Continually leaking vinyl pool… Pool cleaner at fault?

[JWB]

We have a 16x30 covered vinyl pool that sporadically leaks and needs to be re-patched every year by a service. Last summer, we ended the swimming season without problems and the water level stayed consistent to February of this year. Recently, I cleaned our DE filter, which always produces good water flow and pressure. Almost immediately after cleaning the pool with our Hayward Navigator, the water level started to decrease again and it’s now down below the skimmer intake plate.

My theory is that the Hayward, with renewed suction, is tearing at the existing patches and enabling water to find a path below the concrete. Am I nuts? How else can a pool suddenly begin leaking when it hasn’t had any activity (except for cleaning) in six months? Any thoughts? The service is coming out again Monday.

Thanks, Jon

[JohnT]

How old is the liner? My first guess would be that the liner is shot.

[JWB]

I don't know... it came with the house. Probably over 10 years.

[aylad]

I agree, sounds like your liner is shot. It's possible that the cleaner is pulling up the patches, or maybe even creating pinholes in a too-thin area of the liner. Are the patches all in the same general area?

Janet