Do you really need to drain your pool?

How often should I drain my pool?

Despite most pools having a filtration system, most pools need to be drained and refilled on occasion. But why should you drain your pool? When should you? How often? Below, we’ll give you quick tips on the when, where, why, and how’s of pool draining.

*Be warned, however, draining your pool should only be done when the circumstances absolutely require it, and most people likely should hire professionals to undertake the procedure as draining imposes serious a serious risk of damaging the pool.*

Why should I drain my pool?

With differences depending on your climate and how often you maintain your pool, pool industry experts recommend you replace your pool water every 5 to 7 years. As pool water is subject to harsh chemicals, a potentially harsh environment, and biological remains such as dead skin, oils, and hair, pool water can no longer be effectively treated after those 5-years.

Pool water that is too old or has been unmaintained can also damage the surface of your pool. Environmental conditions can often lead to hard water, which will eventually leave calcium and mineral deposits that can easily damage pool tiles and grout. Maintaining your pool water is preferable –and cheaper– to repairing damaged pool tiles and finishes.

When should I drain my pool?

As stated in the previous section, most in-ground pools should be completely drained and the water replaced every 5 to 7 years. Exactly how often will depend on your maintenance schedule, how frequently the pool is used, and what kind of environment your pool is in.

Pools should be drained during the mild seasons to prevent unnecessary sun, heat, or moisture damage to the pool surfaces and filtration systems.

In almost all cases, pools should not ever be drained for cleaning, as this can be done underwater.

Pools should not be drained after significant rain or storms as the water table will add extra pressure to the bottom of your pool.

How do I drain my pool?

First, speak to a professional to determine whether your pool needs to be drained. Most pool maintenance can be done with the pool at least partially full. If you have determined your pool needs to be drained, but are not one hundred percent comfortable draining and completing the repairs yourself, hire a professional pool maintenance contractor or company. A botched draining will cost significantly more to fix than hiring experts.

The first step in draining your pool is to gather the required tools. You’ll need a sump pump, a bucket, and a hose with a spray nozzle.

You can rent a sump pump from home improvement and equipment stores, usually by the hour or day. The pump should come with the pump and hoses.

Make sure to open the hydrostatic valve at the bottom of your pool before starting to pump the water. This prevents the hydrostatic pressure from lifting the entirety of your pool out of the ground. Opening the valve might require pliers. If there is water pressure from the valve when you open it, close the valve and cease the draining process.

Begin pumping the pool. Refer to the instructions provided by your rental supplier.

As the water level drops, spray down the edges of your pool to keep the edges clean and prevent sediment lines.

Once the water is below the level the pump can drain, use your bucket to scoop out what remains.

You’ve now drained your pool and are able to perform your repairs. Be warned, you should not keep your pool drained for any significant period of time, as this will likely result in basin damage.

*TO REITERATE*:

Please do not attempt to drain your pool without significant research beforehand and without a definite cause. Do not attempt if you are not 100% comfortable with the process, and consult a pool maintenance professional before attempting.

Source: How Often Should I Drain My Pool? – The Pool Master Service