How To Troubleshoot And Fix A Pond Leak

If you want to fix a pond leak, than you first have to assess the leakage cause. Most pond leaks occur in filters, skimmers and waterfalls. Don't panic if you notice a huge loss of water, sometimes it can be very easy to find the leak. However, there are also times where there is more than one leak, and during those times you need to proceed with caution. Here are the main troubleshooting steps for locating the pond leaks.


1. Turn off your equipment


First of all, you have to turn off any waterfall or related water features, including all pumps. Isolate the vortex by closing the valve. Extra care must be paid to fish in terms of water quality and extra aeration if the waterfalls and filter will be turned off. It's very important to notice and mark the water level in regard to the elements which might influence it. Weather, date of the year, amount of water lost, etc. can all prove helpful in your venture.


If you find out that your pond level is going down, then proceed to the next step. Otherwise, skip to step #3.


2. Let the pond establish itself until the water loss ceases


After successfully completing the first step, you now have to let the pond lower down until it stops leaking. Depending on the leak and the pond structure, this might take from a few hours up to one or two weeks. However, the water will eventually stop leaking or show a negligible loss from a certain time. Once again you have to measure and take notes every time as the assessment's progress can be easily forgotten.


Now that water is not dripping anymore, start scanning the water line from the liner up. Do you notice a skimmer in the waterline? Or some other liner perforation such as a jet? In 9 out of 10 cases this is your issue. In this regard, you have to examine and repair or replace as necessary. If the water line has been examined but nothing obvious showed up, than you may proceed to the next step.


3. Examine the Liner


Now you'll have to get inside your pond. Move carefully around the perimeter and take a closer look at the liner. Your face has to be 6 inches away from the liner in order to properly examine it. Keep in mind that even if you're losing a lot of water, the hole might not be very large.


If you still can't find anything than it's important to raise the water level with approximately 1 inch, taking notices once again. Now it's the time to perform an ink/milk test. What this test involves is dropping a syringe full of ink or milk into the water and observe the clouds that form up. Move slowly around the perimeter. If you have a leak, than you'll notice clouds of the substance coming out in little streams out of your pond. That's where your leak is.


- What to do after finding the leak


If you want to fix a pond leak, than you will require some appropriate tools. If the leak is small, than you will have to purchase our repair kit and apply it according to the instructions. If you found larger or multiple holes in your pond leak, than contact us and we'll gladly assist you with the proper materials and techniques