When a swimming pool plumbing line breaks beneath a concrete deck, it can lead to many problems, such as significant water loss, high water bills, potential damage to the swimming pool pump itself, and even contribute to soil erosion underneath the pool deck.
Not only does this disrupt the pool’s functionality, but it can lead to massive expenses if left unaddressed. While repairing a broken pool plumbing line under concrete may seem daunting, it can be done efficiently with the right tools and techniques.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.
This is a full-blown, hands-on DIY repair that requires a moderate level of construction knowledge and experience.
Please do not attempt this repair if you are not confident in your ability to:
- Safely pressure test plumbing lines
- Operate power tools like concrete saws, hammer drills, or jackhammers
- Complete the work safely and effectively
If you have a broken plumbing line and would like the entire process expedited, please reach out to us for help. Visit our Contact Page to get started.
Step #1 - Identify the Problem
The first step in repairing a broken swimming pool plumbing line is to confirm that the plumbing line is the problem’s source. When dealing with a broken plumbing line, common signs that a homeowner might see include a drop in water levels in the swimming pool, a wet patch in one area of the yard, a significant increase in their water bill, or even the pump struggling to run if the broken plumbing line is a suction line, like one of the swimming pool skimmers or the main drain.
However, the only way to be 100% sure that the plumbing line is the cause of these issues is by using a pressure testing rig, along with pressure testing plugs, to perform a pressure test on that specific plumbing line. If the line is holding pressure, the issue may lie elsewhere. If the line is broken, you will see a loss of pressure during the test, confirming that the plumbing line you are testing is the culprit.
Step #2 - Locate the Leak
Once you’ve confirmed that the plumbing line is the source of the problem, the next step is to locate the exact spot where the plumbing line is broken. This can be challenging, especially when the line is buried under concrete. One of the most effective methods for locating the break is using an air compressor connected to your pressure testing rig. Here’s how it works:
Hook Up the Air Compressor: Attach the air compressor to the pressure testing rig, making sure the pressure testing rig is connected to the plumbing line that you suspect is broken.
Release Compressed Air: While you are injecting air into one end of the plumbing line and the other end of the plumbing line is sealed shut with a pressure testing plug, the theory is that the only place for the compressed air to escape will be the portion of the plumbing where the break is located. As the air begins to travel through the plumbing line, the compressed air will escape out of the broken portion of the plumbing, causing commotion and an audible bubbling and sloshing of soil underground.
Listen for the Noise: The escaping air will create a disturbance, often accompanied by a hissing, bubbling, or sloshing sound underground.
This noise is caused by the compressed air escaping from the broken plumbing section and pushing through the underground soil. The sound will be most pronounced at the point closest to the break, and you may hear a slight bubbling or gurgling noise that increases in intensity as you get closer to the leak.
Please pay close attention to the direction of the sound, as it will guide you to the exact spot where the break is located. You may also notice vibrations or changes in the soil texture where the air is escaping.
Using this method, you can efficiently locate the leak without digging up large pool deck sections. Once the break is identified, mark the area for easy access during the repair.
Step #3 - Expose the Broken Plumbing Line
Once you’ve pinpointed the location of the broken plumbing line, the next step is to expose it carefully. This involves removing the concrete deck or any other surface covering preventing access to the plumbing. Here’s how you can go about it:
Mark the Area: Based on the noise you heard during the pressure test, mark the area around the suspected break with chalk. This will give you a clear guide for where to focus your efforts.
Remove the Concrete: Use a jackhammer, concrete saw, or another suitable tool to break up and remove the concrete around the marked area. Start by carefully cutting a smaller perimeter around the marked location to avoid unnecessarily damaging the surrounding deck.
Once the concrete is cut, use the jackhammer or saw to break up the surface, keeping the focus on the area directly above the suspected break. Work slowly and methodically to avoid damaging the underlying plumbing and creating large cracks in areas you don’t need to excavate. Use a chisel to lift any stubborn sections of concrete carefully if necessary. Wear protective gear like goggles and gloves to prevent injury from flying debris.
Excavate the Soil: Carefully dig up the soil around the plumbing line with a shovel once the concrete is removed. Be mindful of the depth of the line and avoid excessive digging that could damage the surrounding plumbing lines. Aim to expose a sufficient length of the plumbing line around the break to give you enough room to work and to ensure a clean and secure repair.
After exposing the plumbing, you’ll have full access to the broken line section, making it easier to complete the repair.
Step #4 - Repair the Broken Plumbing Line
Once you have exposed the broken section of the plumbing line, you can repair it. Depending on the type of break and the materials of the plumbing, there are several repair methods you can use:
Prepare the Area: First, clean the exposed area of dirt, debris, and other materials that could interfere with the repair. Ensure the broken section of plumbing is fully accessible and that there is enough space to work.
Cut the Damaged Section: Carefully remove the broken section of the plumbing line using a pipe cutter, a hacksaw, or a sawzall. Make clean, straight cuts to avoid further complications when reconnecting the pipes.
Pressure Test the Plumbing: With the broken portion now cut out, you will first want to pressure test the plumbing line in both directions to ensure no other breaks in the line. This ensures that you’re only dealing with the single broken portion of plumbing. Once you are confident you have identified the only broken section of the plumbing, you can replace the pipe’s damaged portion.
Replace the Broken Portion: After confirming no additional breaks, you may install your new plumbing section. Apply primer and cement to the ends of the pipes before joining them together to create a tight seal. Use the appropriate adhesives or connectors to secure the plumbing for other materials.
Test the Repair: Once the repair is complete, wait 30 minutes and perform another pressure test on the plumbing line to ensure the break has been properly sealed and the plumbing line is holding pressure. You can backfill the hole and restore the concrete deck if the repair holds.
Backfill the Excavation: After confirming the repair, fill the excavation with soil. Start by adding a small layer of soil and tamping it down lightly to ensure a stable base. Continue to add soil in layers, compacting each layer as you go. This prevents any air pockets from settling over time. Ensure the hole is not overfilled above the surrounding deck level, as the soil will settle slightly once compacted. Avoid damaging the newly repaired plumbing line while backfilling, and ensure the area is level and properly compacted to prevent shifting.
Restore the Concrete Deck: It’s time to restore the concrete deck once the hole is filled and compacted. Mix the concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring consistency. Pour the mixed concrete into the excavated area, filling it. Use a trowel or float to smooth the surface of the concrete and ensure it’s level with the surrounding deck. Please pay attention to the texture and finish so it blends well with the rest of the pool deck. If necessary, use a broom or brush to create a textured finish matching the original deck surface. Allow the concrete to cure for at least 24-48 hours before walking on it, depending on weather conditions. Avoid placing any weight or objects on the area until it has fully set.
After completing the repair and restoring the surface, you’ll have a fully functioning plumbing line free of leaks and a solid, even pool deck fully restored to its original appearance. This ensures your swimming pool is back to operating at optimal performance, and any potential damage to the surrounding area has been adequately addressed, preventing future issues.
Step #5 - Test the Pool Plumbing System
After the concrete is repaired and restored, the final step is to test the entire pool system to ensure proper operation.
Check Water Flow: Start by turning on the pool pump and checking for proper water flow. Ensure the water circulates through the system without unusual noises or disruptions. Pay attention to the filter’s pressure gauge to make sure the system is holding pressure and there are no signs of leaks.
Inspect the Pool for Leaks: Inspect the pool for any signs of water leakage, particularly around the area where the repair was made. Monitor the water level over the next few days to ensure it remains stable.
Monitor the Pump’s Operation: Observe the pool pump while running to ensure it operates smoothly. If it was a suction line repair, ensure the pump isn’t struggling or showing signs of reduced suction, such as air bubbles in the system.
Ensure Proper Function of Pool Features: If your pool has water features like fountains, waterfalls, deck jets, or sheer descents, test them to ensure they are functioning correctly and that the water flow is not disrupted.
Final Pressure Test: Perform one last pressure test on the plumbing line to confirm that there are no leaks and that the plumbing line you have repaired is fully functional.
The repair will be complete once you’ve verified that the plumbing line and swimming pool plumbing system are working smoothly.
If you notice any problems during the test, troubleshoot further or consult with a professional to address any lingering issues.
Tips For A Successful Repair
To ensure your swimming pool plumbing line repair is effective and long-lasting, keep these tips in mind:
Use Quality Materials
Always use high-quality materials for repairs, including durable plumbing pipes, fittings, and adhesives. This will ensure a more secure and lasting connection that can withstand the pressure of your pool’s water system.
Take Your Time With the Pressure Test
The pressure testing phase is crucial in identifying the break’s location and confirming the plumbing system’s integrity. Don’t rush this step—accurately diagnosing the location of the problem is key to a successful repair.
Ensure Proper Backfilling and Compaction
After the repair, properly backfill and compact the soil around the plumbing line to prevent settling. This will help avoid potential issues like shifting or further damage to the plumbing.
Keep the Concrete Deck Restoration Smooth
When restoring the concrete deck, ensure the texture and finish match the surrounding surface for a seamless look. This also helps maintain the structural integrity of the deck.
Always Test the System Thoroughly
Don’t skip testing the system thoroughly after completing the repair. Please verify that the plumbing line is holding pressure and that all water features function precisely as they should.
In Conclusion...
Repairing a broken swimming pool plumbing line under concrete may seem complex, but it can be a manageable and rewarding DIY project with the right tools, knowledge, and preparation. By following these steps carefully—from confirming the problem with pressure tests to restoring the concrete deck—you can fix the issue and restore your pool to its full functionality.
However, if you encounter any challenges or if the repair becomes too complex, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional. At Precision Leak Detection, located in West Palm Beach, Florida, we specialize in finding broken plumbing lines and streamlining the repair process to make it completely painless for you. Our expertise ensures the job is done safely, effectively, and efficiently, saving time and preventing further damage.
Contact us today to help you repair your plumbing line stress-free and get it back to perfect working order. By addressing plumbing issues promptly and maintaining your pool system, you’ll ensure your swimming pool continues to provide years of enjoyment without costly water loss or equipment damage.
