How to Fix a Leaky Pool Skimmer
A leaky pool skimmer is one of the more common sources of water loss in residential pools. While it might seem like a small issue at first, ignoring it can lead to structural damage, higher water bills, and problems with circulation. Fortunately, if you catch it early, repairing a leaky skimmer is usually manageable.
Here’s how to tell if your skimmer is leaking and what you can do to fix it.
Common Signs of a Leaky Skimmer
The first sign is usually a noticeable drop in your pool’s water level. If the water level drops quickly and stops around the skimmer, that’s a strong clue. You might also see air bubbles coming from the return jets, which can indicate air is being sucked in through a leak in the suction line or skimmer area.
Other signs include:
Cracks around the skimmer throat or body
Wet spots around the pool deck near the skimmer
The need to refill your pool more often than normal
What Causes a Skimmer Leak?
Most skimmer leaks happen due to:
Age and wear of the skimmer housing
Cracked or shifting pool decks causing movement
Poor installation or ground settling
Separation between the skimmer and pool wall (especially in concrete pools)
How to Fix a Leaky Skimmer
1. Inspect the Skimmer Carefully
Start by turning off the pool pump and checking around the skimmer for visible cracks. Use food coloring or a leak detection dye to see if the water is being pulled into any crevice.
2. Seal Small Cracks with Epoxy or Putty
If the crack is minor and located around the throat or weir of the skimmer, underwater epoxy or a pool putty can often seal the leak. These materials cure underwater and are a good temporary solution.
3. Replace the Skimmer Gasket (for Vinyl Pools)
In vinyl liner pools, a worn or damaged gasket between the skimmer and liner can cause leaks. Replacing the gasket can stop the leak without needing a full repair.
4. Consider Professional Repair or Replacement
If the skimmer body is cracked or pulling away from the pool wall, the best option is to call a professional. This often involves cutting into the deck and replacing the skimmer entirely, especially in older concrete pools.
When to Call for Help
If you’ve tried sealing the leak and your pool is still losing water, the issue might be deeper in the plumbing or structure. A full leak detection test can pinpoint the exact source and ensure it’s properly fixed.
Final Thoughts
A leaking skimmer might seem like a small problem, but it can lead to serious damage over time if not handled correctly. Whether it's a simple fix or a larger repair, addressing it early is always the best move.
If you think your skimmer might be leaking or want a professional to take a look, give Orchid Pools a call or text. We serve Jensen Beach, the Treasure Coast, and all of South Florida with reliable, expert pool care.
About Orchid Pools
At Orchid Pools, we provide reliable and professional pool service throughout Palm Beach County, Martin County, Saint Lucie County, and Indian River County. Our team proudly serves homeowners in Port Saint Lucie, Jensen Beach, Stuart, Palm City, Port Salerno, Hobe Sound, Fort Pierce, Vero Beach, Sebastian, Tequesta, Jupiter, Jupiter Island, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and Juno.
We also serve many neighborhoods across the Treasure Coast and South Florida, including White City, Indian River Estates, Lakewood Park, Sewall’s Point, Saint Lucie West, Tradition, Southbend Lakes, Riverland, Sandhill Crossing, Verano, Hutchinson Island South, and Ocean Breeze.
Orchid Pools offers a complete range of residential pool services, including:
Regular pool cleaning and chemical balancing
Filter cleaning and backwashing
Algae and shock treatments
Pool pump repair and replacement
Pool filter system and heater repairs
Pool leak detection and repair
Skimmer and return line repairs
Pool lighting repair
Pool resurfacing, pool replastering, and pool regrouting
Pool saltwater conversions and pool salt cell cleaning
Pool green-to-clean services
Professional pool inspections
For dependable, expert pool care, call Orchid Pools today.
