Welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to drain an inground pool without a main drain. Draining your pool is an essential part of maintenance, but it can be a daunting task if you’re not sure how to do it. Many pool owners think that having a main drain is necessary to drain their pool, but that’s not always the case.
If you don’t have a main drain, don’t worry, there are several ways to drain your pool safely and efficiently. In this guide, we’ll cover the most effective methods to help you get the job done right.
Whether you want to clean your pool, make repairs, or prepare it for winter, draining your pool can be a complicated process. But, with our easy-to-follow steps and expert tips, you can do it like a pro. Keep reading to learn more!
Table of Contents
Use a Submersible Pump
If you want to drain your inground pool without a main drain, one of the easiest ways to do it is by using a submersible pump. These pumps are designed to be fully submerged in water and are excellent for removing large volumes of water quickly. Here’s how to use a submersible pump to drain your pool:
Step 1: Start by renting or purchasing a submersible pump. Make sure that it’s powerful enough to handle the size of your pool.
Step 2: Lower the pump into the pool, making sure that it’s fully submerged. Connect the pump to a drainage hose and ensure that the other end of the hose is placed in a safe area where the water can flow out.
Step 3: Turn on the pump and let it do its job. You should see the water level dropping quickly. Keep an eye on the progress, and if necessary, adjust the position of the pump to remove any remaining water.
Step 4: Once the water level has dropped to the desired level, turn off the pump and remove it from the pool. Don’t forget to disconnect the drainage hose and remove it from the area.
Using a submersible pump is a quick and effective way to drain your inground pool. With the right equipment and a little bit of know-how, you can get the job done in no time. But what if you don’t want to use a pump? Keep reading to discover other methods for draining your pool.
Choose the Right Size Pump
Determine the pool volume: To choose the right size submersible pump, you need to know the volume of your pool. Calculate the volume by measuring the length, width, and average depth of the pool, and then use an online pool volume calculator.
Check the pump specifications: Once you have the pool volume, check the pump specifications to ensure that the pump can handle the volume. The pump’s flow rate, expressed in gallons per minute (GPM), should be equal to or greater than the pool volume in gallons divided by 120.
Consider the vertical lift: The vertical lift refers to the distance between the water level in the pool and the place where you will be discharging the water. If you have a large vertical lift, you may need a more powerful pump to overcome the resistance.
Factor in the hose length: If you plan to use a hose to discharge the water, factor in the length of the hose when choosing the pump. A longer hose will increase the resistance and reduce the flow rate.
Choosing the right size submersible pump is crucial for a successful pool draining process. Take the time to calculate the pool volume, check the pump specifications, and consider the lift and hose length to ensure that you choose the right pump for the job.
Rent a Trash Pump
If you don’t have a submersible pump or don’t want to buy one, you can always rent a trash pump. These pumps are designed for moving water that has debris in it, making them a great option for draining an inground pool without a main drain.
When renting a trash pump, make sure to choose the appropriate size for your pool. Generally, you want to choose a pump with a higher flow rate than your pool’s capacity to ensure it drains efficiently. You can also rent additional hoses if needed to reach the desired drainage location.
Before using a rented trash pump, make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow all safety precautions. Always wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles when handling the pump and avoid letting the pump run dry to prevent damage.
Make Sure the Pump is Suitable for Pool Draining
When renting a trash pump, make sure it is suitable for draining a pool. Not all pumps are created equal, and some are better suited for draining large bodies of water than others. Look for a pump that has a high flow rate and can handle debris up to a certain size.
Check the specifications of the pump before renting it, and make sure it can handle the volume of water in your pool. You don’t want to rent a pump that’s too small and end up spending days trying to drain the pool.
Consider renting the pump from a pool supply store or a company that specializes in pool maintenance. They may be able to offer advice on which pump to rent and may even offer delivery and installation services.
Use a Pool Backwash Hose
Step 1: Turn off the pool pump and filter system. This will prevent water from flowing back into the pool during the draining process.
Step 2: Connect the backwash hose to the pool filter’s waste port. Make sure it is securely attached and not leaking.
Step 3: Place the other end of the backwash hose in the desired location for water drainage. This could be a sewer drain or an area with good drainage away from the pool.
Step 4: Turn on the pool pump and set it to the backwash setting. This will allow the water to flow out of the pool and through the backwash hose.
Step 5: Keep an eye on the water level and move the hose if necessary to ensure all the water is draining properly. Once the pool is empty, turn off the pump and remove the backwash hose.
Attach the Hose to the Backwash Port
Step 1: Turn off the pool pump and allow it to cool down for at least 5 minutes.
Step 2: Locate the backwash port, which is typically located near the filter system.
Step 3: Attach one end of the pool backwash hose to the backwash port.
Step 4: Run the other end of the hose to the drainage area, making sure it’s long enough to reach the entire pool.
Step 5: Turn the pool pump on and set it to the “backwash” setting to start draining the pool water.
Place the Other End of the Hose in the Sewer Drain
Step 1: Locate the sewer drain where you want to discharge the pool water. If you’re not sure, contact your local authorities to find out the regulations for discharging pool water into the sewer.
Step 2: Place the end of the hose into the sewer drain. Make sure the hose is secure and won’t come out during the draining process.
Step 3: Turn on the pump to start draining the pool water through the backwash hose and into the sewer drain.
Step 4: Keep an eye on the hose to make sure it doesn’t become disconnected or kinked during the draining process. If the hose becomes clogged, turn off the pump and clear the blockage before continuing.
Prime the Hose for Optimal Performance
Before turning on the pump, you need to prime the hose to make sure there is no air trapped inside. Air can cause the pump to lose its prime and result in poor performance.
To prime the hose, you should fill it with water completely. This can be done by placing one end of the hose in the pool and the other end in the sewer drain. Turn on the pool pump and let it run for a minute or two. This will fill the hose with water, and once you turn on the pump, it should start draining the pool immediately.
If you notice that the pump is struggling to drain the pool, you may need to prime the hose again to remove any remaining air pockets. Simply turn off the pump and repeat the priming process until the pump is running smoothly.
Remember, if you don’t prime the hose properly, you could damage the pump or the motor. So take the time to do it right to ensure optimal performance and protect your equipment.
Drain the Pool Using the Multiport Valve
If you need to drain your pool, using the multiport valve is an effective method that can save you time and effort. Here are some steps to follow:
Step 1: Turn off the Pool Pump
Before you start, make sure to turn off the pool pump to prevent any accidents or damage to the system.
Step 2: Set the Multiport Valve to “Waste”
Next, set the multiport valve to “Waste” so that the water will bypass the filter and go directly to the drain. Make sure that the backwash hose is properly attached to the waste port and positioned to where you want the water to go.
Step 3: Turn on the Pump
Once everything is set up, turn on the pool pump to start draining the water. Keep an eye on the water level and adjust the hose as needed.
Step 4: Monitor the Process
Depending on the size of your pool, draining it can take several hours. Be patient and monitor the process regularly to avoid any issues such as overflow or damage to the pump.
Step 5: Turn Off the Pump and Reset the Multiport Valve
Once the pool is drained, turn off the pump and reset the multiport valve to its original position. Remove the backwash hose and store it properly.
Turn Off the Power to the Pool Pump
Before you start working on the multiport valve, make sure to turn off the power to the pool pump. This is crucial for your safety and the safety of the equipment.
If your pump has a circuit breaker, you can simply turn it off. If not, you can turn off the power at the main electrical panel.
Remember, water and electricity don’t mix, so it’s essential to take this step before proceeding with any pool maintenance task.
Once you’ve turned off the power, you can proceed to the next step of draining the pool using the multiport valve.
Set the Multiport Valve to “Waste”
Once the power to the pool pump is off, locate the multiport valve, which is usually located near the pool pump. The valve will have several settings such as “Filter,” “Backwash,” “Rinse,” “Recirculate,” and “Waste.”
Turn the handle of the multiport valve to the “Waste” setting. This will allow the pool water to bypass the filter and flow out through the waste line.
It’s important to note that when the multiport valve is set to “Waste,” the water will not be filtered. As a result, this setting should only be used for pool draining purposes and not for regular pool maintenance.
Siphon the Pool Water Out
Step 1: Place one end of the pool hose in the pool and the other end outside the pool area.
Step 2: Connect the hose to the pool pump by inserting it into the pump’s skimmer basket.
Step 3: Create a vacuum in the hose by submerging it in the water until it is full.
Step 4: Disconnect the hose from the pump and allow it to drain.
Step 5: Once the water has started flowing, carefully move the hose to the lowest point in the pool and the water will begin to siphon out.
Note: Be sure to monitor the water level and turn off the siphon as needed to avoid draining the pool too low.
Fill the Hose with Water Before Siphoning
Before you start siphoning the pool water out, it’s important to fill the hose with water first. This will help to create the siphoning effect and ensure that the water flows out smoothly. To fill the hose, place one end of the hose in the pool and the other end outside the pool area.
Next, turn on the pool pump and let it run for a few minutes. This will help to fill the hose with water and remove any air bubbles that may be inside. Once the hose is filled with water, turn off the pool pump.
If you’re using a siphon pump, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to fill the hose with water.
Make sure that the end of the hose that is outside the pool area is lower than the end that is in the pool. This will help the water to flow out smoothly and prevent any air from getting into the hose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do I need to drain an inground pool without a main drain?
Draining an inground pool without a main drain requires a few pieces of equipment, including a submersible pump, a pool backwash hose, and a sewer drain or an area where you can safely discharge the water.
How long does it take to drain an inground pool without a main drain?
The time it takes to drain an inground pool without a main drain depends on the size of your pool, the power of your pump, and the amount of water that needs to be removed. On average, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day to completely drain a pool.
Is it safe to drain an inground pool without a main drain?
It can be safe to drain an inground pool without a main drain if you take the proper precautions, such as ensuring that the area where you discharge the water is safe and free from any hazards. However, it is always best to consult with a professional or follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure the safety of yourself and your pool.
Can I reuse the water that I drain from my inground pool?
In most cases, the water that you drain from your inground pool cannot be reused, as it may contain chemicals and contaminants that can be harmful to plants and animals. It is best to discharge the water in a safe and responsible manner, such as into a sewer drain or a designated drainage area.
What should I do after draining my inground pool without a main drain?
After draining your inground pool without a main drain, it is important to clean and inspect the pool for any damage or wear and tear. You may also need to refill the pool and balance the water chemistry before using it again.