How to Drain a Pool Safely: A Comprehensive Guide for Pool Owners
Maintaining a pool often means tackling tough tasks, and learning how to empty a pool is one of them. Whether it's for repairs, cleaning, or seasonal maintenance, emptying your pool should be handled with extreme care. Below, we break down the risks, steps, and tools you’ll need to ensure the job is done safely.
The Risks of Draining Your Pool
Before you drain your pool, it’s important to understand the risks associated with each type of pool construction. Always check weather conditions and groundwater levels before proceeding.
- Aboveground Pools: Avoid draining completely unless necessary, as the liner may shrink or tear. If the pool must be emptied, refill it promptly to prevent liner damage. If the pool has been empty for a while, you'll likely need a new liner.
- Fibreglass Pools: Draining a fibreglass pool yourself is strongly discouraged due to the high risk of damage. These lighter weight pools are at risk of "popping out" due to groundwater pressure, especially during the rainy season. Only drain under professional supervision and ensure proper equipment like hydrostatic relief valves are in place.
- In-ground Concrete Pools: Like fibreglass pools, in extreme cases, draining can cause these pools to float due to high groundwater levels. This can result in severe structural damage.
Key Safety Tip:
Consult a professional before draining any type of pool to avoid potential damage.
Steps to Drain a Concrete or Gunite Pool
Please note that due to the specific nature and requirements of fibreglass and above-ground pools, we are only providing steps for in-ground concrete or gunite pools.
- Turn off and disconnect any electrical equipment, including the pool pump and filter.
- If your pool has hydrostatic relief valves, open them as you begin to drain the pool. This will help prevent the pool from popping out of the ground due to groundwater pressure.
- If your pool has a bottom drain, remove its cover as soon as the pool is empty.
- If the last 30cm of water doesn’t drain out on its own, be prepared with a sump pump to remove this remaining water quickly, allowing you to access the bottom drain.
- Monitor the groundwater and ensure there is a plan to handle it as the pool empties. If necessary, insert a 3-6 foot pipe into the valve and run a hose through the pipe. Attach a pump to the hose to draw groundwater from beneath the pool. Check the surrounding area to direct water away from the pool.
Recommended Products and Collections
Venturi Multipurpose Submersible Water Pump
Why Choose Direct Pool Supplies?
With 11 stores and 40+ pool technicians across Australia, we provide professional advice, service, and reliable pool products to ensure your pool stays in perfect condition. Whether you need advice on how to empty a pool safely, or you're looking for high-quality products, we’ve got you covered.
Visit us today at a store near you, or book a visit from one of our Pool Technicians.