Why Late Summer Water Loss in Your Pool Might Not Just Be Evaporation
A few hot afternoons in August can make anyone want to spend the whole day in the pool. But in Northern California, those late summer days bring more than just perfect swimming weather — they also bring increased evaporation. While it’s normal to see some water loss when the heat kicks up, sometimes it’s more than just the sun at work. If your pool water level is dropping faster than you can refill it, it’s time to look beyond evaporation for other culprits.
How Much Water Loss Is Normal in Late Summer?
On a typical hot day, your pool can lose up to a quarter-inch to half-inch of water through evaporation. With consecutive hot days and warm nights, that can add up to several inches a week. If your pool level is going down noticeably faster than that, there’s likely something else happening — and that’s when you need to start investigating.
Plumbing Leaks
The most common hidden cause of water loss is a leak somewhere in your pool’s plumbing system. Return lines, skimmer lines, or main drains can develop cracks or small separations in joints over time. Even a tiny drip can turn into hundreds of gallons lost over the course of a week. These leaks can be hard to spot since they’re often underground, but signs like soggy spots in the yard, uneven water levels, or unexplained chemical imbalances can point toward plumbing trouble.
Splash-Out from Heavy Use
August is prime pool party season. End-of-summer gatherings mean more people in the pool, more jumping in and out, and more water being displaced. Every cannonball, water volleyball game, or inflatable float battle sends waves over the coping. While splash-out is normal, frequent parties or heavy daily use can lower your water level quickly.
Filter Backwashing
If you have a sand or DE filter, you know backwashing is necessary to keep it working efficiently. The problem comes when it’s done too often or for too long. Every backwash cycle sends a lot of water out of the pool — much more than most people realize. Doing it more than needed, or forgetting to shut off the valve right away, can waste significant water.
Equipment Malfunctions
Even well-maintained pools can develop equipment issues in late summer. Pump fittings, valve seals, and gaskets can wear down after months of constant operation. These small parts can start leaking slowly, and since the water loss is gradual, it’s easy to overlook until the problem gets worse. A quick inspection of your equipment pad can help catch these issues before they cause bigger headaches.
When to Call a Professional
If you suspect your water loss isn’t just from the hot weather, the best next step is a professional inspection. Pool service experts have the tools to pinpoint leaks, check equipment, and test for other problems that could be wasting water. Catching these early not only saves water but also protects your pool structure and keeps your water chemistry stable.
Keep Your Pool Ready for the Rest of Summer
While some water loss in August is normal, big drops in water level shouldn’t be ignored. Whether it’s a plumbing leak, an equipment issue, or just too many splash wars, addressing the cause quickly will keep your pool ready for late summer fun — without running up your water bill.
If you’re in Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, Sheridan, Loomis, or Penryn, American Dream Pool & Spa Service can help diagnose and fix water loss problems so you can keep swimming without worry. Contact us for expert maintenance and repair services tailored to your pool’s needs.
services. They serve the areas of Lincoln, Rocklin, Roseville, Granite Bay, and Sheridan, CA, offering comprehensive care for both residential and commercial pools. Their services include everything from routine maintenance to specialized repairs for pool and spa equipment, ensuring that every pool owner enjoys a clean, safe, and well-maintained pool or spa throughout the year. With a focus on customer satisfaction, American Dream Pool and Spa Service strives to keep pools in top condition, regardless of the season.
