Welcome to our article on how to properly drain your 18 Ft Coleman Pool. Draining your pool can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done smoothly and efficiently. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of draining your pool, discuss the benefits of proper pool maintenance, and give you tips to avoid common mistakes.
At the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of the necessary steps to take to drain your pool and ensure it remains in top condition for your family to enjoy.
So, whether you are a first-time pool owner or an experienced one, keep reading to learn the proper way to drain your pool and avoid any costly mistakes in the process.
Table of Contents
Step-by-step guide to draining your 18 ft Coleman pool
Draining your 18 ft Coleman pool is a necessary part of pool maintenance to ensure a healthy and safe swimming environment. With the right tools and some basic knowledge, you can easily drain your pool in a few simple steps.
The first step is to gather all the necessary tools and equipment for the job. You will need a submersible pump, a garden hose, a pair of pliers, and a flathead screwdriver. Make sure that these tools are in good condition and that you have easy access to an electrical outlet.
Next, turn off the power to your pool and disconnect the pump, filter, and heater. Then, locate the drain plug at the bottom of your pool and remove it using a pair of pliers or a flathead screwdriver. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when handling the drain plug to avoid any injuries.
Attach the garden hose to the submersible pump and place the pump at the lowest point of the pool. Turn on the pump and let it drain the water out of your pool. Do not forget to regularly check the pump to ensure that it is working properly and that the water is flowing out smoothly.
Once the pool is drained, use a pool brush to scrub the walls and floor of the pool. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated in the pool. Then, rinse the pool with a garden hose to get rid of any remaining debris. Do not use any harsh chemicals or cleaning agents during this process as they can damage the pool lining.
Finally, replace the drain plug, and you’re done! Now you can refill your pool with fresh water and start enjoying your swimming pool once again. Regular pool maintenance, including draining your pool, is essential for a healthy and safe swimming environment.
Shut off the pool pump and filter
Locate the pool pump: The first step is to locate the pool pump and filter system. This is typically located near the pool or in a shed nearby.
Turn off the power: Once you’ve located the pool pump, turn off the power to the pool pump and filter system. This will prevent any accidents or injuries while draining the pool.
Close the valves: Next, close the valves on the pool pump and filter system. This will prevent any water from flowing back into the pool while it’s being drained.
Remove the drain plug: Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the pool and remove it. Make sure to place a hose into the pool to direct the water away from the pool area.
Wait for the pool to drain: Once you’ve removed the drain plug, wait for the pool to drain completely. This process can take anywhere from several hours to a full day depending on the size of your pool.
It’s important to follow these steps carefully to avoid any damage to your pool or injury to yourself. Once the pool is drained, you can begin cleaning and performing any necessary maintenance to keep your pool in top condition.
Attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the pool
Once you have turned off the pool pump and filter, it is time to attach a garden hose to the drain valve at the bottom of the pool. This valve is usually located at the deepest part of the pool and has a cap that needs to be removed before the hose can be attached. It is important to ensure that the hose is securely attached to the valve to avoid leaks and spills.
Before attaching the hose, it is a good idea to lay it out in a straight line to remove any kinks or twists. This will ensure a smooth flow of water when the draining process begins. Additionally, make sure the other end of the hose is in a suitable drainage area that can handle the large volume of water that will come out of the pool.
- Use a large diameter hose: To ensure the water drains quickly, use a large diameter hose. A 2-inch hose is recommended for most pools.
- Secure the hose: To avoid the hose from slipping out of the drain valve, use a hose clamp to secure it in place.
- Direct the water away from the pool: Make sure the hose is pointed away from the pool and any nearby structures to avoid damage.
- Check the hose regularly: While draining, check the hose regularly to ensure it is still securely attached and the water is flowing smoothly.
- Monitor the drainage area: Keep an eye on the drainage area and ensure it can handle the volume of water coming out of the pool. Move the hose if necessary.
With the hose securely attached to the drain valve and the other end in a suitable drainage area, you are ready to begin draining your 18 ft Coleman pool. The next step is to open the valve and let the water flow out. Be sure to monitor the process regularly to ensure everything is going smoothly.
The benefits of proper pool maintenance and draining
Regular pool maintenance and proper draining are essential to ensure your pool remains clean, safe and functional throughout the year. By maintaining your pool, you can extend its lifespan, improve the overall water quality, and keep the water free from harmful bacteria and algae growth.
Proper maintenance and draining can also help you save money in the long run. By preventing costly repairs, you can avoid unexpected expenses and keep your pool running smoothly. Additionally, regularly draining and refilling your pool can help you save money on chemical treatments and energy costs.
Proper pool maintenance and draining can also help protect your investment. A well-maintained pool can add value to your property and increase its curb appeal. By taking good care of your pool, you can ensure that it remains a beautiful and enjoyable feature of your home for years to come.
Maintaining your pool can also have health benefits. By keeping the water clean and balanced, you can prevent skin and eye irritation, as well as reduce the risk of waterborne illnesses. Regular pool maintenance and draining can also help reduce the amount of chlorine and other harsh chemicals needed to keep the water clean, making it safer and healthier for you and your family.
Lastly, proper pool maintenance and draining can help you enjoy your pool to the fullest. By keeping it clean and well-maintained, you can ensure that it’s always ready for a refreshing swim, a pool party or a relaxing afternoon by the water.
Regular pool maintenance and proper draining have many benefits, one of which is that it extends the lifespan of your pool. Over time, debris, chemicals, and minerals can accumulate in the water, leading to corrosion, staining, and discoloration of the pool’s surfaces.
Draining and refilling the pool at least once a year helps to remove these contaminants and prevent further damage to the pool. It also allows you to inspect and repair any cracks, leaks, or other damage that may have occurred over time.
In addition, proper maintenance and draining can help to maintain the chemical balance in your pool. When the water is balanced, it not only looks and feels better, but it is also safer for swimmers and can help to prevent damage to the pool equipment.
Reduces the risk of waterborne illnesses
- Eliminates harmful bacteria: Regular pool maintenance and draining remove harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and Giardia, that can cause illnesses.
- Prevents algae growth: Algae can make your pool slippery and create a breeding ground for bacteria and other harmful organisms.
- Keeps pH levels balanced: Proper pool maintenance ensures that the pH level of the water remains balanced, which makes it harder for bacteria to thrive.
- Reduces the need for chemicals: Regular maintenance and draining reduce the need for excessive amounts of chemicals, which can be harmful to swimmers and the environment.
- Ensures clear, clean water: Proper pool maintenance and draining will keep your water crystal clear and free of debris, ensuring that you and your family can enjoy your pool without worry.
By reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses, you can rest easy knowing that your pool is safe for your family and friends to swim in. Don’t let dirty pool water ruin your summer fun!
Saves money on chemical treatments
Proper pool maintenance and draining can also save you money on chemical treatments. When a pool is not maintained correctly, algae and bacteria can grow, which requires the use of more chemicals to kill them. By draining and cleaning your pool regularly, you can prevent the buildup of these harmful organisms and reduce the amount of chemicals needed to keep your pool clean.
In addition, draining your pool allows you to start fresh with new water, which can also help reduce the need for chemicals. Over time, the water in your pool can become saturated with minerals and other impurities, which can make it more difficult to maintain proper chemical levels. By draining and refilling your pool, you can ensure that the water is clean and balanced, which can save you money on chemical treatments in the long run.
Overall, proper pool maintenance and draining are essential for keeping your pool clean, safe, and cost-effective. By following the steps outlined in this article and staying on top of your pool maintenance routine, you can enjoy your pool to the fullest while minimizing the time, effort, and money required to keep it in top condition.
Common mistakes to avoid when draining your pool
Not preparing the area around the pool: Failing to prepare the area around the pool can result in damage to the pool or surrounding structures. Make sure to clear the area of any debris or objects that could puncture the pool liner.
Draining the pool too quickly: Draining the pool too quickly can cause the liner to shrink or crack, which can lead to costly repairs. To avoid this, it’s recommended to drain the pool slowly, at a rate of no more than one inch per hour.
Disregarding local regulations: Some cities and counties have regulations on how to drain a pool properly to avoid contaminating water sources. It’s important to check with local authorities and follow their guidelines to avoid any legal issues or fines.
Draining all the water at once
Problem: Draining all the water from your pool at once can cause the pool walls to shift or even collapse under the pressure of the surrounding soil and groundwater.
Solution: Instead, drain the water gradually in sections, alternating between the deep and shallow ends. This will alleviate the pressure on the walls and prevent any damage from occurring.
Tips: Make sure to turn off the pump and filter before starting the draining process. Use a sump pump to remove the water more efficiently, and direct the drained water away from your home’s foundation to avoid any flooding or water damage.
Not checking for clogs or obstructions in the drain valve
One common mistake when draining a pool is not checking for clogs or obstructions in the drain valve. Over time, debris can accumulate in the valve and prevent water from draining properly. This can cause water to back up in the pool or even damage the drain valve.
To avoid this mistake, be sure to inspect the drain valve and remove any debris before draining your pool. You can use a garden hose to flush out the valve and ensure that water is flowing freely.
If you encounter a clog that cannot be removed, it may be necessary to call a professional pool service to take care of the problem.
Not properly storing the pool cover during draining
Another common mistake to avoid when draining your pool is not properly storing the pool cover. If you have a pool cover, it’s important to remove it and store it properly during the draining process. This will prevent any damage to the cover and ensure that it can be used again once the pool is refilled.
When removing the cover, make sure to clean it thoroughly and allow it to dry completely before storing it. Fold it neatly and place it in a dry, cool area away from any sharp objects or direct sunlight. You may also want to use a cover storage bag to protect it further.
Not properly storing the pool cover can result in damage to the cover, which may require costly repairs or replacement. By taking the time to store it properly, you can extend the life of the cover and save money in the long run.
Tools you need to drain your 18 ft Coleman pool
Before you start draining your 18 ft Coleman pool, you need to gather the necessary tools. The tools you need include a garden hose, a submersible pump, and a water disposal area.
Garden hose: The garden hose is used to connect to the pool’s drain valve and direct the water to the water disposal area. Make sure the garden hose is long enough to reach the disposal area.
Submersible pump: The submersible pump is used to speed up the draining process. It is a water pump that is designed to be placed in the pool and submerged underwater. The pump is then connected to the garden hose to pump the water out of the pool.
Garden hose
A garden hose is one of the essential tools needed to drain your 18 ft Coleman pool. It helps in siphoning water out of the pool by attaching it to the pool’s drain valve. Ensure that the garden hose is long enough to reach the drainage area and away from the pool’s foundation. It is also essential to clean the garden hose before using it to avoid transferring debris and contaminants back into the pool.
Proper handling: Avoid kinking the garden hose as this may restrict water flow and lead to backpressure. Always handle the garden hose with care to prevent damage and leaks.
Maintenance: Clean the garden hose after use and store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to prolong its lifespan.
Submersible pump
One of the most efficient ways to drain your 18 ft Coleman pool is by using a submersible pump. This pump can be placed directly into the pool and is designed to pump large volumes of water quickly.
Make sure to purchase a pump with a long enough cord to reach your power outlet and that is capable of handling the amount of water in your pool. You may also need to use an extension cord to reach your power source.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using the submersible pump and take all necessary safety precautions.
Tips for a smooth and stress-free pool draining experience
Plan ahead: Before draining your pool, ensure you have all the necessary tools and equipment on hand. This will help avoid any last-minute rushes or trips to the store.
Check your local regulations: Be sure to check with your local municipality or pool authority to see if there are any specific rules or regulations regarding pool draining. Some areas may have restrictions on where you can drain the water.
Dispose of the water responsibly: The water from your pool may contain chemicals and other contaminants, so it’s important to dispose of it responsibly. You may need to contact a professional pool company or the local authorities to ensure proper disposal.
Check the weather forecast before draining your pool
It is important to check the weather forecast before draining your pool, especially if you plan on leaving it empty for a while. If there is a chance of rain, it is best to postpone draining your pool until the weather clears up. This is because rainwater can cause damage to your pool, especially if it is left uncovered.
Additionally, if the weather is expected to be hot and sunny, it is a good idea to plan on draining your pool early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not as strong. This will help prevent the remaining water in the pool from evaporating too quickly and causing damage to the pool’s surface.
Finally, make sure to have a plan in place in case of unexpected weather changes. Have a pool cover or tarp on hand in case of sudden rain, and be prepared to stop draining your pool if the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to drain an 18 ft Coleman pool?
Draining an 18 ft Coleman pool involves a few steps, such as turning off the pool pump, attaching a garden hose or submersible pump to the drain valve, and allowing the water to drain out. It is important to ensure that the water is being discharged safely and not causing damage to the surrounding area.
Can I drain my pool without a pump?
It is possible to drain an 18 ft Coleman pool without a pump by attaching a garden hose to the drain valve and allowing gravity to do the work. However, using a submersible pump can make the process faster and more efficient. It is important to choose the right method for your pool and ensure that the water is being discharged safely.
How long does it take to drain an 18 ft Coleman pool?
The time it takes to drain an 18 ft Coleman pool depends on several factors, such as the amount of water in the pool, the method used to drain it, and the drainage location. Using a submersible pump can make the process faster, typically taking a few hours. Draining with a garden hose may take longer, up to several days, depending on the size of the pool and the water flow rate.
Do I need to clean the pool before draining it?
It is recommended to clean an 18 ft Coleman pool before draining it to remove any debris or contaminants that may be present in the water. This can help prevent clogging or damage to the drainage system. Additionally, cleaning the pool beforehand can make the process easier and more efficient, allowing the water to drain more quickly.
How often should I drain my 18 ft Coleman pool?
The frequency of draining an 18 ft Coleman pool depends on several factors, such as the amount of use, the amount of debris and contaminants in the water, and the climate. As a general rule, it is recommended to drain and refill the pool every 3-5 years. However, if the water is visibly dirty or has an unusual smell, it may be necessary to drain it more frequently.