How to Drain a Pool: A Step-by-Step Guide

Is your pool looking more like a swamp than a sparkling oasis? Whether it’s due to stubborn algae blooms, a necessary repair, or preparing for the winter freeze, there comes a time when every pool owner needs to drain their pool. Properly draining a pool isn’t just about pulling the plug – it involves understanding the right techniques to avoid costly structural damage and ensure the safety of your property and the environment. Ignoring these crucial steps can lead to a pool shell cracking due to hydrostatic pressure, landscaping erosion, or even overloading your local sewer system.

Knowing how to safely and effectively drain your pool is a critical skill for any pool owner. A DIY approach can save you money on professional services, but only if executed correctly. This guide will walk you through each stage of the process, from assessing your specific pool type and choosing the right method, to minimizing the risks associated with hydrostatic pressure and water disposal. By following these steps, you can confidently drain your pool while protecting your investment and the surrounding area.

What do I need to know before I drain my pool?

What’s the best way to drain my pool without damaging it?

The best way to drain your pool safely involves using a submersible pump, monitoring the water table, and proceeding slowly, especially if draining the pool completely. The key is to avoid hydrostatic pressure build-up that can cause the pool to crack or lift out of the ground.

To minimize risk, start by assessing the water table around your pool. You can often do this by digging a hole a few feet deep near the pool’s edge. If the hole fills with water quickly, the water table is high, and you should only drain the pool partially (no more than a foot or two) to perform specific maintenance or repairs. Draining a pool completely with a high water table can be extremely risky and might require professional assistance who can perform hydrostatic relief. If the water table is low, you can proceed with draining, but do so gradually. Use a submersible pump placed in the deepest part of the pool to remove the water. Monitor the pool walls and floor for any signs of bulging or cracking as the water level drops. If you observe any issues, stop draining immediately and refill the pool partially to equalize the pressure. Finally, remember to turn off the power to your pool equipment before draining to prevent damage to pumps and filters. A slow and steady approach, combined with careful monitoring, is crucial for protecting your pool’s structural integrity.

How do I know if I need a permit to drain my pool?

The easiest way to determine if you need a permit to drain your pool is to contact your local city or county government’s environmental health department, water management district, or building permit office. They can provide information on local regulations and permit requirements.

Many municipalities have specific ordinances regarding pool drainage due to concerns about environmental impact and the potential for flooding or contamination of the local water supply. Discharging large volumes of chlorinated or chemically treated water into storm drains or sanitary sewers can harm aquatic ecosystems and disrupt wastewater treatment processes. Permits often ensure proper drainage methods are followed, such as dechlorinating the water or directing it to a specific location for treatment or disposal. Failing to obtain a required permit can result in fines, penalties, and even legal action. Even if a permit isn’t strictly required, there may be best practices or recommendations for responsible pool drainage that your local authorities can provide. Factors influencing permit requirements often include the volume of water being discharged, the location of the discharge point (storm drain, sanitary sewer, or landscape), and the chemical composition of the pool water. Always err on the side of caution and check with your local authorities before draining your pool.

What should I do with the water after I drain my pool?

The most important thing is to drain your pool water responsibly to avoid damaging your property or your neighbor’s, and to comply with local regulations. Generally, this means avoiding direct discharge into storm drains or onto your neighbor’s property. The best approach is usually to drain the water slowly into your home’s sanitary sewer system via a cleanout, or to use a pump to distribute the water across your lawn in a controlled manner, allowing it to absorb gradually into the ground.

Draining directly into a storm drain is typically illegal because pool water often contains chemicals like chlorine, algaecides, and cyanuric acid (stabilizer) that can harm aquatic ecosystems. Local regulations vary widely, so it is crucial to contact your city or county’s water department or environmental agency before you begin draining your pool. They can provide guidance on permitted drainage methods and any specific restrictions in your area. Failing to follow these guidelines could result in fines.

If you choose to drain onto your lawn, ensure that the water is dechlorinated first. You can dechlorinate the water naturally by allowing it to sit for several days, or use a chemical dechlorinator readily available at pool supply stores. Distribute the water slowly and evenly across a large area to prevent erosion and avoid flooding your lawn or your neighbor’s property. Be mindful of any landscaping or plants that might be sensitive to the pool water’s chemical composition, even after dechlorination.

Consider these points:

• Contact your local water authority: They provide the most accurate and up-to-date information about local regulations.
• Dechlorinate: Essential for environmental safety when draining onto your lawn or into storm drains (where permitted).
• Controlled Drainage: Slow, even distribution prevents damage and flooding.

How long does it typically take to completely drain a pool?

The time it takes to completely drain a pool typically ranges from 8 to 24 hours, but it can vary significantly based on several factors, primarily the pool’s size, the pump’s flow rate, and the diameter of the hose used for drainage.

The most significant factor influencing drainage time is the pool’s volume. A larger pool naturally holds more water and will require a longer drainage period compared to a smaller one. Next, the pump’s flow rate, measured in gallons per hour (GPH), directly impacts how quickly water is removed. A more powerful pump with a higher GPH rating will drain the pool faster. Finally, the diameter of the hose also plays a critical role. A wider hose allows for a greater volume of water to pass through at a time, accelerating the drainage process compared to a narrower hose which restricts flow. Beyond these core factors, the presence of any debris or obstructions in the pump or hose can slow down the process. Ensure that the pump intake is free of leaves or other blockage. Also, the vertical distance the water needs to be pumped (the “head”) can also affect drainage time; the higher the lift, the slower the flow rate. Proper maintenance and preparation can help optimize drainage speed and ensure a smoother process.

What’s the difference between draining with a submersible pump versus the pool’s pump?

The primary difference lies in their intended function and practical application for draining a pool. A submersible pump is designed specifically for pumping water and can handle debris-laden water to near complete drainage, while a pool’s circulation pump is designed for continuous filtration and is not suited for the same.

Using your pool’s pump to drain the pool entirely can cause significant damage. Pool pumps aren’t designed to run dry or handle large amounts of debris. Attempting to drain the pool completely using the existing pump risks burning out the motor due to lack of water for cooling and lubrication, and clogs may easily form due to the higher sediment concentration at the bottom of the pool. The pool’s pump system is designed to filter clean water and is crucial for normal operation, so protecting it is a high priority. A submersible pump, on the other hand, is purpose-built for this type of task. It’s designed to operate while submerged in water, uses water to cool the motor, and can typically handle solids and debris that would quickly damage a pool’s circulation pump. Submersible pumps also sit at the bottom of the pool, allowing them to remove nearly all the water, which is essential when a complete drain is required. They are portable and readily available at most hardware stores. Consider these key differences when deciding which method to use:

• Capability: Submersible pumps are designed to handle near-complete drainage and dirty water. Pool pumps are not.
• Risk of Damage: Using a pool pump to completely drain a pool can lead to burnout or clogging.
• Efficiency: Submersible pumps efficiently remove water from the lowest point, ensuring nearly complete drainage.

What are the risks of draining a pool and how can I avoid them?

Draining a pool poses several risks, including hydrostatic pressure potentially causing the pool to pop out of the ground, damage to the pool’s surface (cracking, blistering, or fading) due to sun exposure, and potential disruption of the water table. You can largely avoid these by assessing the water table level, choosing the right time of year, draining the pool slowly, and taking precautions to protect the pool’s surface.

Hydrostatic pressure is a significant concern. When the water table is high, the water pressure from the surrounding ground can exert immense force on the empty pool shell, especially fiberglass or vinyl liner pools. This can lead to the pool literally floating or cracking. To mitigate this, have a pool professional perform a hydrostatic pressure test or check local historical water table data before draining. If the water table is high, you might need to pump water from behind the pool shell during the draining process, which is typically a job best left to professionals with specialized equipment. Never drain a pool completely after heavy rain or during periods of prolonged rain. Another risk is damage to the pool’s interior surface. Plaster and concrete pools can crack or blister if left exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, especially in hot weather. Vinyl liners can shrink, fade, and become brittle. To prevent this, avoid draining the pool during the hottest part of the year. If you must drain it, consider covering the pool’s surface with tarps or other protective materials. Refill the pool as quickly as possible once the necessary repairs or cleaning have been completed. For vinyl liner pools, consider leaving a small amount of water (a few inches) in the pool to help prevent the liner from shrinking. While less frequent, draining a large pool can impact local water tables. Before draining, check local regulations regarding water disposal. Draining directly into the sewer system might be prohibited or require a permit. If draining onto your property, be mindful of erosion and potential flooding of neighboring properties. Consider draining the pool slowly, over several days, to minimize the impact.

How much does it cost to drain a pool professionally?

The cost to professionally drain a pool typically ranges from $150 to $450, but this can vary significantly based on factors like pool size, location, the complexity of the drainage process (e.g., presence of a hydrostatic valve), and disposal requirements. Some companies may charge a flat fee, while others bill by the hour, so it’s essential to get quotes from multiple professionals.

Draining a pool might seem straightforward, but it involves more than simply opening a valve. Professionals assess the surrounding water table to prevent the pool from “popping” out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure. They also ensure proper disposal of the water, adhering to local regulations that often prohibit draining chlorinated water directly into storm drains or sewers. This might require neutralizing the chemicals first or using a specialized pump to slowly discharge the water over time into a safe location. The price can further increase if the pool requires specific treatments before or after draining. For example, an acid wash to remove stubborn stains after the pool is empty will add to the overall cost. Also, if a hydrostatic valve is clogged or malfunctioning, the professional will need to address that which can add to the labor expenses. Therefore, always clarify what the quoted price includes before hiring someone to drain your pool.

And that’s all there is to it! Pool drained, ready for whatever comes next. Thanks for reading through, and we hope this guide helped you out. Feel free to swing by again if you have any other pool-related questions – we’re always happy to lend a hand!