No pool is all of the piece — pumps and motors circulate water during debris-catching filters and cleaning feeders, pushing the water in and out of the pool vacuum ports and returns, also called “jets .” Even though it takes a whole group of components to keep your pool trucking, the points at which various components meet are the most susceptible to leaks. To pickup leaks yourself, turn to a different knockout combo — two-part “pool putty” epoxy.
Put on a pair of rubber gloves and fill out a dropper-like tester bottle — the type that comes with pool testing kits — with red food coloring. The red shade contrasts with blue chlorine, assisting you to identify the leak’s particular position.
Position yourself at the edge of the pool so you can reach the leaky jet by lying safely on your stomach, if you’re working with an in-ground pool. For an above-ground pool with no deck, establish a folding ladder near the pool edge. Always have someone spot you, and do not lean the ladder against the pool wall.
Brush the area across the jet thoroughly with a wire brush or stiff-bristled toothbrush to remove algae and debris. This promotes surface adhesion when you use pool putty.
Squeeze a drop of red food coloring near the leaky jet, around the seams of the wall fittings. You will see a red, flowing cloud at the origin of the leak.
Mix the two components of the epoxy, the resin and hardener, collectively. Use equal parts of every one — about a marble-sized quantity of every one does the trick for most jet escapes. Knead them together just like a rubbery clay, using some dabs of pool water if necessary. The putty must take on a doughy, pliable consistency.
Roll the putty to a long, snakelike shape between your gloved palms. Press the roster of putty onto the flow, using your fingers to smooth it in the seam between the jet’s fixtures and the pool wall.
Perform another check with the red food coloring to check your results, and apply more putty as required. Allow the putty to dry completely — special drying times may vary depending on the brand of epoxy.