Intermittent Water Loss in a 3600-Gallon Pond: Leak or Evaporation?

Quantify the Loss

"Large amounts" is vague. Measure: inches per day? Gallons per refill? Evaporation in hot, windy weather can be 1/4-1/2 inch/day on a 3,600-gal pond (~100-200 gal/day). A leak loses water 24/7 regardless of weather.

Leak Detection Steps

1. Turn off pump for 24 hrs. If level drops, leak is in liner/plumbing below water line.
2. If level holds, leak is in waterfall, stream, or plumbing above water line.
3. Check waterfall rocks for displacement causing wicking.
4. Inspect liner edges for low spots.
5. Look for wet spots around perimeter after dry days.

Weather Correlation

Track loss vs. temperature, wind, humidity. High loss on hot/windy days = evaporation. Consistent loss regardless of weather = leak.