If your pool is losing water, a professional inspection is the most accurate way to determine the cause. But not every inspection is the same—some cover the entire pool system, while others focus on a specific area. At Pool Patcher®, we offer flexible options so homeowners can choose between a full leak inspection or targeted testing such as a structural or pressure test. Here’s what to expect and why choosing a full inspection often provides the best results for complete pool leak repair.
The Purpose of a Pool Leak Inspection
Every inground pool has two main systems that can develop leaks: the structure and the plumbing. The structure includes the liner, steps, skimmer faceplates, fittings, and light niches. The plumbing consists of underground pipes that connect the returns, skimmers, main drains, and equipment pad. Because leaks can exist in one or both systems, inspections are customized to test either the entire pool or only the specific section where the leak is suspected.
Option 1: Full Leak Inspection (Recommended)
A full inspection is the most complete and reliable option. It includes testing of the entire pool—both the structure and the plumbing. During a full inspection, our technicians check every possible leak source, including the liner, returns, steps, skimmers, main drains, and underground pipes. Specialized electronic sensors, dye tracing, and pressure gauges are used together to locate every hidden issue.
Choosing the full inspection means everything is tested. We’ll examine the pool shell, fittings, gaskets, and underground plumbing lines in one coordinated visit. This eliminates the risk of missing leaks that may exist in more than one area. For example, it’s common for a pool to have a small liner tear and a slow plumbing leak at the same time—both contributing to water loss. The full inspection identifies all of them at once, ensuring the most accurate and complete solution.
Option 2: Targeted Inspections (Single-System Testing)
Sometimes homeowners request testing for only one part of the pool. In that case, our technicians perform what’s known as a targeted inspection. This may involve checking either the pool structure or the plumbing system, depending on what the customer wants tested.
Structural (Liner) Inspection
A structural inspection focuses on visible leak points within the pool shell or liner. This option may include sending a diver into the pool to inspect for tears, seam separations, or small holes. Dye testing is used to confirm suspected leak areas. This approach is ideal for customers who already suspect a liner issue or have visible signs such as wrinkles, bubbles, or water behind the liner.
If only this service is selected, we will not pressure test the plumbing lines or check underground pipes. The diver or surface inspection will be limited to the liner and interior structure only.
Pressure Testing (Plumbing Inspection)
A pressure test is a targeted inspection of the underground plumbing system. Each line—returns, skimmers, main drains, and cleaners—is sealed and pressurized individually to confirm whether it holds pressure or not. If pressure drops, it indicates a plumbing leak somewhere in that specific line.
This type of test is often performed when there are signs of plumbing failure, such as air bubbles, gurgling sounds, or damp soil near the equipment pad. However, unless a full inspection is chosen, pressure testing does not include checks inside the pool shell or liner.
Why Full Inspections Are the Most Reliable
While individual system tests can identify isolated issues, a full inspection gives the most complete picture of your pool’s condition. Water often travels in unexpected paths, so leaks in one area may appear to originate somewhere else. By testing both the structure and plumbing together, Pool Patcher® ensures that no leak source is overlooked.
Homeowners who choose a full inspection usually save time and money in the long run. Instead of scheduling multiple visits or paying for repeat diagnostics, you’ll receive a clear, all-inclusive assessment of your entire pool. The result is faster, more accurate pool leak repair and fewer surprises during the process.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During Your Inspection
- Initial evaluation – We start by reviewing your pool’s symptoms, checking the water level, and noting signs such as wrinkles, bubbles, or ground moisture.
- Testing procedure – Based on the inspection type you’ve chosen, we either perform a full inspection (testing everything) or focus on the requested system (structure or plumbing only).
- Results and explanation – After testing, our technician explains the findings in detail and outlines the next steps for repair.
What’s Included with a Full Inspection
When you select a full inspection, you can expect all of the following to be evaluated:
- Liner and structure tested for holes, tears, or cracks
- All return fittings, lights, and skimmers checked for seal integrity
- All plumbing lines pressure-tested for leaks or pressure drops
- Electronic equipment used to locate hidden underground leaks
- Accurate documentation and repair recommendations
With this comprehensive approach, you’ll know exactly where your pool is losing water—no guessing, no assumptions.
When to Choose a Partial Inspection
If you’ve already had previous diagnostics or are confident about where the leak is, a targeted inspection may make sense. For example, if your liner has visible damage, hiring a diver for a liner inspection alone can confirm the exact spot of the leak before repairs begin. However, if there’s any uncertainty about where the water is escaping, a full inspection is the smarter choice. It ensures that nothing is missed—especially small or hidden leaks that can lead to larger structural problems later.
Schedule an Inspection with Pool Patcher®
Whether you need a diver to inspect your liner or a complete system evaluation, Pool Patcher® provides professional diagnostics and guaranteed results across Ocean County and surrounding areas. Learn more about our pool leak detection services or visit our contact page to schedule your inspection today.
