Pool Leaking in Winter? What Homeowners Need to Know
March 4, 2026 Because pool leak detection is our specialty, the professionals at APL are experienced in locating and repairing pool leaks throughout New Jersey. Our team performs year-round leak detection and repair using modern electronic leak-locating equipment along with visual verification through scuba diving when necessary.
In most cases, your pool does not need to be drained in order for us to locate the source of the leak. This allows us to diagnose the problem quickly while avoiding unnecessary disruption to your pool system. In certain situations, we can even locate and repair leaks on a winterized pool that is losing water, helping prevent serious structural damage before spring arrives.
If you suspect your pool is leaking in winter, it’s important to investigate the issue as soon as possible rather than waiting for the next swimming season.
Pool Water Loss in Winter: What You Should Know
One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is “How much water should a covered pool lose in winter?”
The answer is simple: none.
Once a pool has been properly winterized and covered, the water level should remain stable. Rain or snow may cause the water level to increase slightly over the winter, but the level should never decrease.
Many homeowners also ask, does pool water evaporate under a winter cover? In most cases, evaporation under a properly installed winter cover is minimal to nonexistent. If your pool water level is dropping during the winter months, it is usually a sign that the pool is leaking in winter and needs professional inspection.
Continuously adding water throughout the winter is not only expensive and wasteful, but it can also create serious structural issues.
Why Maintaining Winter Water Levels Is Critical
Vinyl Liner Pools
For pools with vinyl liners, maintaining the correct water level throughout the winter is absolutely essential. The water inside the pool helps hold the liner securely in place against the walls and floor.
If the water level drops too low due to a pool leaking in winter, the liner may begin to shrink, shift, or pull away from the pool structure. This can cause permanent damage including wrinkles, stretching, and stress points around corners, seams, and plumbing openings.
Never allow a vinyl liner pool to drain empty.
If a liner pool loses too much water, the liner can collapse or shrink beyond repair, which often means the entire liner must be replaced.
Concrete (Gunite) Pools
Maintaining the proper water level is equally important for concrete (gunite) pools. If a winter leak causes the water level to drop significantly, the surrounding soil pressure and groundwater can place stress on the pool structure.
This can lead to structural cracking or shifting, and in extreme cases the pool can actually lift out of the ground; a condition commonly known as a pool “pop.”
A popped concrete pool can be extremely costly to repair and may also damage the surrounding patio, decking, and plumbing lines if those components shift with the pool.
Why Pools Leak in Winter
When homeowners discover a pool leaking in winter, they often assume the plumbing system is responsible. However, most plumbing lines are typically plugged during winterization, which prevents them from leaking.
Because of this, winter pool leaks usually originate from:
- The pool structure
- Lights or light niches
- Main drains
- Floor return fittings
Identifying the exact source of the leak requires professional equipment and experience, which is where APL can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wait until spring to fix my winter pool leak?
No. Waiting until spring is not recommended. Low water levels can damage the pool structure, cause the pool cover to collapse into the pool, and in extreme cases may cause the pool walls to collapse in vinyl liner pools.
Addressing the issue early helps prevent more serious and expensive repairs.
How much water should a covered pool lose in winter?
A properly winterized pool should lose no water at all. Rain and snow may cause the water level to rise slightly, but the level should never drop.
If your pool water level is decreasing during winter, you likely have a leak.
Does pool water evaporate under a winter cover?
Very little. While minor evaporation can occur in certain conditions, a properly installed winter cover greatly reduces evaporation. If you notice the water level dropping significantly, evaporation is unlikely to be the cause.
Why is my pool leaking in winter?
Most winter pool leaks come from structural areas such as the pool shell, lights, drains, or return fittings. Because plumbing lines are usually plugged during winterization, they are less likely to be the source of the problem.
Contact Atlantic Leak Detection
If you suspect your pool is leaking in winter, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Identifying the leak early can prevent costly damage to your pool structure, liner, and plumbing system.
Contact APL today to schedule professional pool leak detection services and protect your pool throughout the winter season.
Call 732-592-6718 or reach out through our contact page to get started.
Categorised in: FAQ Blog