Maintaining the right water level in your swimming pool is more important than most pool owners realize. While low water levels can lead to pump damage and overheating, high water levels come with their own set of complications. Understanding what happens if pool water level is too high is essential for preserving the integrity of your pool, ensuring safety, and avoiding costly repairs. In this article, we’ll dive into the effects of high water levels, the signs you should be watching for, and the best ways to manage and prevent them.
Why the Water Level Matters in Your Swimming Pool
The ideal water level for a swimming pool typically ranges between one-third to halfway up the skimmer opening. This positioning allows the skimmer to function effectively, pulling in surface water and debris. When the water level rises above this range—often due to heavy rainfall, overfilling, or malfunctioning automatic fill systems—several key components of your pool system can be negatively affected.
Maintaining the correct water level is not only a matter of aesthetics but also about maximizing functionality and energy efficiency. Incorrect water levels can disrupt filtration cycles, lead to inefficient chemical distribution, and even impact the balance of the pool structure.
Components Commonly Affected by High Water Levels
- The pool skimmer
- The pump system
- Water circulation and filtration
- Pool cleaning equipment, such as automatic pool cleaners
- Heating systems
Let’s explore each of these areas in more detail to understand the exact ramifications of a high water level.
The Immediate Effects of High Pool Water Levels
When water levels rise above normal, the first signs of trouble often appear around the skimmer and the pump system. Let’s break down the immediate effects of high water levels on your pool’s operation.
Skimmer Inefficiency
The skimmer is designed to draw water from the surface, collecting floating debris such as leaves, bugs, and oils before they can sink. However, when the water level is too high, the skimmer might be completely submerged. This can have the following consequences:
- Reduced surface debris removal: The skimmer can no longer effectively pull contaminants from the top layer of the water.
- Poor water circulation: With the skimmer overwhelmed by high water, overall flow through the system becomes impaired, affecting chemical dispersion and filtration efficiency.
Disruption of the Pump Intake
While excessive water rarely causes air locks in the pump (which are typically the result of low water levels), it can still impact the system. For example, during heavy rainstorms or overfilling, excess water may cause imbalances in pool chemistry, leading to the need for more frequent adjustments and potential cloudiness or scaling.
Potential Structural and Operational Damages
Beyond operational inefficiencies, high water levels can lead to more serious and lasting damage to your pool if left unchecked.
Damage to Pool Deck and Surroundings
Excess water can spill over the edge of an in-ground pool or overflow from an above-ground model, potentially eroding the surrounding pool deck or landscaping. This is especially problematic for:
- Pools with improperly sloped decks that direct overflow toward the house or foundation
- Pools surrounded by grass, wood, or sensitive materials that can be damaged by constant moisture exposure
Over time, this erosion can compromise the stability of the pool structure and even lead to costly landscape repairs.
Cleaning System Malfunction
Automatic pool cleaners—especially robotic and suction-side models—rely on a certain water level for efficient operation. Excess water can:
- Make it harder for robotic cleaners to maintain proper traction
- Interfere with the pressure balance in suction cleaners
- Prevent proper attachment or connection of the vacuum head to the waterline
This results in longer cleaning times and sometimes incomplete coverage, leaving more debris in your pool.
Heater Problems
High water levels can occasionally impact pool heating systems. While not a direct cause of damage, if overflow reaches the heater control panel or vents, especially for outdoor heaters mounted near the pool equipment, it could cause corrosion or malfunctions.
Problems with Pool Covers and Winterization
If you use a safety cover or winter cover without proper water level control, excessive water on the cover—especially during winter—can:
- Put undue pressure on the cover and support system
- Sink the cover into the pool, increasing strain and risk of tearing
- Allow rainwater and debris to flow under the cover, defeating its purpose
Prolonged Impact on Pool Chemistry
One often overlooked aspect of high water levels is their effect on the chemical balance in your pool.
Dilution of Pool Chemicals
If you’ve manually added chemicals to your pool and the water level increases shortly afterward (e.g., due to rainfall), those chemicals become diluted. This dilution can lead to:
- Lower sanitizer levels (chlorine, bromine, etc.)
- Increased risk of algae growth and bacterial contamination
- Unbalanced pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness, requiring more frequent adjustments
This creates a cycle of imbalance that can be costly and time-consuming to correct, particularly in regions with frequent heavy rains.
Increased Need for Maintenance
With a high water level, it takes longer for chemicals to stabilize and for the water circulation system to work properly. This means:
- More manual pool skimming and vacuuming needed
- Higher chemical consumption over time
- More frequent filter cleanings to compensate for poor circulation
Regular water level checks can help you prevent a surge in maintenance needs and keep your chemical costs under control.
Impacts on Pool Equipment and Longevity
Damage to the Pool Skimmer
The skimmer itself isn’t designed to be submerged entirely. If water levels rise so that the skimmer flange is under water, the skimmer door (which allows water in) can be jammed open by debris, leading to inefficient intake cycles or potential mechanical issues.
Pump and Filter Strain
Excessive water can overwhelm your filter system, especially during periods of high backpressure. While not immediately damaging, consistent strain due to poor water flow:
- Shortens the lifespan of your filter
- Increases the wear on your pump motor
- Can lead to reduced water clarity and more frequent algae outbreaks
Automatic Fill Devices
If you have an automatic pool water leveler that uses a float switch, excessive water levels may indicate a malfunction. For example:
- The device fails to shut off the water supply
- False readings cause the system to under- or over-fill
- The float mechanism gets stuck in place
This failure can not only lead to consistently high water levels but also water waste or unnecessary water bills.
How to Lower and Maintain Proper Pool Water Levels
Maintaining the right water level is not just about lowering excess—it’s also about regular monitoring, smart landscape design, and using technology effectively. Let’s explore proven techniques to bring your water back to the ideal range.
1. Use a Submersible Pump
A submersible pump (sometimes called a pond pump or pool pump) is the most direct method for lowering high water levels. Place the pump in the deep end of the pool, connect it to a garden hose, and direct the water runoff away from the pool area to avoid erosion or re-entry into the pool.
2. Drain Water through the Filter System
Some pool filters have a “drain” or “waste” setting that allows you to release excess water directly without going through the filter. This is useful when your water level is slightly elevated and you want to avoid disturbing the chemical balance too much.
Steps to Drain via Filter Valve:
- Turn off the pool pump.
- Switch the filter valve to “Drain” or “Waste.”
- Turn the pump back on and allow it to run until the water level is lowered to the desired point.
- Switch the setting back to “Filter.”
3. Install a Water Leveling System
To avoid future issues, consider investing in an automatic water leveler. These systems:
- Use a float or sensor to detect high or low water levels
- Automatically add or stop water intake via a connected hose or municipal water line
Models vary in price and complexity, but they are especially useful in areas with heavy rainfall or where maintenance time is limited.
4. Manual Skimming and Adjustment
Sometimes, the simplest solution—like manually skimming a few inches of water from the pool—can be effective in the short term if the level is only slightly raised.
Signs That Your Pool Water Is Too High
Knowing how to spot excessive water levels can help you react quickly before damage occurs.
- Skimmer seems to be fully submerged or not drawing water properly
- Water is at or above the midpoint of the tile line
- Pool cleaners aren’t functioning correctly, slipping or stalling
- Overflowing water is visibly touching equipment, furniture, or structures
- Manual filtration and skimming seem less effective than usual
If you notice any of these, check your water level and take corrective action before problems escalate.
Preventive Strategies to Avoid High Water Levels
The best way to manage high pool water is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are a few proactive strategies you can implement.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance Checks
Establish a regular maintenance schedule that includes daily or weekly inspections of your water level. This will allow you to catch slight increases before they become problematic.
Landscaping Considerations
Ensure your yard or pool deck has proper grading to direct excess runoff away from the pool. Install drainage systems if needed. This is particularly important in areas with heavy annual rainfall.
Installation of Overflow Drains
Some pools come equipped with overflow drains (typically located near the top edge), but not all do. Adding one or ensuring it remains unblocked can prevent excessive water from damaging the surrounding area.
Smart Water Monitoring Systems
Consider using digital pool monitoring tools that send alerts to your smartphone when water levels exceed normal values. These systems give you real-time feedback and can even integrate with your automatic water leveler.
Conclusion: Maintaining Optimal Water Levels Is Key
Dealing with high pool water levels is more than just a minor inconvenience—it directly impacts how your pool performs, how long it lasts, and how safe it is for swimmers. From operational inefficiencies with the skimmer and filtration system to potential structural damage, it’s crucial to monitor and manage your pool’s water level regularly.
By understanding what happens if pool water level is too high and taking proactive steps to maintain proper levels, you can avoid costly repairs, ensure better water chemistry, and keep your pool looking and functioning its best. Whether you use manual methods, invest in automated systems, or rely on regular maintenance, staying on top of your water level is an essential part of pool ownership.
A properly balanced water level not only keeps your pool in top condition—it also keeps your swimming experience safe, enjoyable, and stress-free.
What happens if the pool water level is too high?
When the water level in a pool rises beyond the recommended level, typically above the midpoint of the skimmer opening, the skimmer’s ability to function properly is hindered. This can result in poor water circulation and inadequate surface debris removal, since the skimmer is designed to draw in water from the surface. If the water level is too high, it may prevent the skimmer from drawing in water efficiently, which can lead to a buildup of leaves, bugs, and other floating contaminants on the pool surface.
Moreover, excessive water levels can interfere with the pool’s overall filtration process, reducing the effectiveness of water cleaning and chemical distribution. This imbalance can cause algae growth, cloudy water, and even damage pool equipment over time if not corrected. Maintaining the proper water level ensures your pool’s system functions optimally and keeps the swimming environment clean and safe.
Can high pool water level damage the pool equipment?
Yes, a high water level can negatively impact pool equipment, especially the skimmer and the pump. When water is too high, it can prevent the skimmer from creating the proper flow of water, which in turn can cause the pump to pull air instead of water. This condition, known as cavitation, can lead to damage or failure of the pump motor, which can be costly to repair or replace. It’s essential to maintain appropriate water levels to prevent undue stress on your pool’s mechanical systems.
Additionally, improper water levels can interfere with the chemical dispenser or automatic chlorinator, which relies on a steady flow of water to function correctly. If water is too high, these devices might not dispense chlorine effectively, leading to inconsistent sanitization and potential water balance issues. Keeping the water at the right level helps ensure your equipment runs smoothly and extends the lifespan of your system components.
How can high water levels affect pool cleaning and maintenance?
High water levels can make routine pool cleaning and maintenance more difficult and less efficient. For instance, automatic pool cleaners and manual skimming tools may not function properly if the water is too high, especially around the skimmer inlet. This can result in poor debris collection and an uneven clean, leaving certain areas of the pool dirtier than others. Pool vacuums might also lose prime or struggle to maintain suction due to improper water levels.
Moreover, when water levels exceed the recommended height, maintenance tasks like brushing the walls, checking chemical levels, and emptying skimmer baskets can become more cumbersome. Excess water may also spill over during cleaning, leading to wastage and possible water damage around the pool area. Keeping water at the correct level simplifies maintenance and reduces long-term wear and tear on both the pool and its accessories.
Does high water level affect chlorine effectiveness?
Yes, an overly high water level can impair the effectiveness of chlorine in your pool. Most pools use a skimmer-based system to circulate and treat water, including chlorine tablets or sticks that dissolve as water passes through the chlorinator. If the water level is too high, the chlorinator may not receive enough water flow to dissolve the chlorine at the intended rate, leading to low sanitizer levels.
This can cause the chlorine concentration to drop below the necessary levels for disinfecting the pool water, increasing the risk of algae growth, bacteria, and other contaminants. To maintain proper sanitation and ensure swimmer safety, it’s important that the water level remains within the recommended range so that all chemical feeders function correctly and pool water is consistently treated.
What are the signs of an overly high pool water level?
One of the most noticeable signs of a high water level is when the pool water spills over or nearly reaches the top of the pool deck during normal use. Additionally, if the water level is above the skimmer’s midpoint or covers the return jets, it may impact the skimmer’s ability to draw in water effectively. This can result in floating debris remaining on the surface for extended periods, even with the filtration system running.
Another indicator is inconsistent operation of pool equipment, such as the pump making unusual noises or losing prime. You may also notice that the pool cleaner isn’t performing as expected or that the chlorine levels fluctuate without explanation. Being attentive to these signs allows for early detection and correction, preventing potential damage and ensuring cleaner, safer water.
How do I lower my pool’s water level if it’s too high?
To lower an excessively high pool water level, you can manually remove water using a submersible pump or by partially draining through the filter system on waste or drain settings if your filter valve allows. A garden hose and submersible pump can be used to direct water away from the pool area, being careful not to damage surrounding landscaping. It’s important to be mindful of local water drainage laws or restrictions before disposing of large volumes of water.
After draining, check the water level to ensure it’s at the correct height—typically halfway up the skimmer opening and about an inch or two below the top of the tile line. Once the water level is adjusted, rebalance the chemicals to account for any changes in volume or dilution. Regularly monitoring your pool’s water level will help maintain optimal pool function and reduce issues related to high water levels.
Can rain cause the pool water level to become too high?
Yes, heavy and prolonged rainfall is a common cause of elevated pool water levels. Depending on the pool’s location and drainage system, rainwater can accumulate in the pool faster than it can evaporate or be manually removed. This can not only raise the water level beyond the recommended point but also introduce contaminants such as dirt, leaves, and organic matter that affect water balance and clarity.
Excess water from rain may also alter the chemical balance, particularly lowering chlorine levels due to dilution. It’s important to adjust the water level post-rainfall and test the water chemistry before resuming normal use. Implementing effective drainage solutions around the pool area can help minimize the impact of future rain events and keep water levels in check.