If you’re a pool owner in Austin, Texas, you already know how important it is to keep your pool in good condition—especially with our scorching summers. But what happens when you notice your pool water level dropping faster than usual? Is it just the heat, or something more serious?
At MC Targa Pools, a leading Austin pool company, we specialize in leak detection and pool repair. Here’s a breakdown of the most common reasons your pool might be losing water in Austin—and what you can do about it.
1. Evaporation: A Major Factor in Central Texas
Austin’s climate is known for high heat, low humidity, and long, sunny days. All of this contributes to natural evaporation, which is the most common (and harmless) cause of water loss.
What to expect with evaporation:
- Normal loss: 1/8 to 1/4 inch per day
- More if: It’s windy, sunny, or the pool is heated
- Less if: You use a pool cover regularly
How to confirm it’s just evaporation:
Try the bucket test:
- Fill a bucket with pool water and place it on a pool step.
- Mark the water level inside and outside the bucket.
- Wait 24 hours.
- If the pool water drops significantly more than the bucket water, you might have a leak.
2. Hidden Leaks in the Pool System
If your pool is losing more than 1/4 inch per day, you may have a leak. This is where things get tricky—because many pool leaks are hidden underground or behind the walls.
Common leak sources include:
- Underground plumbing lines (suction and return lines)
- Cracks in pool plaster, tile, or concrete
- Leaky equipment like filters, pumps, and valves
- Around fittings such as lights, skimmers, and drains
Leaks can be small, but over time, they lead to:
- Higher water bills
- Damage to surrounding decking or landscaping
- Possible structural damage to the pool
As a trusted Austin pool company, MC Targa Pools uses advanced equipment to detect even the smallest leaks—often without having to drain your pool.
3. Splash-Out and Backwashing
Another source of water loss is splash-out, especially if your pool is a hub of activity. Pool parties, diving, and playing can displace a surprising amount of water.
Also consider:
- Backwashing your filter: This cleaning process can use up to 200-300 gallons of water each time.
- Overflow systems: If your pool’s water level rises too high (due to rain or auto-fill systems), the overflow drain can kick in, removing water.
These aren’t leaks, but they can still account for unexpected water loss.
4. Structural Movement or Settling
Austin’s soil contains expansive clay, which shifts dramatically with changes in moisture levels. This natural movement can cause:
- Cracks in your pool’s shell
- Shifting of pipes underground
- Loosening of pool fittings
Over time, this can result in hard-to-detect leaks. If your home has had foundation issues, it’s worth checking your pool as well.
What Should You Do If Your Pool Is Losing Water?
Water loss in a pool might seem minor at first, but over time it can waste thousands of gallons, drive up your utility bills, and cause expensive damage. If you’re experiencing more water loss than normal, it’s time to call in the experts.
Why Choose MC Targa Pools?
At MC Targa Pools, we specialize in pool leak detection and repair services in Austin, Texas. Here’s what sets us apart:
✅ Advanced leak detection – We use pressure testing, dye testing, and electronic listening devices
✅ Non-invasive methods – In most cases, we don’t have to dig up your yard
✅ Affordable and transparent pricing – No surprises
✅ Locally owned and operated – We understand the unique challenges of Austin’s climate and soil
We’ve helped hundreds of Austin Texas pool owners get their pools back to normal—quickly, professionally, and affordably.
Don’t Let Your Pool Drain Your Wallet
If you’re noticing your pool losing water in Austin, don’t wait. Whether it’s evaporation, a hidden leak, or something more serious, MC Targa Pools is ready to help.
📞 Call us today or visit poolleakaustin.com to book your leak inspection.
