How to Check for Air Leaks in Pool Plumbing (Fast & Easy Guide)

Is Your Pool Sucking Air? Here’s Why It Matters

If you’ve noticed bubbles in your pool’s return jets, a gurgling pump, or fluctuating pressure on your filter gauge, you might be dealing with air leaks in your pool plumbing. Left unchecked, these leaks can cause your pump to lose prime, work harder, and even burn out—costing you hundreds in repairs. In this guide, you’ll learn how to check for air leaks in pool plumbing safely, accurately, and without hiring a pro.

What Causes Air Leaks in Pool Plumbing?

Air leaks almost always occur on the suction side of your pool system—the section that pulls water from the pool into the pump. Common culprits include:

• Loose or cracked pump lid
• Worn O-rings or gaskets
• Cracked or loose pipe fittings
• Faulty valve seals
• Low water level in the skimmer

According to the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP), over 60% of pump failures are linked to air ingestion caused by undetected suction-side leaks. The good news? Most are fixable with basic tools and a little patience.

💡 Pro Tip: If your pump basket doesn’t stay full of water when running, air is entering the system—time to investigate!

Step-by-Step: How to Check for Air Leaks in Pool Plumbing

Follow this systematic method to locate even the tiniest leak. You’ll need soapy water (dish soap + water), a flashlight, and 15–20 minutes.

Step 1: Shut Off the Pump

Turn off the system completely. Safety first—never inspect live plumbing under pressure.

Step 2: Check the Obvious Spots First

Start with high-risk zones:

• Pump lid and strainer basket
• Skimmer and main drain lines
• Valves (especially multiport or diverter valves)
• Union fittings near the pump

Step 3: Apply Soapy Water Solution

Mix 2 tablespoons of dish soap with 1 cup of water. With the pump running, slowly pour or spray this solution over suspected areas.

• If bubbles form or grow, you’ve found your leak.
• No bubbles? Move to the next joint or seal.

🔍 Why this works: Air escaping under suction creates negative pressure. The soapy water is pulled into the leak, forming visible bubbles—just like checking a bike tire.

Step 4: Inspect the Pump Housing

Remove the pump lid and check the O-ring for cracks, flattening, or dryness. A degraded O-ring is one of the most common causes of air leaks. Lubricate it with silicone-based lubricant (never petroleum-based—it damages rubber).

Step 5: Verify Water Level

Ensure your pool water is at least halfway up the skimmer opening. If it’s too low, the skimmer will suck air instead of water—a simple fix!

Step 6: Test Drain Plugs and Drain Ports

Don’t overlook the drain plug on the pump housing or filter air relief valve. These small parts can loosen over time. Tighten by hand only—over-tightening cracks plastic fittings.

Advanced Techniques for Hidden Leaks

If soapy water doesn’t reveal the source, try these pro methods:

The Food Coloring Test

Add a few drops of food coloring near joints while the pump runs. If the color is sucked into a crack, you’ve found the leak.

Pressure Test (for Persistent Issues)

Hire a technician to perform a low-pressure air test on the suction lines. This involves sealing the system and injecting air to detect pressure drops—effective for underground pipe leaks.

🚫 Warning: Never pressure-test suction-side plumbing yourself with high-pressure air. It can damage PVC pipes or cause injury.

For more on plumbing integrity standards, see the Wikipedia entry on PVC piping systems.

Air Leak vs. Water Leak: Know the Difference

Understanding this distinction saves time—and misdiagnosis.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

• Ignoring small bubbles: Even minor air intake stresses the motor.
• Over-tightening unions: Cracks PVC fittings, creating new leaks.
• Using Vaseline on O-rings: Petroleum degrades rubber—use only silicone lubricant.
• Checking only above-ground parts: Underground suction lines can leak, especially in older pools.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can an air leak damage my pool pump?

A: Yes. Running dry or with air causes overheating, seal failure, and motor burnout. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates pool pumps account for up to 40% of home electricity use—protect yours!

Q2: Why does my pump lose prime after I turn it off?

A: A suction-side air leak lets water drain back into the pool when off. When restarted, the pump must re-prime—often unsuccessfully if air enters faster than water.

Q3: How often should I inspect for air leaks?

A: Check monthly during peak season. Also inspect after winterizing, heavy storms, or plumbing work.

Q4: Can I fix an underground air leak myself?

A: Not easily. Underground suction leaks usually require a professional camera inspection or pressure test. DIY attempts often worsen the problem.

Q5: Are air leaks covered by pool warranties?

A: Sometimes—if the leak stems from faulty installation or materials within the warranty period (typically 1–2 years). Wear-and-tear (e.g., dried O-rings) usually isn’t covered.

Q6: Does a saltwater pool system affect air leak detection?

A: No. The detection method is the same. However, saltwater is more corrosive—so inspect fittings and valves more frequently for degradation.

Final Thoughts: Stop Air Leaks Before They Cost You

Knowing how to check for air leaks in pool plumbing isn’t just about fixing bubbles—it’s about protecting your investment, reducing energy bills, and ensuring safe, efficient pool operation. Most leaks are simple to find and fix with basic tools and a methodical approach.

👉 Found this guide helpful? Share it with a fellow pool owner on Facebook or Pinterest! One quick share could save someone hundreds in pump repairs.

And if you’ve tried everything but still hear that annoying gurgle, it might be time to call a certified pool technician—better safe than sorry!

Stay leak-free, stay swimming! 💦