How To Fix a Leaking Swimming Pool Light
In the heart of summer, there’s nothing more frustrating than a swimming pool light leaking that disrupts your cool, refreshing dips. As common as they are, these issues can often be tricky to resolve, leading to unnecessary downtime of your pool. But fear not! We’re here to help you navigate this murky situation of leak detection!
Leaks from the conduit, the line that runs from the bulb to the junction box, are a common problem with inground pool lights. The pipe’s connection to the light niche is not sealed, which makes it susceptible to water intrusion.
This comprehensive guide will show you how to identify and fix a leaking swimming pool light, ensuring you can return to your aquatic oasis swiftly and safely.
How do I determine a leaking pool light?
If you keep the pool running on the main drain only (skimmers closed or plugged), you can detect a pool light leak by watching the water level fall.
You might have a conduit leak if the water level appears to stabilise at the light’s level, or more accurately, a few inches below the top of the light. You can use expansion plugs to block the skimmers, returns, main drain pipes, and any other pool plumbing lines after adding a few inches of water and turning off the pump.
If an inground gunite pool still leaks after all the lines have been tightly blocked and the pump has been turned off, either the pool wall shell or the pool light is leaking. Pools with vinyl liners must rule out leaks in the liner or any areas where the liner was intentionally cut, such as the pool light, skimmer, steps, return, and drain.
A more advanced way to detect a pool leak or pool light leak is to use leak testing dye. A professional pool surveying company can use this technology as it can show if the dye gets sucked out of the conduit.
A pool light conduit leak could be the cause if the water level keeps falling below the light’s midway point. There is, nevertheless, another leak in another location. A conduit leak will only reach the port where the conduit attaches, which is located on the upper rear of the light niche.
Is the pool light niche leaking?
Rarely do pool light niches leak. It is very uncommon for a pool light to be seeping around or through the light niche’s shell. Water seeping out of the light conduit accounts for the majority of pool light leaks. The light niche gasket in vinyl pools, on the other hand, is sealed to the pool wall, increasing the possibility of leaks near the niche.
Found water inside the pool light?
Water inside the pool light lens, which is typically visible from the on-deck area, indicates a failing lamp gasket that is allowing water to seep inside and encircle the lightbulb rather than a leak in the light itself. While you should take action to address this potentially dangerous scenario, the pool leak is not coming from there.
Advanced leak detection
Simple troubleshooting techniques not working for you? Using sophisticated pool leak detecting techniques might be required. A professional will be able to use cutting-edge techniques and equipment to swiftly and precisely identify the leak or leaks in your pool. They can also offer you advice on what to do next or how to get repairs done.
Pressure testing the pipes might assist locate an underground leak if you suspect one. To find out whether parts of the subterranean plumbing system are leaking, individual pipes are pressurised with air or water. Leak detection experts can locate leaks and literally draw a “X” on the ground with the use of air and listening gear.
A unique electronic leak finder that finds stray voltage escaping the pool shell is another tool they have at their disposal. This is quite useful for locating leaks in pools with vinyl pool liners. The majority of users of this technology are leak detection specialists due to its relatively high acquisition cost.
Leak detection or swimming pool surveys are also recommended if you’re buying a new house with a pool.
Pool light repair
Below we have some general guidance on how to temporarily fix leaking pool lights, however it is important to note that for an effective solution one should always consult a professional swimming pool survey company who can offer leak detection and maintenance services.
To fix leaky pool lights, you can pack pool putty around the cable where it leaves the niche or inject sealant into the conduit.
Replacement parts may be available online if the leak is the result of a damaged gasket, poor o-rings, or fractured components. Among the most frequent pool parts required for a leak repair are skimmer gaskets and filter valve components.
Looking for expert leak detection services?
It’s natural for a swimming pool to lose a small amount of water, but if you’ve noticed a substantial amount or you have reason to believe there may be a leak, it’s best to get the professionals involved.
Fortunately, Swimming Pool Surveys has years of knowledge and specialised equipment. We can assist you in finding the leak in your hot tub or swimming pool and promptly repair it or provide guidance.
Specialist listening equipment and dyes used in Swimming Pool Surveys’ leak detection process ensure that even the smallest water loss is measured, leaks are located precisely, and continuing pool repairs and maintenance are arranged.
Get in touch for professional advice today!
How to fix leak in swimming pool light FAQs
What happens if water gets into a pool light?
Combining electricity and water can be hazardous. Water entering the pool light fixture might result in electrical shocks or short circuits when it comes into touch with live wires. This puts everyone in or near the pool at serious risk.
Can you lose water through a pool light?
The widespread occurrence of fractures around the connecting ports in pool lights may be the cause of the water level drop. Whilst you may consider fixing or replacing this yourself, you should consult a professional leak detection company who can use the right tools and safety equipment.
Do I really need a pool light?
Both the interior and exterior of your pool should be well-lit. After all, if you and your guests can’t see, you won’t be able to enjoy the area or navigate it safely at night. The safety of swimming at night is further increased with pool lights.