How to check my pool backwash for a leak

Are you noticing water loss in your pool only when the pump is running? Ever wondered how to determine if there's a leak in your pool's backwash system? Hold off on contacting a leak detection specialist just yet.

Frequently, when your pool loses water exclusively during system operation, it's likely due to a leaking backwash valve. Determining whether this is the issue is a straightforward process that can save you a significant amount of money by conducting it yourself. And did we mention it's an easy task?

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to inspect your pool's backwash system for leaks:

1. Turn on your system and head to your equipment to check if you have a multi-port valve, which features a sight glass.

2. Examine the sight glass for any signs of water. If you observe water movement in the sight glass while the system is running, it confirms a backwash leak. However, the absence of water in the sight glass doesn't rule out a potential backwash leak, but it's the initial area to investigate.

3. Proceed to the front of your house to locate the backwash pipeline, typically situated in the flowerbeds near your sewer clean-outs. Finding the backwash pipe may require some detective work.

4. Look for a white pipe emerging from the ground, connecting to another pipe. If you spot such a configuration, you're on the right track.

5. Listen and observe for water flowing from this pipe while your system is running. If you hear or see water, it confirms a leak in your backwash system.

6. If no water emerges from the backwash during system operation, the leak may be elsewhere. At this stage, it might be a good idea to get in touch with a local leak detection company to pinpoint the source of the leak.

7. A backwash leak occurs when water from the pool's filtration system escapes during the backwashing process. Backwashing is a necessary step to clean the pool filter and remove debris and contaminants. However, if there is a leak in the backwash system, it can lead to water loss and potential damage to your pool equipment.

What to do if your backwash valve isn't the culprit:

We at Waves Pool Leak Detection, recommend conducting some investigative work before reaching out to a leak detection company nearby. To ensure that your water loss is indeed due to a leak and not just evaporation, consider performing a pool bucket test. Evaporation tends to be high during the summer months.

For instructions on conducting a bucket test, click here.

Should you discover a leak and require professional assistance in locating it, don't hesitate to contact us at 815-627-0801 or schedule an appointment on our contact page."