Living in Arizona means dealing with intense heat, dry air, and strong sun exposure, factors that can seriously affect how much water your pool loses. Pool owners often notice a steady drop in water levels, even without heavy use or visible leaks. So, how much water does a pool really lose in Arizona? And what can you do to reduce it? Let’s dive into the answers.
Average Water Loss in Arizona Pools
Evaporation is the main reason pools lose water in Arizona. With summer temperatures frequently soaring above 100°F and humidity levels staying low, water evaporates quickly.
On average, a typical backyard pool in Arizona loses ¼ to ½ inch of water per day due to evaporation. That might not seem like much, but it adds up:
- Weekly loss: Up to 3.5 inches.
- Monthly loss: Around 10 to 15% of your pool’s volume.
- Annual loss: Tens of thousands of gallons.
For example, a 15,000-gallon pool could lose over 30,000 gallons of water per year just from evaporation alone. That’s not just wasteful, it’s expensive and hard on Arizona’s already limited water supply.
Other Causes of Pool Water Loss
While evaporation is the main culprit, other factors can also contribute:
- Splash-out from swimmers: Jumping, diving, and playing can spill a surprising amount of water.
- Backwashing the filter: Regular maintenance often includes backwashing, which uses water to clean the filter and drains it out of the pool system.
- Leaks: Cracks in pool surfaces or plumbing issues can cause slow, continuous water loss.
- Heated pools: Heating increases the evaporation rate, especially at night when the air cools quickly.
Being aware of these additional causes helps you monitor your pool more effectively. Regular checks can prevent small issues from turning into costly water loss.
Signs Your Pool Is Losing Too Much Water
Not sure if the water loss is normal? Here are signs that it might be excessive:
- Water level drops over ½ inch per day.
- Pool equipment is sucking air.
- Wet spots around your pool deck or yard (possible leaks).
To test for leaks, try the bucket test:
- Fill a bucket with water and place it on the pool step.
- Mark the water level inside the bucket and on the outside (pool water level).
- Wait 24–48 hours.
If the pool water drops significantly more than the bucket, you likely have a leak.
How to Reduce Pool Water Loss in Arizona
There are several simple and effective ways to reduce water loss and save money, which are given are as.
1. Use a Pool Cover
Pool covers are your best defense against evaporation. A cover can reduce water loss by up to 90%. it also keeps your pool cleaner and reduces chemical use.
2. Install a Windbreak
Wind accelerates evaporation. Adding privacy walls, hedges, or fencing can block wind and slow water loss. Position these barriers on the sides where wind usually blows in.
3. Lower the Water Temperature
If your pool is heated, turning down the temperature even slightly can help. Consider using a solar cover or turning off the heater during the hottest months.
4. Limit Splashing
Encourage gentle pool use. While cannonballs are fun, they also waste water. You can also install splash guards or adjust return jets to reduce overflow.
5. Fix Leaks Promptly
If you suspect a leak, don’t wait. Call a pool technician to diagnose and repair it quickly. Leaks can waste thousands of gallons each month.
6. Maintain Proper Water Levels
Keep the water level at the midpoint of the skimmer. Too high leads to splash-out; too low can damage the pump.
7. Check Pool Equipment
Make sure all plumbing, valves, and filters are working efficiently. Older systems may develop small leaks that go unnoticed.
By following these simple tips, you can save water, lower your bills, and keep your pool in great shape. Every small step helps in conserving Arizona’s precious water resources.
Saving Water Is Saving Money
In Arizona, water is precious and expensive. By controlling pool water loss, you’re not only reducing your water bill but also helping the environment.
Final Thoughts
In Arizona’s hot and dry weather, some pool water loss is normal—but losing too much isn’t. When you know how much water your pool usually loses and take a few simple steps to reduce it, you can keep your pool full and save water.
Whether you use a pool cover or improve your pool habits, every drop counts. For more help, Arizona Pool Builders can offer tips and solutions to make your pool more water-efficient.
