The Bucket Test
                                      Is it time for a leak detection or is my water loss just evaporation?
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A pool bucket test is a simple method to determine the rate at which water is being lost from a pool, which will help identify if the pool is leaking. The test involves comparing the water level inside the pool to the water level inside a bucket placed on the pool steps or at the pool's edge. Here's how it works:

1. Fill the pool: Start by ensuring that the pool is filled to its normal operating level. This is the level at which the water is normally maintained.

2. Fill the bucket: Fill a clean, sturdy bucket with water from the pool, to about an inch from the top of the bucket.

3.Mark the water levels: Place the bucket on the steps or ledge of the pool, allow time for the pool water to calm and become still. Use a marker or tape to mark both the water level inside the bucket and the water level in the pool. Take 2 photos, one of the mark outside of the bucket and one inside the bucket. This will provide you history that your marks were level with the pool and bucket water. 

4.Wait and observe: Leave the pool and bucket undisturbed for 24 hours. During this time, it's important to avoid any pool usage or activities that may cause water splashing or disturbances.

5.Compare the water levels: After 24 hours, examine and measure the change in water level using the marks inside and outside the bucket. Also take photos of the results inside the pool and inside the bucket from the same angle. These photos are helpful to leak detection technicians along with your measured recorded the results. 

6.Analyze the results: If the water level in the pool has dropped more than the water level in the bucket, it suggests that there may be a leak in the pool. The larger the difference between the two water levels, the more significant the leak may be. If the water levels have remained equal, it indicates that the water loss is due to evaporation and you do not have a leak in the pool. 

     24 Hour Example
In photo 1 we can see the pool water level is below the black tape. In photo 2 the bucket water level is still at the black tape. Indicating the water loss is not from evaporation but a leak in the pool.