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While some water loss from splashing and evaporation is normal, a rapid or excessive drop in the water level may indicate a leak. Other signs of a pool leak include unexplained soft or wet spots in the yard, cracks in the pool structure or falling tiles, higher-than-normal water bills, persistent algae growth or water discoloration, and standing water around the pump, pipes, or other pool equipment.

Generally, you do not need to drain your pool to convert it to a saltwater system. The main exception is if you have used an antibacterial agent containing polyhexamethylene biguanide to sanitize your pool, as these sanitation products do not mix well with saltwater systems. If this is the case, you will need to start fresh. You can either drain the pool or treat the existing water with a high dose of chlorine to remove the antibacterial agent. If you choose the chlorine treatment, wait several days to allow the chlorine to work before proceeding with the conversion. If you are unsure whether this applies to your pool, consult a pool technician.

An easy way to know whether your sand filter has enough sand is to check how full the filter is and what the sand looks and feels like. The filter container should be two-thirds to three-quarters full of sand. Look for interior marks indicating the ideal sand level. If you put your hand into the sand, it should flow through your fingers without clumping. The filter pressure gauge is also an easy indicator—the right amount of sand leads to normal pressure, while too much or too little sand can cause high or low pressure.

The best time to schedule an annual pool inspection is early or late spring, before the busy summer season. Your inspector can identify urgent issues so you can address them before using the pool. If your region is warm year-round, schedule an inspection before you start swimming regularly.