How to Fix a Leak in Your Pond

Swim ponds and ecosystem ponds are beautiful additions to any property, especially when they are properly maintained and cared for. While most ponds require minimal maintenance, they can suffer damage over time that can result in a leak. As a leading provider of quality water features for all types of properties, the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features knows how detrimental leaks can be. That is why we have provided some information to help you understand how to fix a leak in your pond.

Learn why you should hire a professional to install or repair your pond.

Finding and Sealing a Pond Leak

Before jumping to the conclusion that your pond has a leak, it is important to note that ponds naturally lose water due to evaporation. If you are only losing a couple of inches per week during the summer, be sure to consider this cause before searching for leaks. If you fill your pond in the evening and wake up in the morning to find it six inches lower, this is likely a leak and you will need to find and fix the leak as soon as possible or hire a professional.

Finding the Leak

The first step to finding a leak is to fill the pond to the appropriate level. Next, unplug the pump to determine if the leak is in the pump system or the pond itself. If the pond does not leak after unplugging the pump, the leak is in the pump system and you will need to call a professional. If the water continues to drop after the pump is unplugged, the leak is somewhere in the pond liner.

A common cause of leaks is a collapsed pond liner edge. This can happen naturally as dirt, rocks, and other landscape elements settle and move. Check the edges of the pond, stream, and waterfall to make sure that the edge of the liner has not shifted. If it has, lift it back in place and secure it with a large rock. Allow the water to continue to drop. Once it stops dropping, you will know what level the leak is located at, allowing you to narrow your search. Move rocks away from the liner at the level of the leak and look for puncture marks or holes.

Fixing the Leak

Once you locate the leak, you will need to purchase a pond liner patch kit, clean the area, and try to let it dry as much as possible. If you have a patch kit that can be applied when wet, you do not need to let the liner dry, but it is still a good idea to clean the liner before applying the patch. Place the patch and then replace any rocks you may have moved to perform the repair. Once this is done, you can fill the pond up and turn the pump back on.

To learn more about our professional pond installation solutions, get in touch with the team at Fontana Ponds & Water Features. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services.