Performing The Bucket Test

• Fill a 5 gallon bucket to 3/4 full or within 3" from the top.
• Set the bucket on the second step of pool if possible, making sure there the water level is higher on the inside of the bucket. This will prevent the bucket from floating away.
• Make a mark on both inside and outside of the bucket to indicate each water level. Make sure the pump is off and the water is still for this measurement.
• Wait 24 hours.
• Measure the change in water level for each mark.
• If each level changed the same amount, you do not have a leak.
• If the difference on the outside (pool level) is greater than the inside (bucket level) you have a leak. Your pool has lost more water than the natural occurrence of evaporation which is indicated by your bucket level.