How to Drain a Backyard Pool: Safe & Easy Steps
16.03.2024 ... The Pool Care Cheat Sheet (Free): https://swimu.com/cheatsheet The Pool Care Handbook: https://swimu.com/book The Pool Care Video Course: ......
Draining a backyard pool is a necessary maintenance task, whether you are preparing for the off-season, conducting a deep clean, or replacing the water. While it might seem as simple as letting the water run out, there are critical safety, legal, and environmental considerations to address. A poorly executed drain can damage your pool’s structure, violate local ordinances, or create a safety hazard for children and pets. This guide walks you through the correct methods, equipment, and precautions to ensure the process is efficient, safe, and responsible.
Understanding Your Pool Drain System
Before you begin, it is essential to understand how your specific pool is designed to drain. Most modern inground pools are equipped with a main drain at the bottom and a secondary system of wall returns. Above-ground pools typically rely on a siphon effect using the skimmer weir. Knowing the location and function of these components helps you determine the most efficient drainage method and prevents issues like pump cavitation or uneven settling of the pool shell.
Preparing for the Drain
Preparation is the key to a smooth process. You should never simply turn the pump to the "waste" position without a plan. First, test the water to ensure proper chemical balance, especially if the water will be sent to a municipal storm drain. Locate your circuit breaker and turn off the power to the pump and filter system. Finally, identify the drainage point; this should be a location where the water can be discharged without causing erosion, flooding, or violating local regulations regarding stormwater runoff.
Equipment You Will Need
- Submersible pump or vacuum head with hose
- Backwash hose (for sand or DE filters)
- Garden hose for priming
- Level surface for equipment placement
The Municipal Water Safety Method
The safest and most controlled way to lower the water is to use your pool's main drain skimmer. Attach one end of a backwash hose to the skimmer port and the other to a discharge point, such as a street drain or a lower area of landscaping. As the water flows, the hose creates a siphon effect. You can assist this by priming the hose with water or using a submersible pump to start the flow. This method keeps the weight of the pool walls supported by water until the very end, minimizing structural stress.
Using a Submersible Pump for Large Volumes
For above-ground pools or situations where a siphon is difficult to establish, a submersible pump is the most efficient tool. Place the pump at the deepest part of the pool floor and route the discharge hose to a safe location. Ensure the hose is tightly connected to prevent leaks and that the water is directed away from the pool's foundation. Monitor the pump regularly to ensure it does not run dry, as this can cause the motor to overheat and burn out.
Critical Safety and Legal Considerations
Draining a pool is heavily regulated in many municipalities due to environmental concerns. Dumping chlorinated water into the street can result in significant fines, as it contaminates local waterways and treatment facilities. Always check with your local water authority for specific rules; you may be required to dechlorinate the water with a neutralizing agent before it can be released. Additionally, never drain a pool during heavy rain or if the groundwater is high, as the empty pool can float out of the ground, causing catastrophic damage.
Post-Drain Maintenance
Once the water level is at the bottom, turn off the pump and disconnect all hoses. Inspect the pool for any debris that has settled in the floor and brush the walls to remove algae buildup. If you are closing the pool for the season, ensure the cover is dry before installation to prevent mold growth. If you plan to refill the pool, check the drain plug is securely in place and the equipment is ready for startup to avoid dry firing the pump.
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