Why does the basin that holds the water for my pump loose water?
the basin the holds water where the pump sits loses water about 2 inches an hour. There is no apparent leak in the hose and the pump works. It starts to fill from the pool when you first start it then after time pools on the rocks and doesn’t drain back into the basin. Any ideas why?
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Hello, check the waterfall sections for leaks and splashing, you may be losing water to either or both of these reasons
Your first photo shows your liner ends short of the supply pool. The bottom of your channel liner should overhang the edge of that pool. The photo shows the water falling into the hole around the supply basin.
Also, while your crushed rock looks good with the edging rock, it has sharp edges. Over time the rock is likely to push through the liner. Underlayment is recommended for below the liner to prevent rocky soil or roots from tearing the liner. In this case it should be used over the liner also. You would then lay the crushed rocks over that underlayment so it is hidden. While the underlayment will absorb a lot of water, you won't lose any to a leak. Here is a photo of underlayment used on top of a liner to protect the liner from large rocks. http://kentfish.com.au/water-filtration/AquaScape-pond-liner.jpg
You've got seepage somewhere. I've had this and it's no fun to find. Short of ripping the whole waterfall out and starting over, you need to check your liner for the problem. Start with the whole thing dry. Work from the lowest point backward. Section by section, pull out the lowest pebbles/rocks until you can see the liner -- then use your hose to dribble water. A small rip or crack may be obvious or become obvious. There are a number of patch kits out there if you find a rip or tear. And Mindshift has it right - the entire path of water travel should have a liner under it - even if it's just a hose.
If you find that something has shifted and water is leaking around rocks (which can happen) there are waterproof expanding sprays (like what you use to stop drafts around windows and stuff) that are made specifically for ponds and water gardens. It won't stick to anything wet, but it will fill the holes between rocks if your water is splashing up and out that way.
You've got a beautiful set up, there. The work will be worth it. Enjoy!
What about simplifying things for yourself? You could shorten the entire run to just the basin and 1 water drop. Remove the other areas from the pump system leaving you with at least a section of working waterfall/pump back. This way, you still enjoy the installation without having to do backbreaking work of hunting down the leak(s), etc.