Are you looking to lower your pool water level? Whether it’s for maintenance, repairs, or simply to adjust the water level, there are a few easy and effective methods you can try.
One of the easiest ways to reduce the water level in your pool is by using a submersible pump. This method involves placing the pump in the water and allowing it to remove excess water until you reach the desired level.
If you’re looking for a more cost-effective solution, you can also use a siphon hose to lower your pool water level. By connecting one end of the hose to the pool, and the other end to a drain or lower area outside of the pool, you can create a suction that will pull the water out of the pool.
But before you start lowering your pool water level, it’s important to know how much water needs to be removed. You don’t want to overdo it and cause damage to your pool’s equipment or structure.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the details of these easy and effective methods for lowering your pool water level, as well as provide tips on how to determine the proper amount of water to remove without damaging your pool. So if you’re ready to get started, keep reading!
Table of Contents
Method 1: Using a submersible pump
If you want to lower the water level in your pool, using a submersible pump can be an effective way. Below is a guide on how to use this method.
What is a submersible pump?
A submersible pump is a type of pump that sits underwater and is designed for removing water from areas where it’s not wanted. They are commonly used to drain pools, flooded basements, or other places where standing water needs to be removed.
How to use a submersible pump to lower the pool water level?
- The first step is to turn off all electricity connected to the pool.
- Locate the main drain at the bottom of the pool and remove the cover.
- Place the submersible pump in the center of the drained area and ensure it’s completely submerged.
- Attach a drainage hose to the pump outlet. Make sure the hose doesn’t have any kinks or blockages to avoid potential hazards.
- Turn on the submersible pump and let it run until the desired water level is reached.
- Turn off the power to the pump and disconnect it from the electrical source when finished. Drain the hose and store the pump in a safe place.
Submersible pumps are reliable tools for quickly draining water out.” -Popular Mechanics
Keep in mind that if the submersible pump gets clogged with debris, it can significantly reduce its efficiency. Clean it regularly to prevent buildup and maintain optimal performance.
If there is no main drain, consider another spot near the edge of the pool to position the submersible pump. It’s essential to ensure that it remains fully submerged while pumping out water. Ensure the power cord is far enough away from the pool’s edge to avoid short circuits.
Using a submersible pump can be an excellent way to lower your pool’s water level quickly. Remember to follow all safety precautions and read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before use.
Method 2: Siphoning the water out
If you are looking to lower the water level in your pool quickly and efficiently, siphoning could be a viable option. But what exactly is siphoning? How do you siphon the water out of a pool? And when is it not a good idea?
What is siphoning?
Siphoning involves using atmospheric pressure to move water from one container to another through a tube or hose. In this case, we will use it to remove excess water from the pool.
The key to siphoning is gravity – effectively lowering one end of the hose below the surface of the pool water to initiate the flow of water towards the other, lower end of the hose.
How to siphon the water out of a pool?
“The process of siphoning is pretty simple, but requires some finesse and attention to detail.” – Premier Pools & Spas
To start siphoning the water out of your pool, you will need a length of garden hose and access to an area that lies lower than where the pool currently sits. You’ll also want to make sure that any equipment like pumps or filters is turned off before beginning.
- Attach the hose to a spigot or faucet that has access to pressurized water.
- Turn the hose on for several minutes, allowing water to flow freely through the hose and pushing out any trapped air bubbles.
- Once the hose is full of water, turn off the spigot or faucet and plug the end of the hose with your thumb or a small stopper of some kind to prevent water from escaping.
- Lower the plugged end of the hose into the pool, being sure to keep it submerged below the surface of the water.
- Move the other end of the hose to an area that lies lower than where the pool is sitting – this could be a storm drain, dry well or even just a patch of grass on the edge of your property. This will allow gravity to flow water out of the pool and down the hose towards this area.
- Remove your thumb from the end of the hose once you’ve lowered it down into the pool – water should start flowing freely through the hose at this point using atmospheric pressure and gravity.
- Be careful not to let air in the hose while it is siphoning as this can disrupt the process, so try to keep it fully submerged.
When is siphoning not a good idea?
Siphoning is a viable method for removing excess water from your pool but may not always be the best option depending on the situation. If there are high levels of contaminants or chemicals present in the water, you’ll want to avoid siphoning them out as they may end up polluting your local environment.
In addition, if you’re dealing with a larger-scale decrease in water level (several inches or more), siphoning may not be efficient enough to work quickly. In these instances, consider using a submersible pump instead to help draw water out more efficiently.
“When lowering large swimming pools, we usually recommend renting a submersible pump to handle the job.” – Sterling Pool Service
All things considered, siphoning remains an effective method for quick water removal from small to medium-sized residential pools and hot tubs. Remember to carefully follow all steps for optimal results and avoid siphoning any water with high levels of contaminants or chemicals present.
Method 3: Using a bucket or a hose
What equipment do you need?
To lower the pool water level using this method, you will need either a bucket or a hose. If you opt for a bucket, make sure it is large enough to hold plenty of water. A garden hose connected to your pool’s drain spout is also an option.
How to use a bucket or a hose to lower the pool water level?
If you are using a bucket, fill it with water from the pool and dump it somewhere outside of the pool area. Repeat until the desired water level is reached. This method can be time-consuming and tiring, but it’s an effective way to remove small amounts of water.
For larger quantities of water removal, a garden hose attached to your pool’s drain spout might be more efficient. Turn on the spigot and wait as the water begins draining through the hose. Monitor the water level until it reaches the low point required. Once finished, detach the hose from the spout and store in a dry location.
What are the limitations of this method?
Using a bucket has limited usage because it is labor-intensive and unsuitable if water levels require significant adjustment. Hose drainage, alternatively, is significantly faster; however, keep in mind that high-pressure water gushes out quickly, so be cautious of damage to surrounding plants and soil erosion.
“The prevention of problems requires conscious thought and planning, whereas remediation generally takes resources such as money and time.” -Andrew James
In the case of lowering pool water levels, it may be easier to prevent overfilling in the first place rather than spending energy undoing it. To maintain regulated water support all season, the installation of an auto tap-off mechanism by a pool specialist is possible. A permanent device would provide peace of mind and require little maintenance, ensuring long-term water prevention without unnecessary expense or potential injury.
Method 4: Evaporating the water
If you need to lower your pool’s water level, evaporation is a simple and relatively quick method. This method involves waiting for the sun and wind to work together to evaporate the excess water in your pool.
How does evaporation work?
The process of evaporation occurs when liquid molecules on the surface of the pool absorb energy (heat) from the sun or air and transition into a gas state. As the gas state molecule rises, it cools down and condenses back into a liquid form. The cycle repeats until the desired amount of water has been removed from the pool.
How to speed up the evaporation process?
- Use submersible pumps to adjust the water flow and increase agitation at the pool’s surface.
- Circulate your pool water using your pool pump to create more surface area for faster evaporation.
- Install solar blankets that cover the pool during periods of sunlight to direct heat to specific areas of the pool where you want to reduce the waterlevel quickly.
What are the limitations of this method?
Evaporating the pool’s water can be time-consuming and tedious for some people who may not have ample time on their hands. Moreover, relying solely on evaporation might also leave unwanted residual impurities behind, like chemicals and minerals present in the water.
What are the potential risks of this method?
To avoid any safety risks associated with evaporating water out of your pool, ensure you don’t completely drain all the water from your pool. Doing so could cause damage to the liner beneath the swimming pool. Furthermore, if you reside in an area with a high humidity level, the evaporated water might condense back onto your pool’s surface; this means that you’ll end up just where you initially started. Therefore, it’s crucial to check weather conditions before opting for this method.
“Water is the most perfect traveller because when it travels, it becomes the path itself!” – Mehmet Murat Ildan
Method 5: Adjusting the pool water level with the pool filter
If you’re wondering how to lower pool water level, then adjusting the pool water level using the pool filter is one of the most common methods. However, there are certain limitations and potential risks associated with this method that you must keep in mind before proceeding.
What is the pool filter?
The pool filter system is an essential component for maintaining a clean swimming environment by removing debris and contaminants from the pool water. Typically, there are three types of pool filters – sand, cartridge, and DE (Diatomaceous Earth) filters – each functioning differently but serving the same purpose. Your pool filter may have variable speed options which can help adjust its function according to your requirement.
How to adjust the pool water level using the pool filter?
One way to lower the pool water level is to set your pool filter to ‘waste’ or ‘backwash’ mode. These settings will allow the pool pump to remove water directly out of the pool, bypassing the filter altogether. Be sure to monitor the process carefully and turn off the filter once the desired water level is achieved. Another option is to use the “drain” setting to empty your pool partially. But it’s important to remember never to completely drain your pool as this can cause serious damage to the structure, liner, or tile.
What are the limitations of this method?
Although adjusting the pool water level using the filter sounds like an easy solution, there are a few limitations to consider. Firstly, it’s not recommended if you have a cartridge filter as it can cause permanent damage to it. Moreover, excessive backwashing could lead to wear and tear on the filter and it may require frequent cleaning or replacement. Lastly, this method is not effective in removing all of the water out of your pool, meaning you might have to use additional methods if you require more extensive draining.
What are the potential risks of this method?
Before attempting to lower pool water level with the filter, it’s important to note that there could be some potential risks involved. Firstly, any modifications made to the equipment or system can cause damage that may lead to costly repairs. Secondly, excessive backwashing of the filter can cause the release of chemicals into storm drains which eventually end up in natural water bodies and pose hazards to aquatic life. Therefore, always follow manufacturer instructions regarding proper function, maintenance, and discharge procedures for your filtration system.
“It’s crucial to take precautions when considering lowering the water level using the filter. Failure to do so could cause significant problems.” – Joe Laborde from The Pool Guy Store
Adjusting the pool water level using a filter is a quick solution but requires caution in usage. Always keep in mind the limitations, risks, and heed expert advice before altering your pool equipment or making any changes.
Method 6: Seeking professional help
Maintaining a pool requires effort and time. Even if you follow the methods mentioned above, there still might be times where you need to seek professional assistance. Professional pool maintenance services can help ensure your pool is in optimal condition while saving you time and stress.
When should you seek professional help?
You may consider seeking professional help if you are unable to balance your pool chemistry despite following proper instructions or have persisting issues with algae growth. Another situation that may require professional assistance is if you notice significant damage to your pool liner, tiles, or decking area.
What are the benefits of seeking professional help?
Hiring a certified professional ensures that the job is done correctly the first time around. Professionals use specialized equipment and tools for cleaning and repairing pools, which means less hassle for owners. Additionally, professionals who maintain pools regularly can recommend and perform upgrades, ultimately improving pool efficiency, safety, and longevity.
What are the potential costs of seeking professional help?
The cost of hiring a professional pool maintenance company varies depending on various factors, including location, size, age, and condition of your pool. However, the average range falls between $75-$200 per hour. Additional fees may apply for necessary repairs or parts replacement. It’s ideal to receive quotes from multiple companies before making a decision.
How to find a reliable pool maintenance company?
To find a credible pool maintenance company, do extensive research. Start by asking friends and family for recommendations. If nobody you know has experience using a service provider, read online reviews, and check professional affiliations like the Better Business Bureau. A trustworthy pool maintenance company will provide certification proof indicating they hold required licenses, insurances, and permits to operate.
- Check the experience of the company. It’s best not to choose a start-up company without any prior experience, as they may lack necessary skills and knowledge
- Ensure that the company is providing an estimated budget for the service before taking their services
- An excellent pool maintenance firm should offer responsive customer service, be transparent about their processes and pricing policies, and give priority scheduling for quicker attention to issues with your pool
- The team members must have proper knowledge of the latest technology used in cleaning and repairing pools
“Choosing the right experts can significantly make a difference when it comes to pool maintenance. By choosing an experienced team, homeowners can alleviate significant stress and ensure optimal performance from their entire pool setup.” -Alvarez Plumbing & Air Conditioning
Pool ownership is enjoyable but requires effort and time. Regularly checking and maintaining chemicals in your pool can prevent problems like algae growth and equipment breakdown. Always keep in mind safety measures while lowering water levels or generally handling your pool. If you are uncertain about performing any task yourself, consider contacting professionals to do it safely and at ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to lower pool water level?
The best way to lower pool water level is by using a submersible pump. Place the pump in the pool and attach a hose to the outlet. Direct the hose away from the pool and turn on the pump. Monitor the water level and turn off the pump when it reaches the desired level.
Can I use a pool pump to lower water level?
No, a pool pump should not be used to lower water level. Pool pumps are designed to circulate and filter water, not remove it. Attempting to use a pool pump to lower water level can cause damage to the pump and other pool equipment.
How do I drain my pool without damaging it?
To drain your pool without damaging it, use a submersible pump to slowly and steadily remove the water. Do not drain the pool completely, as this can cause damage to the pool structure. Monitor the water level and stop the pump when it reaches the desired level.
How often should I lower my pool water level?
It is recommended to lower your pool water level once a year to prevent overflow and maintain proper water balance. However, if you experience heavy rainfall or have an excessive amount of water added to the pool, you may need to lower the water level more frequently.
Is it safe to lower my pool water level on my own?
Lowering your pool water level on your own is safe as long as you take the appropriate precautions. Use a submersible pump and follow manufacturer instructions carefully. Do not attempt to drain the pool completely and be sure to monitor the water level during the process.
What should I do if my pool water level is too low?
If your pool water level is too low, add water to the pool until it reaches the appropriate level. Use a garden hose to slowly add water and monitor the level as you go. Be sure to check for leaks or other issues that may be causing the water level to drop.