Pool Leaks Near the Light: Common Causes

When a pool starts losing water, one of the areas that often raises the most questions is the underwater light. Many homeowners notice the water level dropping, inspect the light fixture, and—if it appears to be in good condition—rule it out as a possible cause.

However, pool leaks near the light are more common than they seem, and in many cases, they have little to do with the light itself and more to do with the components surrounding it.

The Light Niche as a Vulnerable Point

The pool light is installed inside a niche embedded in the pool wall. This niche is not just an accessory—it is a structural area where different materials come together: concrete, seals, electrical conduit, and sometimes plumbing.

Over time, this area can weaken due to:

• Natural structural movement

• Aging or deterioration of seals

• Microcracks in the concrete

• Poorly sealed past repairs

The result is a leak that occurs behind the niche, not at the visible light fixture.

Deteriorated Seals Around the Light

Another common cause of leaks near the pool light is worn or damaged seals that are meant to keep the area watertight. Even if everything looks fine on the surface, a hardened or cracked seal can allow water to slowly pass into the pool wall.

This type of leak is usually slow but persistent and can go unnoticed for weeks or even months.

Microcracks Around the Niche

Microcracks around the light niche are difficult to detect with the naked eye. They are not always visible and often only allow water to pass through when the pool is full.

These cracks typically develop due to:

• Temperature changes

• Constant water pressure

• Soil movement

Over time, they can become a continuous source of water loss.

Why the Light Can Still Work Even If There’s a Leak

A common misconception is believing that if the pool light works properly, there can’t be a leak in that area. In reality, the electrical system may remain intact while the structural sealing has already failed.

This often delays proper diagnosis and allows the leak to continue affecting the pool structure.

Signs of Leaks Near the Pool Light

Some warning signs commonly associated with leaks near the light niche include:

• Constant drop in water level

• Water loss even when the pump is off

• Fine cracks around the light area

• Previous repairs that failed to solve the issue

When these signs appear together, the area should be evaluated more thoroughly.

Common Mistakes When Trying to Fix the Problem

Some of the most frequent mistakes include:

• Replacing the light without inspecting the niche

• Applying sealants only to visible areas

• Ignoring the leak because it “can’t be seen”

These solutions are usually temporary and do not address the real source of the problem.

The Importance of Professional Diagnosis

Properly detecting a leak near the pool light requires evaluating what’s happening behind the niche, not just what’s visible. A professional diagnosis allows technicians to locate the exact source of the leak and apply a long-lasting solution.

At 305 Pool Leak Services, inspections are performed using technical methods that avoid unnecessary surface damage and focus on correcting the true cause of the leak.

It’s Not the Light — It’s What Surrounds It

Pool leaks near the light rarely originate from the fixture itself. In most cases, the issue lies within the niche, the seals, or the surrounding structure.

Detecting these leaks early helps prevent structural damage, ongoing water loss, and costly repairs.

If your pool is losing water and you suspect the problem may be near the light, don’t ignore it.
👉 Click here to schedule a professional inspection and identify the real cause of the leak once and for all.