Troubleshooting Water Loss in a Pond Holding Tank

Systematic Leak Detection

Since the problem started after repairing a pipe leak, re-examine that repair site first. The fix may have shifted or failed.

Key Questions to Narrow the Search

• Was the holding tank losing water before the pipe repair?
• Is the loss rate the same as before?
• Are waterfall rocks displaced? Water can wick over liner edges if stones are misplaced.
• Is excessive plant growth displacing water over the liner edge?

The Pump Test

Turn off the pump for 24 hours. If the water level stabilizes, the leak is in the plumbing, waterfall, or stream above that level. If it continues dropping, the leak is in the holding tank liner itself (or a fitting below the water line).

Check for Low Edges

Walk the entire perimeter. Look for liner edges that have settled below water level, allowing overflow. Even a small dip can cause significant daily loss.

Evaporation vs. Leak

In hot, windy weather, a large surface area can lose 1/4 to 1/2 inch per day. Measure actual loss in a bucket placed next to the pond to gauge evaporation.