Owning an inground pool comes with its own responsibilities, and an important task is draining the pool when needed. Whether you are preparing for winter closure, performing maintenance, or addressing water quality issues, it is crucial to drain your inground pool properly. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process to ensure a safe and efficient draining experience.
Reasons to Drain an Inground Pool
Before diving into the draining process, it is important to understand why you might need to drain your inground pool. Common reasons include:
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Winter Closure: Partially draining the pool is a key step in preparing it for winter. This prevents the water from freezing and potential damage to the pool's structure and equipment.
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Cleaning and Maintenance: Over time, debris, minerals, and contaminants can accumulate in the water. Draining the pool allows for a thorough
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cleaning and maintenance process.Adjusting Water Chemistry: If the water chemistry is unbalanced, draining and refilling the pool
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can help achieve the desired chemical levels.Repair or Replacement of Pool Equipment:
When repairing or replacing pool equipment, it is often necessary to drain the pool to access and work on various components.
Check Local Regulations
Before starting the draining process, check with local authorities to ensure you comply with any regulations regarding pool drainage. Some areas have specific guidelines to prevent water waste and environmental impact.
Gather Necessary EquipmentTo drain your inground pool
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effectively, gather the following equipment:Submersible Pump:
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A submersible pump is a powerful tool designed to quickly drain large amounts of water.Hose:
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Connect a hose to the pump to direct the water to an appropriate drainage location.Garden Hose or Backwash Hose:
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Depending on your pool's plumbing system, you may need a garden hose or backwash hose to facilitate the draining process.Safety Equipment:
Use appropriate safety gear, including gloves and safety goggles, to protect yourself during the process.
Plan the Drainage Path
Determine the drainage path for the pumped water. Avoid areas that could cause erosion, damage landscaping, or flood neighboring properties. Ensure the water flows away from the house foundation.
Partial Draining vs. Full Draining
Consider whether you need to drain the pool partially or completely depending on the purpose of the draining. For winter closure or routine maintenance, partial draining is usually sufficient. Full draining is typically used for more extensive repairs or renovations.
Draining Process
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Follow these steps for a safe and efficient draining process:Turn Off Power: Turn off the pool pump
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and all related power sources before starting the draining process.Locate Drain Plugs:
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Identify and remove any drain plugs in the pool equipment, including pump, filter, and heater. This ensures water drains from all components.Connect the Submersible Pump: Lower the pump into the pool's
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deep end and connect the hose to the pump outlet.Direct Water Flow:
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Position the hose to direct the water away from the pool and toward the designated drainage area.Start the Pump:
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Turn on the submersible pump to begin the draining process. Monitor the water level and adjust the hose as needed.Monitor Water Level:
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Regularly check the water level to avoid draining too much water, especially in areas with high groundwater levels.Refill as Needed: If you are only partially draining the pool
, pause the pump regularly and refill the pool with fresh water to maintain a safe water level.
Final Steps
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Once the desired water level has been reached:Turn Off the Pump:
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Turn off the submersible pump and disconnect it from the power source.Replace Drain Plugs:
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Reinstall any drain plugs that were removed from the pool equipment.Refill the Pool:
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If you partially drained the pool, refill it with fresh water to the appropriate level.Balance Water Chemistry:
Test and adjust the water chemistry as needed to ensure a healthy and balanced pool environment.
ConclusionProperly draining an inground pool is a necessary task for pool owners
