Yes, a constantly running autofill is almost always compensating for an active leak. The autofill keeps the pool topped up while the leak continues undetected. Here is how to confirm it.
Call (954) 290-5177, Free Estimate →Yes. A pool autofill that runs frequently or constantly is almost always compensating for an active leak. The autofill float valve is designed to top off small losses from normal evaporation, not to replace a continuous stream of escaping water. When it runs for long periods or cycles on throughout the day, the pool is losing water faster than evaporation explains. Turn off the autofill for 24 hours and watch the water level to confirm.
Locate and shut the autofill isolation valve, usually at the equipment pad, at a float box near the skimmer, or inside the skimmer itself. Turn it completely off.
Place tape at the waterline or mark the tile grout line. Note the time and date.
Do not add water. Run the pool on normal schedule. After 24 hours, measure how far the level has dropped.
Up to a quarter inch: normal evaporation. More than a quarter inch, especially a half inch or more: the pool is losing water beyond what the climate accounts for. Call for a detection visit.
Use the free Leak Analyzer and Evaporation Calculator from Leak Business Academy.
Leak Analyzer → Evaporation Calculator →Autofill masking is the most common reason a pool leak goes undetected for a long time. The pool looks fine. The water is at the right level. Nobody notices anything. The only sign is that the water bill has crept up, and most homeowners don't connect a higher water bill to the pool autofill.
If you are not sure whether your autofill is running more than it should, just turn it off for a day and watch. The pool will tell you what it is doing. If it drops more than a quarter inch overnight, you have a leak, and we can find it.
Leak and Subsurface Locators serves South Florida for pool leak detection. Licensed CPC1457277. Free estimate before scheduling.
(954) 290-5177 (561) 325-2678 (561) 325-2678Yes. An autofill float valve that is stuck open, has a failed float, or is out of adjustment can add water even when the pool is at the correct level. This would cause the pool to overflow rather than stay steady, and the water bill would still be elevated. A stuck-open autofill is worth checking at the float mechanism or the supply valve. However, a malfunctioning autofill is far less common than an autofill compensating for a real leak.
Not for 24 to 48 hours. If the pool is losing water significantly, the level may drop below the skimmer and the pump may lose prime, in which case turn the pump off and restore the autofill. For the diagnostic test, monitor the level and intervene if it drops below the skimmer before 24 hours.
Absolutely. An elevated water bill with a pool at the correct water level is a common presentation of autofill masking a leak. The pool is fine because the autofill is keeping it topped up. The water bill is high because that compensation is measurable at the meter. Turn the autofill off and measure the level drop.