How to Find a Leak in Your Pond
Few things are more stressful for a pond owner than watching the water level drop. The good news is that most pond leaks are fixable, and many can be found with a simple, step‑by‑step process.
Watch our in-depth step by step video when you're ready to tackle this common pond issue:
How We Diagnose Pond Leaks (The Elite Diagnostic Method)
Step 1: Rule Out Evaporation
Before assuming you have a leak, remember that evaporation is normal.
Use an evaporation estimator to determine if your water loss is excessive for your area. Water movement should always be listed as excessive if you have a waterfall or fountain. Anderson Manufacturing Company, Inc.: Evaporation Estimator
If the water loss is more than that, especially overnight, you likely have a leak.
Tip: Mark the waterline with tape and check it 24 hours later.
Step 2: Turn Off the Pump
Shut off your pump for 24 hours.
If the water level continues to drop, the leak is in the pond basin or liner.
If the water level stops dropping, the leak is likely in the plumbing, waterfall, or stream.
Skimmers, underground basins, gravity fed filter systems, and bulkheads may also be failure points that can create a bit of confusion here, so it is best to start this process with a good understanding of how your pond is put together.
This single step helps locate the lowest problem area fast.
Step 3: Inspect the Waterfall & Stream
Most pond leaks happen outside the main pond. It is atypical that the liner of the pond needs to be removed and replaced. First, check for:
Rocks that shifted along pond edges
Expose liner edges that are unseen around pond and any area where water is moving
Water splashing out of the stream
Mulch or soil that looks unusually wet (not very typical but you may get lucky!
Even a small splash‑out can drain an unexpected amount of gallons per day.
Step 4: Check the Liner & Edges
If the water level drops to a certain point and then stops, the leak is usually:
A hole or tear at that exact waterline
A low edge where water escapes
A plant or rock pulling the liner down
Remove debris and inspect carefully.
When to Call a Professional
If the leak isn’t obvious or involves buried plumbing, a professional leak detection service can save time and prevent damage.
Need help? Rock Water Ponds specializes in pond leak detection and repair.