Return lines carry filtered water back to your pool through the jets in the wall. They're pressurized whenever the pump runs, so even a small crack can push out a surprising amount of water, often under the deck where you can't see it. Pipepoxy by The Leak Geeks seals leaking return lines from the inside with epoxy lining, so the repair doesn't start with a concrete saw.
Signs of a Return Line Leak
- The pool loses more water when the pump is running than when it's off
- Wet or soggy ground along the path between the equipment pad and the pool
- Sinking or cracking deck sections over the pipe run
- A water bill or autofill that keeps climbing
Because return lines are under pressure, a leak can also wash soil out from under your deck over time. Fixing it early protects the deck as well as the water level.
Pinpointing the Return Line First
As a division of The Leak Geeks, every Pipepoxy repair starts with real testing. We isolate each return line and pressure test it separately. If you have more than one return, we find out which one is leaking instead of treating them all. For a full leak investigation, see The Leak Geeks' pool leak detection.
The Pipepoxy Process for Return Lines
- Blow out and dry. We clear standing water from the line and dry the inside of the pipe.
- Sand and clean. A specialized sanding disk cleans the pipe wall to create a good bonding surface.
- Apply Pipepoxy. Our epoxy mixture is precisely measured and applied to coat the inside of the pipe and seal the leak.
- Verify and cure. We pressurize the line with air to confirm the leak is sealed, then let the epoxy cure.
Your deck, pavers or coping stay untouched, the pool stays full, and most repairs are finished the same day.
Return Lines on Older vs. Newer Pools
On older pools in established Columbia neighborhoods, return lines may have decades-old glued joints that finally give way. On newer pools in Lexington and the Lake Murray area, settling backfill can stress fittings in the first years after construction. We see both, and the testing tells us which situation we're dealing with.
When Another Repair Makes More Sense
If a return line is crushed or completely separated, lining may not be the right fix. We'll explain that honestly and point you to the best alternative, including conventional pool plumbing repair through The Leak Geeks.
Where We Work
We're based in West Columbia, and serve pool owners within about 25 miles, including Columbia, Lexington, West Columbia, Cayce, Irmo, Chapin, Gilbert and Lake Murray.
Get a Free Quote
Call 803-570-5283 (open 24/7) or request a free quote. Every Pipepoxy repair is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my pool lose more water with the pump on?
That often points to a leak on the pressure side, such as a return line. Pressure testing confirms it.
Can you repair just one return line?
Yes. We isolate and test each return line and repair only the one that's leaking.
Will the jets work normally afterward?
The line is pressure tested after the repair to confirm the leak is sealed.
Is there a warranty?
Yes, a 1-year warranty on repairs.
Do you serve Irmo and Chapin?
Yes, along with Columbia, Lexington and West Columbia.