If you own an inground swimming pool, you know how important it is to maintain it properly. One of the most critical aspects of maintaining your pool is to drain it regularly. But how do you do that? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to drain an inground swimming pool safely and effectively.
Draining your pool is an essential part of keeping it clean, healthy, and enjoyable to use. It’s a process that needs to be done correctly to prevent any damage to your pool. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can be confident in your ability to keep your pool in top shape.
But that’s not all. We’ll also cover how often you should drain your pool, the essential tools and equipment you need, and the common mistakes to avoid. By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to keep your inground swimming pool in pristine condition.
Are you ready to take your pool maintenance to the next level? Let’s dive in and learn how to drain an inground swimming pool like a pro!
Table of Contents
Step-by-Step Instructions for Draining an Inground Swimming Pool
If you want to drain your inground swimming pool for maintenance or repairs, it’s essential to do it correctly to avoid damaging the pool. Follow these simple steps to drain your inground swimming pool safely:
Step 1: Start by turning off the pool’s pump and filtration system to prevent any damage. This will also help you save on your energy bill while the pool is being drained.
Step 2: Use a pool brush or net to remove any debris or leaves that may have accumulated on the pool’s surface. This will make the draining process faster and easier.
Step 3: Locate the main drain and connect a drainage hose to it. The drainage hose should be long enough to reach the area where you want to dispose of the water.
Step 4: Finally, turn on the main drain and allow the water to flow out through the drainage hose. Make sure to monitor the water level and turn off the main drain when the pool is completely drained.
By following these simple steps, you can safely and effectively drain your inground swimming pool without causing any damage or harm to the pool’s structure or environment. Keep reading to learn more about the essential tools and equipment you’ll need for this process.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Draining an Inground Swimming Pool
Turn off the Power Supply
The first step to draining an inground swimming pool is to turn off the power supply to the pool’s pump and heater. This is an essential safety precaution to prevent any electrical accidents while draining the pool. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the pool’s power supply and turn it off. If you are unsure which breaker to turn off, consult the owner’s manual or a professional electrician.
Once the power supply is turned off, unplug the pump and the heater to prevent any accidental electrical shocks or damage to the equipment. Do not turn on the power supply until you have refilled the pool with water and the pump and heater are fully connected and primed.
It is also a good idea to mark the circuit breaker as “off” or tape it in the off position to prevent anyone from accidentally turning it back on while you are draining the pool.
Remember that water and electricity can be a dangerous combination, so take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and successful pool draining process.
Locate the Drain Valve
The drain valve is typically located near the bottom of the pool, and is usually made of PVC or brass. It may be located on the side of the pool or on the pool floor. Check your pool owner’s manual if you’re unsure where to find it.
Clear the Area around the drain valve so you can easily access it. Remove any debris or objects that may be blocking the valve or preventing it from opening and closing properly.
Attach the Drain Hose to the valve by screwing it on tightly. Make sure the hose is long enough to reach your desired drainage area, such as a street gutter or a sewer drain.
Open the Valve by turning the knob or lever counterclockwise. This will allow the water to begin draining out of the pool and through the hose. Be prepared to monitor the draining process to ensure it is going smoothly and there are no leaks.
Essential Tools and Equipment Needed to Drain an Inground Swimming Pool
Draining an inground swimming pool requires some specific tools and equipment. The following items are essential for a successful draining process:
Pump: You will need a pump that is capable of handling the volume of water in your pool. A sump pump is a popular option that can easily handle the task.
Hose: You’ll need a hose to connect to your pump and carry the water to the desired location for disposal.
Filter: A filter will help remove any debris and impurities from the water before it is pumped out of the pool. This will help prevent clogging of the pump and potential damage.
Make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment before starting the process to avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.
Submersible Pump
A submersible pump is one of the most important tools that you will need when draining an inground swimming pool. This type of pump is designed to be fully submerged in water and is capable of pumping out large volumes of water quickly and efficiently. Look for a pump with a high horsepower rating to ensure that it can handle the amount of water in your pool.
When selecting a submersible pump, pay attention to its flow rate and head pressure. The flow rate will determine how quickly the pump can move water out of the pool, while the head pressure will indicate the maximum height that the pump can lift the water. Make sure that the pump you choose is capable of handling the specific requirements of your pool.
In addition to the submersible pump itself, you will also need a discharge hose to connect the pump to the drainage area. Make sure that the hose is long enough to reach the area where you plan to discharge the water, and that it is made of durable materials that can withstand the pressure of the water being pumped.
- Durable: The backwash hose needs to be strong enough to withstand the force of the water being pumped out of the pool.
- Length: Ensure that the backwash hose is long enough to reach the drainage area or the location where the water will be disposed of.
- Diameter: Choose a hose with an appropriate diameter that can handle the volume of water being drained from the pool.
- Clamps: Use hose clamps to secure the hose to the pump and prevent leaks.
- Cleanliness: Ensure that the hose is clean and free of debris before using it to drain the pool.
Having the right equipment is crucial to the success of draining an inground pool. Next, we will discuss how to safely dispose of the pool water.
How to Safely Dispose of Pool Water When Draining an Inground Pool
Disposing of pool water is not as simple as just dumping it down the drain. Pool water contains chemicals and other pollutants that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. It is important to follow these safety measures to prevent environmental damage and potential fines.
One option is to discharge the pool water into the sanitary sewer system. This may require a permit or approval from the local municipality. Contacting the local municipality is important to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Another option is to discharge the pool water onto the lawn or other areas of the property. It is important to make sure the water is dechlorinated before releasing it onto the lawn. Chlorine can harm plants and grass, so using a dechlorinating product can help prevent damage.
Lastly, consider draining the pool water into a holding tank or pool water truck. This option is especially useful for large commercial pools that need to be drained regularly. A professional pool maintenance company can help facilitate this process.
Remember, proper disposal of pool water is important to protect the environment and avoid potential fines. Be sure to follow local regulations and use safe practices when draining an inground pool.
Check Local Regulations
Before disposing of pool water, it is important to check your local regulations. Some areas have specific laws or guidelines on how to properly dispose of pool water to prevent contamination of local water sources.
Environmental impact: Disposing of pool water in the wrong way can have a negative impact on the environment, especially if the water contains chemicals or is not properly treated.
Reuse options: Depending on the quality of the water, it may be possible to reuse it for other purposes such as watering plants or landscaping.
Professional services: If you are unsure about how to dispose of your pool water properly, consider hiring a professional pool service to handle the task.
Drain the Pool to a Sewer or Septic System
If you live in an area where you can legally drain your pool to a sewer or septic system, this can be the easiest and most convenient option. It’s important to check with your local authorities to make sure that this is allowed and to obtain any necessary permits.
To drain your pool to a sewer or septic system, you will need to use a submersible pump and a backwash hose. Place the submersible pump in the deep end of the pool and connect the backwash hose to the pump’s discharge port. Run the hose to the nearest sewer or septic system access point and turn on the pump to begin draining the water.
It’s important to monitor the progress of the draining process and make sure that the water is flowing properly. Be sure to turn off the pump once the water level reaches the bottom of the skimmer opening to avoid damaging the pump.
After draining the pool, it’s important to clean the pool thoroughly and make any necessary repairs before refilling it with fresh water. Additionally, you should take steps to protect the environment by properly disposing of any chemicals or debris that may have been present in the pool water.
How Often Should You Drain Your Inground Swimming Pool?
Regular Maintenance: It is recommended to drain and refill your inground swimming pool every 3-5 years to keep the water clean and fresh. However, this timeline may vary based on various factors like pool size, usage, water chemistry, and maintenance practices.
Water Chemistry: If the pool water chemistry is not well-balanced, it can cause damage to the pool surfaces, equipment, and even affect the health of the swimmers. If you notice high levels of calcium, cyanuric acid, or total dissolved solids (TDS) in your pool water, it may be time for a drain and refill.
Winterization: In colder regions, homeowners tend to winterize their inground swimming pools to protect them from freeze damage during the off-season. If you winterize your pool, you can consider draining and refilling it when you open it up for the swimming season to ensure fresh and clean water.
Professional Advice: It is always best to seek advice from a pool professional to determine the right time to drain and refill your inground swimming pool. They can assess your pool’s unique needs and recommend a suitable maintenance schedule.
Every 5 Years
Regular Maintenance is key to preserving the longevity of your inground swimming pool. However, it is inevitable that your pool will require draining and cleaning at some point.
The general rule of thumb is to drain your inground swimming pool every 5 years. However, this can vary depending on factors such as usage, weather conditions, and water chemistry.
Regularly monitoring the water chemistry and keeping the pool clean can help to extend the time between drainings. It is also important to inspect the pool’s structure and equipment regularly to identify any issues that may require draining.
Be aware of local regulations regarding draining and disposing of pool water. Some areas have specific requirements or restrictions, so be sure to check with your local government before draining your pool.
When Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) Levels are High
If you regularly test your pool water, you should know the TDS level of your pool. TDS refers to all the particles in your pool water that are not water molecules, including minerals, chemicals, and debris. Over time, TDS can build up and cause problems with your pool’s water chemistry.
When TDS levels become too high, you may notice that your pool water looks cloudy or discolored, or that it has an unpleasant taste or odor. This can also make it difficult to maintain the proper chemical balance in your pool, and can even damage your pool equipment.
If your TDS levels are too high, it may be time to drain and refill your pool. The exact frequency of this will depend on a variety of factors, including your pool size, usage, and chemical balance. As a general rule of thumb, most pool owners will need to drain and refill their pool every 3-5 years to keep TDS levels in check.
Keep in mind that this is just a general guideline, and you may need to drain your pool more frequently if you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms or if instructed by a professional pool technician. Regular pool maintenance and water testing can help you stay on top of your TDS levels and prevent costly damage to your pool and equipment.
When Calcium Hardness Levels are High
Calcium hardness is an important factor to consider when maintaining the balance of your pool water. If the calcium hardness levels in your pool become too high, it can lead to cloudy water and scaling on pool surfaces. To lower the calcium hardness levels in your pool, you may need to partially drain and refill your pool with fresh water.
Before draining your pool, it is important to test the calcium hardness levels and determine the appropriate amount of water to drain. You should also take steps to protect the environment by ensuring that the pool water does not enter storm drains or other waterways.
After refilling your pool, it is important to retest the water and adjust the calcium hardness levels as needed. You may need to add calcium hardness increaser if the levels are too low, or use a sequestering agent to prevent scaling if the levels are too high.
Benefits of Properly Draining Your Inground Swimming Pool
Regularly draining your inground swimming pool can have a number of benefits for both the pool and the people using it. Maintaining water quality is one of the most important benefits, as draining and refilling the pool can help reset the chemical balance and keep the water clean and safe to swim in.
Another benefit of draining your pool is that it can help prevent calcium buildup, which can lead to scaling on the pool walls and equipment. Draining the pool can also help prevent algae growth, which can be a common problem in warm climates.
Draining your pool can also be an opportunity to inspect and repair any issues with the pool or its equipment. Identifying and addressing issues early on can help prevent more serious problems down the line and extend the life of your pool.
Finally, draining your pool can also help you save money in the long run. By regularly draining and refilling the pool, you can avoid the need for more expensive repairs and equipment replacements that can result from neglecting proper pool maintenance.
Prevents Damage to the Pool
Regular pool draining can help prevent damage to your inground swimming pool. If the water is left untreated for too long, the chemicals in the water can corrode the surface of the pool, causing cracks and leaks. Draining the pool every few years helps to prevent this damage and extends the life of your pool.
Draining your pool can also prevent damage from freezing. In colder climates, if water is left in the pool over the winter, it can freeze and expand, causing cracks and other damage to the pool’s structure. By draining the pool before winter, you can prevent this type of damage from occurring.
Draining and cleaning your pool can also prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and algae. Regular pool maintenance can help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and algae, but over time, these can accumulate and become difficult to remove. Draining the pool and giving it a thorough cleaning can help prevent the buildup of harmful contaminants and keep your pool clean and safe for swimming.
Ensures Balanced Water Chemistry
Proper draining of your inground swimming pool is important to maintain balanced water chemistry. Over time, the water chemistry in your pool can become unbalanced due to various factors, such as the accumulation of dissolved minerals or organic matter. When this happens, the water can become corrosive and damage the pool’s surface, plumbing, and equipment.
Draining your pool allows you to start with fresh water, which is easier to balance and maintain. When refilling the pool, you can adjust the pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels to their optimal ranges. This will prevent damage to the pool and extend its lifespan.
In addition, proper drainage can help you avoid problems with algae and bacteria growth. Over time, the accumulation of these microorganisms can create a biofilm that is resistant to chlorine and other sanitizers. Draining the pool removes this biofilm, making it easier to maintain a clean and healthy swimming environment.
Saves Money in the Long Run
Regularly draining your inground pool can actually save you money in the long run. When water is left untreated for long periods of time, it can become contaminated with bacteria and algae. This can result in costly repairs and maintenance. By properly draining and refilling your pool, you can prevent these issues from occurring and save money on repairs and maintenance in the future.
Additionally, by maintaining the proper balance of chemicals and minerals in your pool water, you can prevent damage to your pool equipment. This includes your pool’s filter, heater, and pump. By avoiding damage to these components, you can save money on costly replacements and repairs.
Another way draining your pool can save you money is by reducing the amount of chemicals and cleaning products you need to use. Over time, pool water can become saturated with minerals and chemicals, requiring more chemicals to balance the water chemistry. By regularly draining and refilling your pool, you can avoid this buildup and reduce the amount of chemicals needed to maintain proper water balance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Draining an Inground Swimming Pool
Draining the pool completely: Draining the pool completely can cause the structure to shift, which can lead to serious damage. Leave some water in the pool to prevent this from happening.
Draining the pool without checking the local regulations: Depending on where you live, there may be regulations in place regarding pool drainage. Always check with your local authorities before draining your pool.
Discharging the water improperly: Discharging the pool water improperly can result in environmental damage. Make sure you know where the water is going and that it’s being discharged in a safe and legal way.
Not testing the water before refilling: Filling your pool with fresh water without testing it first can lead to an imbalance in your pool’s chemistry. Make sure to test the water and adjust the chemicals as needed before refilling.
Draining the pool without professional help: Draining a pool is a complicated process and should be done by a professional. Attempting to do it yourself can result in serious damage to your pool or even injury to yourself.
Draining the Pool Completely
One common mistake when draining an inground pool is to completely empty it. Doing this can cause the pool to pop out of the ground or damage the structure.
Another problem with completely draining the pool is that it can cause damage to the pool’s interior surface. The sun and air can cause the surface to dry out and crack.
To avoid these issues, it’s recommended to only drain the pool partially, leaving enough water to provide weight and support to the pool structure.
If you must completely drain the pool, it’s important to hire a professional pool service technician who has experience in draining and refilling pools.
By avoiding this mistake, you can ensure the longevity and durability of your inground pool and avoid costly repairs in the future.
Not Testing the Water Before Refilling the Pool
Test the water: Before refilling the pool, it’s important to test the water chemistry to ensure it is balanced. This includes pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness levels.
Adjust chemicals: If any levels are off, adjust the chemicals accordingly to prevent damage to the pool and ensure safe swimming conditions.
Use a quality hose: Make sure to use a high-quality hose that is safe for drinking water to fill the pool. A cheap hose may contain chemicals that can affect water chemistry.
Refill slowly: Refill the pool slowly to prevent damage to the pool and ensure proper mixing of chemicals.
Retest the water: After the pool is filled, retest the water and make any necessary adjustments to maintain proper water chemistry.
Disposing of Pool Water Improperly
Environmental Impact: One of the biggest mistakes pool owners make is disposing of pool water improperly. Chlorinated water can be harmful to plants and aquatic life, and can contaminate water sources. Always check local regulations and guidelines before disposing of pool water.
Damaging Your Property: Draining the water too close to the pool can damage your landscaping and foundation. The water can seep into the soil and cause erosion or even damage your home’s foundation. Always make sure to direct the water away from your property.
Legal Consequences: Improperly disposing of pool water can result in legal consequences and fines. In some areas, you may need a permit to dispose of the water, and there may be restrictions on where and how you can dispose of it.
Danger to Children and Pets: Pool water can be a danger to children and pets. If the water is not properly disposed of, it can attract animals and insects that carry diseases. Always make sure to keep children and pets away from the drained pool area until it has been properly cleaned and refilled.
Damaging the Sewer System: Disposing of pool water in the sewer system can also cause problems. The high level of chlorine can damage the pipes and treatment plants, leading to expensive repairs. Always check with your local government to see if you can dispose of pool water in the sewer system, and if so, what steps you need to take to do so safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What steps should I take before draining my inground swimming pool?
Before draining your inground swimming pool, it is essential to turn off the pool’s pump, filter, and heater to avoid damage. Additionally, ensure that the drain is located downhill of the pool to enable water to flow freely. You should also obtain any necessary permits or permissions from your local authorities and plan for proper water disposal.
How do I drain my inground swimming pool?
To drain an inground swimming pool, locate the drain valve or plug, and connect a drainage hose. Open the valve or remove the plug to allow the water to drain out. Ensure the drainage hose is long enough to reach the desired drainage point and position it appropriately. Remember to monitor the draining process regularly and turn off the pump when the water level reaches about 6 inches.
Can I completely drain my inground swimming pool?
No, you should never completely drain an inground swimming pool as it can cause structural damage. Instead, drain the water to a level just below the skimmer, which is typically about one-third to halfway down the pool. Avoid leaving the pool empty for an extended period and refill it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the pool’s surface.
How often should I drain my inground swimming pool?
The frequency of draining your inground swimming pool depends on factors such as the pool’s size, the number of swimmers, and the water’s chemical balance. On average, you should drain your pool every three to five years. However, if you notice water chemistry issues, such as high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS), you may need to drain and refill the pool more frequently.
What should I do after draining my inground swimming pool?
After draining your inground swimming pool, clean the pool’s walls, floor, and any debris accumulated during the process. Test the water chemistry levels and add necessary chemicals to balance the water before refilling the pool. You should also inspect the pool’s equipment, such as the pump and filter, for any damages or wear and tear that may require repair or replacement.
What are the risks of improperly draining an inground swimming pool?
Improperly draining an inground swimming pool can lead to several risks, such as structural damage to the pool, shifting or cracking of the pool walls, and costly repairs. Additionally, disposing of the pool water improperly can harm the environment and incur hefty fines or penalties from your local authorities. It is crucial to follow proper draining and water disposal procedures to avoid these risks.