Record the Water-Loss Pattern
Testing starts with how quickly the pool drops, whether the rate changes with the pump, and whether a spa, fountain, heater, cleaner, or automatic fill is involved. The equipment pad is checked for visible water, air entry, valve problems, and discharge paths.
A bucket test can confirm abnormal loss when performed under comparable conditions. It does not identify the source, but it keeps normal evaporation from being mistaken for a plumbing failure.
Use Dye at Quiet Suspect Areas
Dye testing checks skimmer throats, return fittings, light niches, tile-line separations, and visible shell concerns. The water must be still. Movement into an opening supports an active water path; dye drifting in circulating water proves very little.
A positive dye test may keep the investigation at an accessible fitting. A negative result moves attention toward plumbing or another system without opening the pool surface.
Pressure Test Each Plumbing Circuit
A pressure test seals one line and applies a controlled test medium. A stable reading clears that isolated section under the test conditions. Repeatable loss identifies a circuit that needs location work.
Skimmers, returns, cleaners, spas, and water features should not be treated as one plumbing bundle. Incomplete isolation, leaking plugs, and worn valves must be recognized so they do not create a false failure.
Trace and Listen Along a Failed Line
After a buried circuit fails, locating equipment follows its route and listens for a repeatable response created at the break. The strongest sound is compared with pipe direction, fittings, deck seams, soil moisture, and access constraints.
Jupiter's sandy, often damp ground can spread sound differently than dry compacted soil. Acoustic evidence therefore supports the failed pressure test; it does not replace it.
Document Before Access
The result should state what held, what failed, and why the marked area is supported. Photos, test observations, and a clear explanation make it possible to plan a small access point instead of a broad search.
Repair remains a separate decision. Electrical, structural, or drainage work outside pool-plumbing diagnosis belongs with the appropriately qualified trade.