Why Central Florida Pools Lose Water in Winter: What’s Normal vs. a Leak

Winter in Central Florida may be mild compared to the rest of the country, but it still brings temperature swings, dry air, and windy conditions—all of which affect how much water your pool loses. The challenge for homeowners is knowing what’s normal evaporation and what could be the start of a pool leak.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know, including simple tests you can do at home and when it’s time to call a professional.

Why Pools Lose More Water in Winter

Even though you’re swimming less, your pool may actually lose more water during cooler months. Here’s why:

1. Lower humidity increases evaporation

Central Florida winters are noticeably drier. When humidity drops, water evaporates more quickly — even when temperatures are cooler.

2. Big temperature swings accelerate evaporation

Warm days combined with cool nights increase surface evaporation. Heated pools exaggerate the effect even further.

3. Winter winds pull moisture from the pool surface

A steady breeze moves dry air across your pool’s surface, increasing daily evaporation rates.

4. Heated pools naturally evaporate more

If you run your pool heater in winter, especially in Reunion or vacation-rental communities, evaporation will increase significantly.

How Much Water Loss Is Normal in Central Florida?

Most Florida pools lose approximately ¼–½ inch of water per day to winter evaporation.

This equals:

• 1.5–3.5 inches per week

• 150–300 gallons per week, depending on pool size

If water loss is consistent, gradual, and slows down on humid days, it’s usually normal evaporation.

Signs Your Pool Is Losing Water From a Leak

Evaporation is slow and predictable. Leaks are not. These signs indicate a problem:

1. Water drops more than ½ inch per day

This is the most reliable indicator of a leak.

2. Air bubbles blowing from the returns

Often caused by suction-side leaks.

3. Equipment pad that stays wet or muddy

A pump, filter, or plumbing line may be leaking.

4. Pump losing prime

Air entering the system often indicates an underground leak.

5. Water loss stops when the pump is off

This typically points to a pressure-side leak that appears only when the system is running.

6. Cracks in the pool shell or deck

Structural movement or aging finishes can create leaks around tile lines, steps, or fittings.

If you notice any of the above, it’s time to schedule professional pool leak detection.

DIY Bucket Test: The Easiest Way to Confirm a Leak

This simple test will quickly confirm whether water loss is evaporation or a leak.

How to perform the bucket test:

1. Fill a bucket with pool water to match the pool’s level.

2. Place it on the pool step so it remains partially submerged.

3. Mark the waterline inside the bucket and on the pool wall.

4. Run your pool normally for 24 hours.

5. Compare the two water levels.

Test results:

• If both levels drop the same amount, the loss is evaporation.

• If the pool drops more than the bucket, you have a leak.

Common Causes of Winter Pool Leaks in Florida

Cooler temperatures cause many materials to contract, revealing weaknesses in the pool shell or plumbing. The most frequent winter leaks include:

1. Cracked skimmer throats

Separation between the skimmer and pool shell is one of the most common winter leak points.

2. Damaged return or suction plumbing

High guest turnover in communities like Reunion, Kissimmee, or Davenport puts more stress on underground pipes.

3. Aging or brittle PVC

Florida’s sandy, shifting soil puts pressure on older plumbing systems.

4. Tile-line cracking

Often caused by seasonal ground movement or aging grout.

5. Light-niche leaks

The gasket or housing can degrade over time, allowing water to escape behind the fixture.

When to Call a Professional for Leak Detection

You should schedule an inspection if:

• Water loss exceeds ½ inch per day

• Equipment shows signs of air intake or pressure drops

• You hear hissing, bubbling, or notice cavitation at the pump

• You fail the bucket test

• You need to refill the pool unusually often

• 
  

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to book a pool leak detection appointment in Central Florida.

Preventing Winter Water Loss: Best Practices

A few preventative steps go a long way:

• Keep the waterline midway up the skimmer

• Use a pool cover during cold fronts

• Maintain correct pump run times

• Fix minor cracks and surface issues early

• Check filter pressure regularly

• Schedule annual pool equipment inspections

• Ensure all seals and o-rings are in good condition

Need Help Determining Whether It’s Evaporation or a Leak?

Most homeowners don’t realize they have a leak until their water bill increases or the pump begins taking in air. If you’re unsure, a quick inspection can save time and prevent costly repairs.

Get started by scheduling a professional pool leak inspection today online or call 407-883-0896 for fast, local service.