss in your pool is entirely normal and is mainly influenced by weather conditions and various pool-related factors. Understanding the natural phenomenon of evaporation can put your mind at ease and help you distinguish between what’s normal and what could be a big problem. By taking preventive measures, you can mitigate water loss and enjoy a well-maintained pool throughout the year. Regular pool maintenance and vigilance will ensure your pool remains a refreshing oasis for many years of enjoyment. If you’re ready to jump into pool ownership, call the Austin pool building experts at Texas Pools & Patios today to schedule your design consultation.

 ABOUT THE COMPANY

Texas Pools & Patios is an award-winning Austin and San Antonio pool builder serving Austin, San Antonio, and Central Texas, including Round Rock, Lakeway, Cedar Park, Georgetown, New Braunfels, and Pflugerville.  We specialize in custom designed in ground pools, pool renovation, outdoor living construction, pool repair, maintenance and service.

As a family-owned and operated business, we pride ourselves on our quality construction, cutting-edge designs, industry certifications and awards, and building lasting customer relationships.

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