Florida pool owners know that hidden issues can become costly if not caught early. One of the trickiest problems is plumbing leaks under pool decks. Because these leaks are underground or beneath concrete, they often go unnoticed until damage appears. If you live in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Rotonda, or anywhere in Charlotte County, knowing what to look for can save you thousands in repairs.
🔎 Why Deck Leaks Are Hard to Spot
Unlike surface cracks or visible algae, plumbing leaks under decks stay hidden. Florida’s heavy rains, shifting soils, and aging pool infrastructure make them more common in this region.
🚨 Signs You May Have a Pool Plumbing Leak
- Unexplained Water Loss
If you’re adding more than ½ inch of water per week (outside of normal evaporation), a leak could be the culprit. - Wet Spots Around Decking
Persistent damp areas, even in dry weather, often mean water is seeping from below. - Cracks in Deck or Tiles
Shifting ground from escaping water pressure can lead to cracking. - High Water Bills
A sudden spike in utility bills may indicate continuous water loss. - Air in Pool Returns
If bubbles are visible when the pump runs, air might be entering through a broken underground line.
🛠️ Common Leak Locations
- PVC joints and fittings under decks
- Skimmer connections
- Main drain lines
- Return lines close to coping
✅ What To Do If You Suspect a Leak
- Perform a bucket test to compare pool water loss vs. natural evaporation.
- Check equipment first — pumps, filters, and visible pipes.
- Call a professional leak detection service in Charlotte County before tearing up your deck.
Local companies, including Florida Detail, use specialized tools like pressure testing and listening devices to locate leaks precisely.
🌴 Florida-Specific Challenges
- Hurricane rains saturate soil, making leaks blend in with normal drainage.
- Hot summers cause expansion/contraction of pipes, stressing joints.
- Snowbirds returning after months away often find leaks worsened during downtime.
🧰 Preventive Tips
- Schedule annual inspections with a trusted pool cleaning in Charlotte County.
- Keep deck expansion joints sealed to reduce water intrusion.
- Upgrade old PVC to newer, flexible piping.
- Don’t ignore small water losses — they add up.
For more pool care insights, check NorthPortPoolCompany.com and PoolServiceInPortCharlotte.com.
Final Thoughts
Plumbing leaks under pool decks may start small, but they can undermine your deck, increase bills, and damage your pool structure. The key is knowing the signs and acting quickly.
👉 Visit https://FloridaDetail.com for more pool care tips and to connect with reliable local pros in Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Rotonda, and Charlotte County.
