I have noticed that my article regarding our pool leak has been drawing a lot of hits this spring. That makes me sort of gloomy, since it likely means that pools are sprouting leaks all across the Midwest! Have a seat on your clicking water meter and check out the message from a reader below:
I found your blog while Googling a fix for a leaking swimming pool. Our pool starting losing water after the ice thawed this spring and settled at a level pretty much identical to what yours did. We also have the same style light as you do. The pool company put a rubber plug where you turn a wingnut and the plug expands and plugs the hole. After filling it to above that level we are still losing water. Is the epoxy you used working since you brought the water up to the normal level for the pool? What type/brand epoxy, any other tips you could give me?
Thanks, Craig
Hi Craig. Although I posted the story in April 2009, the repair took place in spring 2008, and yes, the $5.00 putty is still holding. However, that doesn't constitute a recommendation since, as I noted in my previous post, every other internet article cautions against repairing your own pool leaks (a conspiracy by pool repairmen?).
I used regular plumbers putty purchased at Lowes. I broke off about half the stick and kneeded the two different colored putties together. Once mixed, you have 5-10 minutes to shape it to the form you want. Then it turns, and stays, hard as a rock.
That said, your pool light may not be the culprit. My food coloring test confirmed that my light was leaking. You may want to try that step before using the putty. Again, according to pool experts everywhere, you should not attempt to repair your own pool leak!
Results of my foolish experiment can be seen below. : )
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