F. A. Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)

A. One of the most frequently asked questions is "What is normal water loss for my pool?"

The most common cause of water loss is through evaporation. This is determined by many factors. This means your pool may or may not lose the same amount of water as your neighbor. Consider the following:

length of circulation - how long you run your pool system

air temperature and humidity

wind speed and direction

surface area of your pool

sunshine

water temperature - do you heat your pool?

aeration of water through water features - waterfalls, fountains, etc.

As a guideline, average levels of evaporation are:

Winter: ½ - 1" per week

Summer: 1 - 2½" per week

Another form of water loss, overlooked by many is through pool usage.

Splashing

Waves out the overflow

Getting in and out of the pool

B. What are other forms of water loss that should be addressed?

Other forms of water loss include:

Cosmetic losses within the lining i.e. cracks, voids and separations around fittings

Leaks at the equipment

Leaks in the underground plumbing

C. How can I determine if I have more than normal water loss?

Testing for more than normal water loss can be accomplished by:

Close your pool to use

Do static testing (on / off test):

Fill your pool to its normal operating level (this is generally about the middle of the skimmer)

Let your pool system run for 12 or 24 hours

Measure the drop in water level

Fill your pool back up to its normal operating level

Let your pool sit (do not run equipment)

Measure the drop in water level

To measure for evaporation, do the following:

Place a plastic bucket on the top step of your pool

Fill bucket so that the water level on the inside is the same as the water level of the pool

While performing the static test (above), measure the amount of water loss from the bucket (Note: Be sure to fill the bucket back to its starting level after the first sequence.)