Pool Leak Dye Test vs Pressure Test: Which One Finds Your Arlington Leak?

A dye test and a pressure test find different kinds of pool leaks. A dye test uses a few drops of colored dye near cracks, lights, returns and the skimmer to see if water is being pulled out. A pressure test seals each buried pipe and pressurizes it to see if it holds. Most pool leak visits in Arlington use both, and pool leak detection runs about $250 to $550. Call (817) 285-5426.

Before any test, confirm it is a leak and not evaporation. Our guide to pool leak detection arlington tx shows the bucket test step by step.

What is a pool leak dye test?

A dye test is a visual test done with the pump off and the water still. The tech or a diver releases a small puff of dye next to a suspected spot. If there is a leak, the dye is pulled into the crack or gap. It works best for leaks in the shell, light niches, skimmer throats, return fittings, main drains and tile lines.

• Fast and low cost for spots you can see.
• Shows the exact gap, so a repair can be planned.
• Cannot see leaks in pipes buried under the deck.

What is a pool pressure test?

A pressure test checks the plumbing lines that run under the deck. Each line is plugged at the pool end, then air or water pressure is added at the equipment pad. If the gauge drops, that line leaks. The tech then uses a listening device on the deck to find the spot and mark it before any concrete is cut.

• Finds leaks in skimmer, main drain and return lines.
• Tests one line at a time, so you know which pipe is bad.
• Works with acoustic gear to mark the exact spot.

Buried line leaks are covered in our pool plumbing leak guide.

Which test do you need?

Run a simple pump test first. If the pool loses about the same amount with the pump on or off, the leak is likely in the shell or a fitting, and a dye test fits. If it loses more with the pump on, a pressure line may be leaking. If it loses more with the pump off, a suction line or main drain is a common cause. A full visit checks both so nothing is missed.

1. Fill the pool to its normal level and mark it with tape.
2. Run the pump for 24 hours and measure the drop.
3. Turn the pump off for 24 hours and measure again.
4. Write down both numbers for the technician.

Why do Arlington pools leak?

North Texas clay soil swells after rain and shrinks in hot, dry months. That movement can crack plaster, pull light conduits and stress buried pipes. Freeze events, like the ones in recent winters, can also split exposed pipes at the equipment pad. Older pools near Lake Arlington and in established neighborhoods often have original plumbing that is past its prime.

How much does a pool leak test cost?

Pool leak detection in Arlington usually costs about $250 to $550 for a home pool. That includes the dye checks, line pressure tests and marking the leak. Repairs are priced after the leak is found. A pool with a spa or a lot of lines can take longer.

General estimates for Arlington, TX in 2026. Your exact price is confirmed before any work begins.

Book with our swimming pool leak detection Arlington TX team, or read the pool leak detection cost guide for more detail.