Draining a pool seems like a drastic measure, but sometimes it’s the only way to truly hit the reset button on your swimming oasis. The decision to drain your pool and start over isn’t one to take lightly. It involves a considerable amount of effort, time, and potential costs. But fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to determine if draining is the right choice, and if so, how to do it safely and effectively.
When Draining Your Pool Might Be Necessary
Sometimes, the problems lurking beneath the surface of your pool water extend beyond what routine maintenance and chemical adjustments can fix. Before you commit to draining, let’s explore situations where it becomes a genuinely viable solution.
Severe Algae Infestations
Algae blooms can be a persistent problem for pool owners. While regular algaecides can often keep these green invaders at bay, a severe infestation that turns your pool into a murky swamp may resist even the most aggressive chemical treatments. In these cases, draining allows you to thoroughly clean the pool surface, removing the embedded algae and giving you a clean slate to start with. Draining the pool eliminates the algae’s breeding ground.
Staining and Mineral Buildup
Over time, minerals in your pool water, such as calcium and iron, can accumulate on the pool’s surfaces, causing unsightly stains. These stains can be difficult to remove with typical cleaning methods. Similarly, excessive calcium buildup can lead to scaling, which not only looks bad but can also damage your pool equipment. Draining the pool allows for aggressive stain removal. You can use specialized cleaning solutions designed for specific types of stains to restore the pool’s original appearance.
Major Repairs and Renovations
If you’re planning significant repairs or renovations, draining is almost always necessary. Whether you’re patching cracks, replacing the liner, or resurfacing the pool, having it completely empty provides the access and working space needed to complete the job properly.
Water Chemistry Imbalance Beyond Repair
While regular testing and adjustments can usually keep your pool water chemistry in check, there are situations where the imbalance becomes so severe that it’s impossible to correct. For example, extremely high levels of cyanuric acid (CYA) can lock up chlorine, rendering it ineffective as a sanitizer. In such cases, diluting the water with fresh water might help, but draining and refilling is often the most effective way to restore proper water chemistry.
Assessing the Risks of Draining Your Pool
Draining your pool isn’t without potential risks. Before you proceed, it’s crucial to understand the possible downsides and take precautions to minimize them.
Pool Pop-Out
One of the most significant risks of draining an in-ground pool is the potential for it to “pop out” of the ground. This happens when the hydrostatic pressure (the pressure exerted by groundwater) exceeds the weight of the empty pool shell. This risk is highest in areas with high water tables or after periods of heavy rain. Always check the water table level before draining your pool.
Cracking and Structural Damage
The weight of the water in your pool helps to support its structure. When you drain the pool, the walls are no longer supported, and they can be susceptible to cracking or shifting, especially in older pools. The risk is heightened if the pool’s foundation is unstable or if the soil around the pool is expansive clay, which can shrink and swell with changes in moisture content.
Liner Damage (Vinyl Pools)
If you have a vinyl liner pool, draining it can cause the liner to shrink, wrinkle, or even tear. Vinyl liners are designed to be submerged in water, and when exposed to air, they can become brittle and less flexible. Never drain a vinyl liner pool completely unless you’re planning to replace the liner. Even then, consult with a pool professional.
Equipment Damage
Draining your pool can also damage your pool equipment. Running your pump dry can cause it to overheat and fail. Similarly, if your pool equipment is exposed to freezing temperatures after the pool is drained, it can crack or break.
How to Safely Drain Your Pool
If you’ve carefully considered the pros and cons and decided that draining your pool is the right course of action, it’s essential to do it safely and responsibly.
Check the Water Table Level
Before you even think about draining your pool, check the water table level in your area. You can usually do this by contacting your local building department or water authority. If the water table is high, it’s best to avoid draining your pool altogether. If you must drain it, consider hiring a pool professional who can use a hydrostatic relief valve or dewatering techniques to prevent the pool from popping out.
Use a Submersible Pump
The most efficient way to drain your pool is to use a submersible pump. These pumps are designed to be placed directly in the water and can quickly pump out large volumes of water. Make sure to choose a pump with enough power to handle the size of your pool. A good submersible pump will save you time and effort.
Drain the Water Responsibly
Don’t just drain your pool water onto your lawn or into the street. Pool water contains chemicals that can harm plants and contaminate local waterways. The best option is to drain the water into your home’s sewer cleanout, if permissible by local regulations. Alternatively, you can discharge the water into a storm drain, but only after dechlorinating it to a safe level. To dechlorinate the water, use a chemical dechlorinator available at pool supply stores.
Monitor the Pool During Draining
As the pool drains, keep a close eye on the pool shell for any signs of cracking, shifting, or bulging. If you notice anything unusual, stop draining the pool immediately and consult with a pool professional. Early detection of problems can prevent serious damage.
Protect the Pool Surface
Once the pool is drained, protect the surface from the elements. If you have a plaster pool, keep it moist by hosing it down periodically. This will help prevent cracking. If you have a vinyl liner pool, avoid exposing the liner to direct sunlight for extended periods.
Cleaning and Preparing Your Pool After Draining
Once your pool is drained, it’s time to clean it thoroughly and prepare it for refilling.
Clean the Pool Surface
Use a stiff brush and a specialized pool cleaner to scrub the pool surface and remove any algae, stains, or mineral deposits. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a stronger acid-based cleaner, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and wear appropriate safety gear.
Inspect for Damage
Now is the perfect time to inspect the pool for any cracks, leaks, or other damage. Pay close attention to the areas around the skimmer, returns, and lights. If you find any damage, repair it before refilling the pool.
Prepare for Refilling
Before refilling the pool, inspect the hydrostatic relief valve (if your pool has one) to ensure it’s functioning properly. Lubricate the o-rings and gaskets on your pool equipment to prevent leaks.
Refilling Your Pool and Balancing the Water
Refilling your pool is the final step in the process. Take your time and follow these tips to ensure a smooth and successful refill.
Use a Garden Hose with a Filter
Fill your pool with a garden hose connected to a pre-filter. This will help remove any sediment or debris from the water as it enters the pool.
Monitor the Water Level
As the pool fills, monitor the water level and adjust the hose as needed. Avoid overfilling the pool.
Balance the Water Chemistry
Once the pool is full, test the water chemistry and adjust the levels as needed. Start by checking the pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and cyanuric acid levels. Add chemicals in small increments, following the manufacturer’s instructions, and retest the water after each addition. Proper water balance is crucial for preventing algae growth and protecting your pool equipment.
Alternative Solutions to Draining Your Pool
Before you commit to draining your pool, consider exploring alternative solutions that might address your specific problem.
Acid Washing
Acid washing involves draining the pool and applying a diluted muriatic acid solution to the pool surface. This can effectively remove stains and mineral deposits, but it’s a harsh process that should only be done by a professional. Acid washing can remove a thin layer of plaster, so it’s not recommended for pools with thin or damaged plaster.
Chemical Treatments
For algae infestations or water chemistry imbalances, consider using specialized chemical treatments. There are algaecides, clarifiers, and balancers that can help restore your pool water to its optimal condition. Consult with a pool professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation.
Partial Draining and Refilling
In some cases, you may not need to drain your entire pool. If you’re dealing with high CYA levels, for example, partially draining and refilling the pool can dilute the water and bring the CYA levels down to a more manageable range.
Draining your pool and starting over is a significant undertaking. Carefully consider the pros and cons, assess the risks, and follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and successful process. Remember, when in doubt, consult with a qualified pool professional.
Why might someone consider draining and refilling their pool?
Draining and refilling a pool might be considered for several reasons, the most common being excessively high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS). Over time, minerals, salts, and other substances accumulate in pool water. While chlorine helps sanitize, it doesn’t remove these dissolved solids. When TDS levels get too high (typically above 2500 ppm), water becomes increasingly difficult to balance, leading to cloudy water, scale formation, and reduced sanitizer effectiveness. Severe algae blooms or chemical imbalances that are resistant to treatment can also necessitate a complete drain and refill.
Another reason is severe staining or damage to the pool surface that requires extensive repairs. Draining the pool allows easier access for cleaning, patching, or resurfacing. Furthermore, in some regions, extreme weather events like floods can contaminate pool water with debris, bacteria, and harmful chemicals, making a complete drain and refill the safest option for restoring water quality and preventing health hazards. Choosing to drain your pool shouldn’t be taken lightly and should be thoroughly considered against other options.
How do I prepare my pool for draining?
Before draining your pool, it’s crucial to take precautions to protect the pool’s structure. Firstly, check the groundwater level in your area. High groundwater levels can cause an empty pool shell to “float” or buckle, leading to significant damage. You can usually check this by consulting local authorities or performing a soil test near the pool. If groundwater is high, draining may not be advisable or may require professional intervention.
Secondly, turn off all power to the pool equipment at the breaker. This prevents electrical hazards and protects your pump, filter, and other components from damage while they are not submerged in water. Next, thoroughly clean the pool surface to remove any loose debris, leaves, or algae. This prevents the debris from clogging the drain and allows you to better assess the condition of the pool surface after draining.
What are the different methods for draining a pool?
There are two primary methods for draining a pool: using the pool’s built-in drain and pump system or using a submersible pump. Draining with the pool’s pump requires connecting a backwash hose to the pump’s waste port and setting the multiport valve to the “waste” or “drain” position. This method uses the pool’s existing plumbing but may be slower and require more energy. Check your pump’s manual for specific instructions.
Alternatively, a submersible pump, which is placed directly into the pool, offers a faster and potentially more efficient way to drain. These pumps are available for purchase or rent at most pool supply stores. Simply connect a discharge hose to the pump, place the pump in the deepest part of the pool, and plug it in. Ensure the hose is directed to a suitable drainage area away from your foundation and neighboring properties, in compliance with local regulations.
How do I prevent damage to my pool during draining?
Preventing damage during draining involves careful consideration of the weather and the pool’s structure. Avoid draining your pool during extremely hot and sunny weather, as this can cause the plaster or vinyl liner to crack, shrink, or fade due to rapid drying. Choose a cooler, overcast day or drain during the evening or early morning hours to minimize sun exposure.
Additionally, monitor the pool’s condition as it drains, paying close attention to any signs of cracking or bulging in the walls or floor. If you notice any concerning changes, stop the draining process immediately and consult a pool professional. Consider leaving a small amount of water in the shallow end to help stabilize the structure, particularly if you suspect high groundwater levels.
What should I do after the pool is completely drained?
After the pool is completely drained, it’s the perfect opportunity to thoroughly clean and inspect the pool surface. Remove any remaining debris, scale, or stains with appropriate cleaning products designed for pool surfaces. Inspect for cracks, chips, or other damage that require repair. This is also an ideal time to address any needed resurfacing or liner replacements.
Following the cleaning and inspection, perform any necessary repairs promptly. Patch cracks, repair chipped tiles, or replace damaged fixtures. Once the repairs are complete and have fully cured, prepare the pool for refilling. This might involve applying a sealant or primer, depending on the surface material. Be sure to consult with a pool professional for specific recommendations based on your pool’s type and condition.
How do I refill my pool after draining?
Refilling your pool should be done carefully to minimize the risk of damage or staining. If possible, use a pre-filter on the fill hose to remove sediment and minerals from the water. This will help prevent staining and improve the overall water quality. Start filling the pool slowly, especially in the shallow end, to allow the surface material to rehydrate and prevent air pockets from forming behind the liner.
As the pool fills, monitor the water chemistry closely. Once the pool is full, test the water and adjust the pH, alkalinity, calcium hardness, and sanitizer levels to the recommended ranges. This will help prevent scale formation, corrosion, and other water chemistry problems. Remember, achieving proper water balance is essential for maintaining a healthy and enjoyable pool.
Are there any legal or environmental considerations for draining a pool?
Yes, there are important legal and environmental considerations to keep in mind before draining your pool. Many municipalities have regulations regarding where pool water can be discharged, often prohibiting direct discharge into storm drains due to the chemicals present. Check with your local water authority or environmental agency for specific rules and regulations in your area.
Furthermore, consider the environmental impact of draining a large volume of water. Dechlorinate the water before draining to minimize harm to aquatic life if the water will be released into the environment. This can be done using a dechlorinating agent, which is readily available at pool supply stores. Always dispose of the water responsibly, following local guidelines to protect the environment and avoid potential fines.