Mix a solution of water and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray it generously around the skimmer, return jets, and any visible fittings. If you see tiny bubbles forming, you’ve found your culprit—like blowing bubbles on a windy day.
This works because escaping air (from a leak) pushes the soap film outward. It’s the same trick you use to find a puncture in a bike tire, but with a more summery outcome. No bike grease involved.
The Night-Time Flashlight Trick (Very CSI)
Wait until dark, turn off all pool lights, and grab a strong flashlight. Hold the flashlight against the pool wall on the outside, and shine it through the liner. Walk slowly around the entire perimeter, looking for a faint glow or shadow inside the pool.
If you see a light spot that looks watery or different from the rest, that’s often where the leak is. It’s like spotting a hidden message in a magic painting—but in this case, the message is, “Hey, I’m leaking here!”
How to Find a Leak in an Above-Ground Pool – Easy Guide