How to Repair a Pool Skimmer Leak

How to Repair a Pool Skimmer Leak
Published: Jun 6, 2008
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

But if the water level drops an inch or more per day during rainy weather, there may be a pool skimmer box leak. This is a weak area of the pool and probably the most common source of leaks.

Things You Will Need

  • Red food dye
  • Pool repair putty epoxy stick
  1. With the pool pump off, remove the cover to the pool skimmer box. The pool water level must be above the area where the skimmer box meets the pool wall. If it is not, add water to the pool until it is at least 1 inch above this seam.

  2. Add a few drops of red food coloring into the water at the skimmer box and watch to see if the water is flowing. If you see red dye flowing through the pool wall at the seam, you have located the leak.

  3. Apply some pool repair putty/epoxy stick adhesive sealant to the affected area. Remove a piece of the putty from the tube and knead it with your fingers until it becomes pliable. Bring the kneaded putty under water to where the leak is located. Press the putty into place with your fingers, then rub it smooth. The putty will cure to white within 30 minutes.

  4. Check for other leaks If the water level continues to drop after using the adhesive. Other common sources of leaks are the areas around the vacuum and return fittings.

The Drip Cap

  • An in-ground pool requires regular maintenance and upkeep.
  • But if the water level drops an inch or more per day during rainy weather, there may be a pool skimmer box leak.
  • Remove a piece of the putty from the tube and knead it with your fingers until it becomes pliable.

Photo Credits

by Ben Grogan

by Ben Grogan

Rosemary Rugnetta

Based in Florida, Rosemary Rugnetta has been a freelance writer since 2007 specializing in home and garden topics and real estate/mortgage. She is a former property manager and mortgage underwriter who writes for eHow and Answerbag as well…

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