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Why is Your Inflatable Pool Deflating? Here’s How to Fix It

Why is Your Inflatable Pool Deflating? Here’s How to Fix It

An inflatable pool is a surefire way to turn any backyard into a relaxing escape from reality in a matter of minutes. However, despite the worlds of fun at a fraction of the cost of an in-ground pool, many users become disillusioned when their relaxing pool day is interrupted by a pool that begins to noticeably sag. Why is your inflatable pool deflating, and what can you do about it?

Your inflatable pool is most likely deflating due to changes in the air temperature or because a small hole has formed in the pool’s walls. Although these are the two most likely causes of pool deflation, several other factors could be at the root of your low-air scenario.

The following breakdown looks at all of the possible reasons an inflatable pool may be deflating and provides advice on remedying the situation.

Why is My Inflatable Pool Deflating?

There are a handful of reasons why an inflatable pool could be deflating. In most cases, I have found that the explanation is simple, and the problem can be remedied at home.

Changes in Air Temperature

The most obvious reason that an inflatable pool deflates is due to changes in air temperature. When you fill the inflatable pool, you are introducing warm air. However, the minute you fill the pool with water, these air molecules begin to slow down and become denser as the air cools.

In fact, for every 10-degree drop in air temperature, the pool will lose around 1 PSI of air pressure. As a pool full of water can have a significant cooling effect on air molecules, the deflation can be noticeable.

As a solution, it is a good idea to add some air back to the pool after it has been filled with water. This will help offset the inevitable shrinkage that will occur. In addition, if the pool has been left inflated overnight, be sure to add some more air before jumping in the next day, as the cooler evening temperature will lead to some deflation, as well.

Leak in the Walls

A more serious issue behind the deflation is a hole in the pool causing an air leak. While there are numerous products that will allow you to quickly patch a leaky pool in a matter of minutes, the trick lies in finding the hole itself.

Use the following steps to help identify the source of the leak:

  • Create a soapy mixture. Add five tablespoons of dish soap to a bucket and combine with 20 ounces of water.
  • Spread the soapy mixture. Gently spread the solution over the surface of the inflatable pool. The soapy solution will start to bubble over any leaking area.
  • Mark the area. Use a permanent marker to mark the leaking area, so you know where to apply the patch after the pool has been drained.

After the leak has been located, it is essential to fully drain the inflatable pool and let it fully dry before applying the patch. The patch will not adhere properly if there is moisture present. When applying the patch, it is best to round the edges and ensure that the patch is at least two inches wide to ensure that the hole is thoroughly covered.

Valve Not Properly Closed

Another possible cause of inflatable pool deflation is a valve that is not properly closed. The valves are the areas in which air is introduced. Larger pools will have multiple valves, so there is an increased chance that one of the valves has not been sealed properly.

If your pool is deflating, locate each of the valves and ensure that the cap is on properly and that each valve is embedded back into the body of the pool. Protruding valves open the opportunity for the cap to be knocked off inadvertently.

Natural Seepage

The longer that a pool stays inflated, the greater the likelihood that it will lose some air. Whether it be a combination of the previous factors or simply air from a tightly inflated pool getting gradually squeezed out due to people bouncing around, the pool will lose a little bit of PSI each day.

We have found that it is helpful to add a little bit of air before each use to ensure that the pool stays inflated throughout the session.

Pool Has Gotten Old

Finally, old pools may eventually lose their ability to stay fully inflated for extended periods. Whether holes accumulate or valves begin to weaken, there will come a time when a replacement is necessary. To ensure that your inflatable pool lasts as long as possible, consider the following best practices:

  • Do not leave the pool sitting in the sun when not in use. Like they do everything, UV rays can cause the expedited degradation of pool materials.
  • Do not drag an inflated pool, as this increases the chances of a rock or twig puncture.
  • Deflate the pool before storing.

Conclusion

Inflatable pools are a great way to quickly turn your backyard into an escape. However, it can be frustrating when they start to deflate in the middle of a session.

While the source of the deflation is likely due to temperature changes or small holes in the material, any of the concerns mentioned above could be preventing your pool from holding air, with the suggested remedies effective means of keeping your inflatable pool firm for as long as possible.