Has your once sparkling pool become a murky swamp, a breeding ground for algae, or simply a victim of too much chlorine and not enough care? While regular maintenance can often keep your pool crystal clear, sometimes a complete drain and refill is the only way to truly reset and restore its health. Whether you're dealing with severe water chemistry imbalances, preparing for extensive repairs, or facing the dreaded "black algae" invasion, knowing how to safely and effectively drain your pool is a crucial skill for any pool owner.
Draining your pool isn't just about pulling the plug; it involves understanding the potential risks to your pool's structure and the surrounding environment. Doing it incorrectly can lead to a popped pool liner, structural damage from hydrostatic pressure, or even harm to local water systems. Therefore, taking the time to learn the correct methods and precautions is essential to ensure the job is done safely, efficiently, and without costly consequences.
What are the most frequently asked questions about draining a pool?
What's the best way to drain my pool - submersible pump or gravity?
The "best" way to drain your pool – using a submersible pump or gravity – depends heavily on your specific circumstances. Gravity draining is simpler, requiring only a hose and a lower elevation to drain *to*. However, a submersible pump is generally faster, more reliable (especially if you have limited elevation change), and can drain the pool almost completely, which gravity often cannot.
Expanding on that, consider the following factors. Gravity draining relies on siphoning, where you fill a hose completely with water, place one end in the pool, and the other end at a point lower than the pool's bottom. If the discharge point isn't significantly lower, the flow will be slow or may not work at all. Furthermore, as the water level drops, gravity draining becomes less and less effective, often leaving several inches (or more) of water at the bottom. This residual water can be problematic if you're trying to remove debris or prep the pool for winterization in colder climates. A submersible pump, on the other hand, is specifically designed for this task. You simply place the pump in the pool, attach a garden hose or discharge hose, plug it in, and it starts pumping water out. High-quality submersible pumps can move a significant volume of water quickly and can often pump the pool almost completely dry. While they require electricity and an initial investment in the pump itself, they offer greater control and efficiency. Think about how often you plan on draining the pool and how quickly you want it done when making your choice. If draining is a very rare event and you have a perfect gravity situation, then gravity may work, but pumps are far more versatile.How do I prevent my pool from popping out of the ground when draining?
The key to preventing a pool from popping out of the ground during draining is to relieve hydrostatic pressure, the force exerted by groundwater pushing upwards against the pool shell. This is achieved by either having a hydrostatic relief valve (which should be checked before draining) or by pumping groundwater from around the pool while it's being emptied. Ignoring this pressure can lead to costly and potentially irreparable damage.
Draining a pool without accounting for hydrostatic pressure is risky, especially in areas with high water tables or after heavy rainfall. If the water table is higher than the bottom of your pool, the upward pressure can be immense. This pressure can cause the pool shell to crack, buckle, or even lift entirely out of the ground, resulting in significant structural damage. The type of pool construction (fiberglass, vinyl liner, or concrete) influences the severity of the potential damage, but all pools are susceptible to this issue. To properly prepare your pool for draining, locate and inspect your hydrostatic relief valve, usually found at the deep end of the pool. Ensure it's free from debris and functioning correctly. If you don't have a hydrostatic relief valve, consider hiring a professional pool service to pump groundwater from around the pool during the draining process. This involves inserting well points into the ground around the pool and continuously pumping water to equalize the pressure. This method is the safer approach if the water table is not known with certainty.What's the proper way to dispose of the drained pool water?
The proper way to dispose of drained pool water is generally to discharge it into the sanitary sewer system (through a sewer cleanout), if permitted by your local municipality, or to slowly drain it onto your property away from structures and sensitive areas, ensuring it doesn't negatively impact neighboring properties or local waterways. Dechlorinating the water before disposal is crucial to protect the environment.
Discharging pool water directly into storm drains or natural bodies of water (lakes, streams, rivers) is almost always prohibited, as the water typically contains chemicals like chlorine, algaecides, and cyanuric acid (stabilizer) that can harm aquatic life and disrupt the ecological balance. Before draining, you *must* dechlorinate the water. This can be achieved by allowing the water to sit for several days or by using a dechlorinating chemical like sodium thiosulfate, following the product's instructions carefully to ensure the correct dosage. Test the water with a chlorine test kit to confirm that the chlorine level is at 0 ppm before proceeding. If draining onto your property, choose a location that is well-drained and away from your house foundation, septic systems, wells, and neighboring properties. A slow, steady draining process is essential to prevent erosion and flooding. Consider using a sump pump with a long hose to direct the water to the chosen area. Check with your local municipality regarding any specific regulations or permits required for draining a pool. Some areas may have restrictions on the volume of water that can be discharged at one time or may require a permit even for draining onto your own property. Ignoring these regulations can result in fines.Should I drain my pool completely, or just partially?
Whether you should completely or partially drain your pool depends entirely on the reason for draining it. A partial drain (typically lowering the water level below the skimmer or return jets) is sufficient for winterizing, minor repairs, or chemical imbalances. A complete drain is usually only necessary for significant structural repairs, severe algae infestations that cannot be resolved with chemical treatments, or if the pool has been left unattended and the water has become severely contaminated.
Deciding on a complete drain should not be taken lightly. Completely emptying a pool can be risky. In-ground pools are held in place by the weight of the water inside, counteracting the surrounding earth. Draining an in-ground pool completely, particularly in areas with high water tables or expansive soils, can cause the pool to "float" or shift, leading to structural damage like cracks and bulges. Vinyl liner pools are especially vulnerable, as the liner can shrink, detach, and require replacement. Concrete pools can crack or buckle if not properly drained and allowed to dry uniformly. Partial draining, on the other hand, mitigates these risks. Lowering the water level for specific maintenance tasks or winterization minimizes the pressure imbalance, preventing potential structural issues. Before any draining, regardless of depth, always consult with a pool professional, especially if you suspect soil issues or are unsure of the best course of action. They can assess your specific situation and advise on the safest and most effective approach.How long does it typically take to drain a pool?
Draining a pool typically takes between 8 and 24 hours, but this is a broad estimate. The actual time depends on several factors including the pool's size (volume in gallons), the power of the pump being used, the diameter of the hose, and the drainage location. A smaller above-ground pool will obviously drain much faster than a large in-ground pool.
The size of your pool is the most significant factor. A larger pool simply holds more water, requiring more time to empty. The pump's horsepower (HP) and flow rate (gallons per minute or GPM) also play crucial roles. A more powerful pump and a wider diameter hose will expel water faster, shortening the draining time. Gravity also comes into play if you're draining to a lower elevation; otherwise, you're relying entirely on the pump. Also, consider potential restrictions in the hose (kinks, partial blockages) that can significantly slow the process. Be patient and monitor the process. It is best to avoid draining your pool completely in extreme weather conditions (very hot and dry or during heavy rain), as this can put stress on the pool's structure. If you have a vinyl liner pool, leaving a few inches of water inside will help protect it from shrinking or cracking. Also remember to check with your local regulations about draining your pool water to avoid any environmental issues.Can I drain my pool if I have a well system?
Draining your pool when you have a well system requires careful consideration due to the potential for over-burdening your well and affecting your water supply. While it's not strictly forbidden, it's crucial to manage the process slowly and responsibly to minimize the impact on your well and the surrounding environment.
The primary concern is that draining a large volume of water at once can significantly lower the water table in your immediate area, potentially causing your well to run dry or draw in sediment. This is especially true if your well is already operating close to its capacity or if your aquifer recharges slowly. Additionally, the sudden influx of chlorinated or chemically treated pool water into the ground can contaminate the groundwater and affect nearby wells, although the chlorine dissipates quickly. To mitigate these risks, drain your pool slowly using a low-volume pump or siphon. Monitor your well's performance closely during the draining process, and stop if you notice any significant drop in water pressure or changes in water quality. Consider directing the drained water to a sanitary sewer system if permitted by your local regulations, as this will prevent any potential groundwater contamination. Before draining, it is highly recommended to contact your local health department or well specialist to discuss best practices for your specific situation.How do I protect my pool liner during the draining process?
Protecting your pool liner while draining is crucial to prevent damage like shrinking, cracking, or detachment. The primary defense is to avoid completely emptying the pool and to monitor the liner closely during the entire process. Always leave some water in the pool, especially in warmer weather.
The biggest risk to a vinyl liner during draining is prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and air. Vinyl liners are manufactured to be submerged, and when exposed, they can become brittle and lose their elasticity, leading to cracking or tearing. To minimize this risk, choose a cool, overcast day to drain your pool, if possible. If sunshine is unavoidable, try to provide temporary shade over the exposed liner sections with tarps or other coverings. The timing matters, avoid draining during the hottest part of the day. Furthermore, be extremely cautious when using a submersible pump. Keep the discharge hose away from the liner to prevent concentrated water flow from eroding the material around the pump area. Regularly check the liner as the water level drops, paying close attention to corners, steps, and areas around fittings, as these are often the first places to show signs of stress. Leaving 6-12 inches of water in the pool should generally keep the liner seated and avoid significant shrinkage, but always consult your pool manufacturer's guidelines for specific recommendations for your liner type.And that's all there is to it! Draining your pool might seem like a chore, but with these steps, you'll be splashing around in fresh, clean water in no time. Thanks for reading, and we hope you found this guide helpful. Come back and visit us again soon for more tips and tricks on keeping your pool sparkling!