How to Drain a Pool of Any Kind

Pools are perfect for summer fun. They help you beat the heat while also serving as an oasis for relaxation. Unfortunately, when the time comes to drain the pool, fun and relaxation can easily turn into frustration and stress.

Improper drainage can cause serious damage. It can damage the pool itself, especially fiberglass and vinyl pools. It can also damage your property or even your neighbor’s property. 

Luckily, it doesn’t have to be this way! Knowing how to get water out of pool the proper way can help. Simply, taking a few extra precautions and considerations can save you from these very negative consequences.

Pools are a great way to cool off. But, they do require periodic drainage and maintenance.

How to Drain a Pool of Any Kind

The process of how to drain a pool is overall the same for each type of pool. However, there are a few major different steps between draining different types of pools.

• How to Drain an Above-Ground Pool

1. Unplug the pool pump and any other electrical components.
2. Attach a hose to the submersible pump and carefully lower it into the pool. Make sure the hose is long enough to reach the drain point.
3. Plug the pump into the GFCI outlet of the pool. Avoid using extension cords.
4. Check that water is flowing to the drain point. Be sure to check on the pool frequently as it is draining.
   
   

• How to Drain an In-Ground Pool

Draining an in-ground pool begins the same as draining an above-ground pool. Start by following the previous steps, with the pump placed in the deepest part of the pool.

1. Once the water level is so low that the pump cannot drain any more water, turn it off.
2. Break the plaster covering on the pool drain hydrostatic plugs. Use a hammer and screwdriver or a chisel.
3. Use a pair of pliers to unscrew and remove all of the plugs. These plugs may become damaged, so make sure to have replacements available before refilling.
4. Groundwater will flow into the pool. Allow the pump to continue to remove the remaining groundwater.
   
   

• Hire a Professional

If you have the time and right equipment you can drain your pool yourself. However, hiring a professional could be a worthwhile alternative. You’ll know the draining process will happen correctly and you’ll save yourself a lot of time and hassle.

Draining a pool allows you to make repairs, complete maintenance, and improve water quality.

Why Do You Need to Know How to Drain a Pool?

Most pools need to be drained about once every five years. Most commonly, this is due to repairs and maintenance. For example, you may want to install a new pool drain cover that is safer and easier to maintain.

Another common reason to drain your pool is that the water quality has diminished so much that it cannot be fixed. When the pool is drained, you’ll be able to correct the water quality.

Before You Drain Any Pool

Before you drain any pool, it’s critical to consider a few factors.

• Consult local water authority

Many local municipalities have rules about how, when, and where you can drain your pool. If you fail to follow these regulations, you could face expensive fines.

You may be required to drain the pool water through your home’s sewer cleanout line. Alternatively, you may need to send it down your street’s storm drains.

There may also be rules about the water chemical composition of drained water. You may need to make your water chlorine neutral.

You should also check if there are regulations about timing. Many municipalities ban pool drainage during rainy seasons in order to prevent flooding.

• Consider Timing

You should aim to drain your pool in the spring or fall when daytime highs are below 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If your pool liner is not submerged, the summer heat could cause it to blister.

Also, wait for a stretch of dry weather when the water table is low. After a steady, heavy rain or freezing temperatures, the heavy ground could push the empty pool upward, a phenomenon known as pool pop. By avoiding these times, you can prevent expensive damage. 

You should also consider the time necessary to drain your pool. While the pool drains, you will need to check on the pool, hoses, and pump. The process can take up to 14 hours.

Consider completing additional tasks, such as adding or upgrading your pool grates to make your pool area more enjoyable to use.

• Similar tasks

The time when your pool is drained may also be a good time to complete other tasks around your pool area. You can check your pool’s drain and consider a Jonite pool grate. 

You may also want to consider your pool deck drain system. Using high-quality pool deck drains and grates can help elevate the look of your outdoor area, while also making the area safer and easier to maintain.

What’s it Going to Cost?

The cost to drain a pool will be determined by a few factors including the type and size of your pool. You can expect it to cost between $500 and $700 USD for a professional to drain and clean a pool.

Additional costs: Cleaning, Repairs, Pool Chemicals

Cleaning costs will range depending on what part of the pool needs to be cleaned. Pool drain cleaning usually runs between $60 and $125. Acid and chlorine washes are more intense and may run around $300 to $500. A chlorine shock costs around $25 to $50.

Repairs can range greatly depending on what part needs to be repaired and how extensive the damage is. You can save money on future repairs by using high-quality components.

Jonite’s reinforced stone pool grates keep pool decks safe, dry, and enjoyable.

Drain Any Kind of Pool Safely and Effectively

Knowing how to drain a pool of any kind is very important if you want to clean your pool, correct water issues, or complete repairs and maintenance. Doing so safely requires a bit of forethought and planning, but it’s worth it to avoid potential damage.

If you’re ready to drain your pool so you can make changes to your pool drains, contact Jonite for information on reinforced stone pool drain grates.