Why you shouldn't drain your pool?
Keeping water in the pool helps to prevent the liner from drying out, shrinking and cracking. An empty pool is far more prone to liner wear and damage. Additionally, even with a cover, an empty pool is more at risk for damage from debris.
Does draining a pool damage it?
What Are the Risks of Improperly Draining a Pool? First, if the draining is done at the wrong time or under the wrong conditions, you can actually risk damaging your pool structure and liner. All the water from your pool needs to go somewhere when it's drained, and that usually means the ground.
When should I drain my pool water?
Even with proper and regular pool maintenance, it's often necessary to drain your pool — either completely or partially — every 3-5 years. Draining your pool often isn't necessary, especially if you're following a proper and regular maintenance program.
Is it safe to drain pool in summer?
Tom Good, president of Swimming Pool Service and Repair, said that during the summer, it is not wise to drain your pool, especially if the pool has a plaster finish, because plaster is "not going to handle the extreme temperatures."
What are the cons of draining a pool?
Regardless of what type of pool you own, the chances of it incurring some sort of damage once it is emptied of water is likely. For example: Above-ground vinyl liner – once drained, the liner can shrink and possibly tear when it's time to re-fill the pool, especially if it is an older liner.
Is it OK to drain a pool and leave it empty?
Even without the water it's possible that the concrete will start to sag. So even though it's in theory possible to leave the pool empty for months, we at The Complete Backyard only recommend leaving it empty for up to 2 weeks. Once you've drained the concrete pool, have it in mind to refill it as soon as possible.
Does draining a pool ruin the liner?
Draining a pool can damage the pool structure and liner, especially if it is an older liner, and cause expensive repairs. There are easier and better ways to clean and repair a pool. Completely draining a pool should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
How do you safely drain a pool?
Plug in your pump to a GFCI outlet. Turn on the pump and stay with it during the entire draining period. Double-check that the water properly drains throughout the process. Turn off the sump pump when the water is low enough that it no longer pumps out through the hose.
Is it safe to empty a Fibreglass pool?
We're confident that we can safely drain a fiberglass pool if it has a sump pipe and HPB stone backfill. Still, it's best not to drain the pool unless it's absolutely necessary. And you should never do it by yourself.
Should I drain my pool to get rid of algae?
Why should you drain your pool? As mentioned, once your water turns green, you may need to drain your pool as soon as possible. The green color is caused by Algae blooms which happens only when your chlorine is not enough to prevent it.
Should I drain my pool every winter?
If you're doing a partial drain, remember that removing more than one-quarter of the water can cause the sides of the pool to collapse. For a complete pool draining for disassembly, plan to drain and take down the pool on the same weekend. Leaving an above-ground pool standing empty can damage it quickly.
Is it OK to drain an above ground pool?
Drain your water no more than 6 inches below. the bottom of the skimmer if you plan to use a solid. winter cover.
How far can you drain pool?
I. If the pool ever needs to be drained to replace the water or to maintain the plaster, it should never be left empty for more than eight to ten days at the most. More than this may cause the plaster to dry out and crack. Keep your pool full for best results.
Will draining a pool damage the plaster?
Covers prevent evaporation
Having patrons in the water during the day may reduce this effect, but an uncovered pool will still lose water during the night. Place a cover over your pool after hours to block excess heat from the surface of the water.
Should I leave my pool uncovered in summer?
A pool is rather like a fish tank…
Swimming pools don't actually need to ever be drained, which may come as a huge surprise to overzealous pool owners. Even if your pool water is absolutely gross, a thorough cleaning regimen of vacuuming, filtration, and several days of shocking the water, should be sufficient.
Is it better to shock or drain pool?
Main drains are not required in an inground swimming pool, however, they are strongly recommended and can be extremely useful in some circumstances. The advantages of main drains are to give you the ability to drain the water from your pool without the use of a sump pump. This is useful when replacing your pool liner.
Do all pools need a drain?
Inground pools made of concrete or gunite are susceptible to popping out of the ground if drainage is not done properly. If there has been a surplus of rain recently or your pool is located in a wet area, it is best not to try and drain the pool yourself at all.
How many times should you drain your pool?
Chlorine abuse is a major cause of liner degradation. A high concentration of chlorine will attack the liner, bleach it, cause it to “alligator”, and make the vinyl deteriorate rapidly.
Is it safe to drain a concrete pool?
The liner will already have holes cut into it for the skimmer and returns and there is virtually zero chance that the new pool orientation will line up properly to these existing cutouts in the liner. Even moving the same pool can result in these holes no longer lining up well enough.
Does chlorine eat pool liner?
Unfortunately, it's not recommended to reuse a pool liner. Not only are they meant to be used one, but also they get brittle and shrink when they're taken out of the water. Trying to reinstall a cover that's been out of the water won't get you the same quality as if you were to purchase a new one.
Why can't you reuse a pool liner?
The first choice for draining swimming pool water should be to drain pool water into the sanitary sewer. In-ground pools typically have a sanitary sewer drainage inlet near the pool equipment. Pools and spas not plumbed with a sanitary sewer drainage inlet can be drained to a sanitary sewer line plumbed to the home.
Can you reuse a pool liner after draining?
The causes may vary but include improper installation, water pressure, or sand backfill. Although sand backfilling is very common in the pool installation process, it may create problems in the future when it mixes with water and becomes liquified.
Where is the best place to drain pool water?
Too much chlorine in your fibreglass pool can cause numerous issues. It causes corrosion of pool equipment, metal piping, and other nearby structures. It can cause damage to the fibreglass liners.
What can damage a fiberglass pool?
The good news is that saltwater systems are perfect for fiberglass pools. What's more, since salt is a gentler type of water cleanser, there is less risk of skin irritation. Saltwater systems have been a top choice for fiberglass pool owners for years.
Does chlorine damage fiberglass pools?
Whether mild or severe, it isn't recommended. Significant amounts of swimming pool algae welcome a breeding ground of harmful bacteria that feed on algae. These bacteria pose health risks to swimmers, most commonly resulting in a skin rash. It can also cause various bacterial infections of the ears or eyes.
Is salt water bad for fiberglass pools?
Most people assume that when their pool is green or filled with debris, the easiest thing to do is drain it. That's usually not the case. It's risky to drain ANY type of pool—concrete, vinyl liner, or fiberglass.
Is it OK to swim in a pool with algae?
If the pool freezes it can be seriously damaged and even destroyed. You probably don't want to run the pool heaters, if you even have them, all winter. If you live in an area that doesn't experience serious freezing, like I did in southern Florida, you can get away with not draining.
What naturally kills algae in a pool?
Although it may seem scary to leave water in a pool during freezing temperatures, you can actually damage your pool more by removing too much water. Your water should only be drained so it sits just below the skimmer and jets.
Can you partially drain a fiberglass pool?
Drain the pool about four to six inches below the skimmer then add a skimmer cover. Blow up the air pillow and place it in the middle of your pool. Put on the pool cover and secure with winter cover clips. Remove the ladder and other deck equipment.
What happens if you don't drain your pool for winter?
Pools are designed to hold water; without the weight of the water pressure keeping them in place, they're at risk of significant damage, including “pop out” or collapse. Empty pools can compromise structural integrity, damage walls, floor or liner, and even impact surrounding decking.
How much water should be left in pool for winter?
Draining and refilling your pool is an essential part of maintaining its quality. Even with proper maintenance and care, your pool will still need to be drained and refilled on occasion. Luckily, draining and refilling your pool is a simple process that only requires a few basic pieces of equipment.
How far down should I drain my pool for winter?
From my reading (and the Pool School here), above ground pools should have the water drained to ~6" below the skimmer (or return). If I do either of these, it seems like I won't be leaving enough water in the pool.
Will pool walls collapse without water?
However, if the pool has a stone or Pebble Tec finish, it is pretty safe to drain a pool during the summer months, Good said.
Can I drain my pool and refill it?
Draining a pool can take up to 14 hours, depending on the size, so be sure to drain it on a day when you have sufficient free time. You need to be home to check on the pool, the hoses, and the pump frequently. Do not let the pump run dry or it can become damaged.
How far down should I drain my above ground pool?
Regardless of what type of pool you own, the chances of it incurring some sort of damage once it is emptied of water is likely. For example: Above-ground vinyl liner – once drained, the liner can shrink and possibly tear when it's time to re-fill the pool, especially if it is an older liner.
Can I drain my pool in the summer?
Remove the pool light and tippers from the pump before draining the pool. Avoid using the pool pump. It's going to suck air into the suction line and ultimately damage your pump. We advise you to rent or buy a submersible pump and use it to drain the pool water.
How long should I drain my pool?
Pool pros suggest 85 degrees is the best temperature to drain a pool. In-ground pools can blister or crack when drained in high temperatures.
What are the cons of draining a pool?
Using a pool cover overnight can reduce evaporation. Plus, the cover will trap accumulated moisture, and it'll naturally go back into your pool. You'll be rewarded with a more consistent water level and maybe even a lower water bill.
What precautions should be taken when draining a pool?
In high summer it may be necessary to remove the pool cover (particularly at night when the air temperature drops) for the pool water to cool naturally. The cover should not be continually left on for more than 7 days continuously. Pool covers are very effective at reducing chemical usage.
What temperature should I drain my pool?
Although it's not recommended for a major storm, you can use a pool cover for lighter sprinklings, or moderate rain that doesn't involve any severe wind to protect your water. Remember, the rain is acidic and is out to get your chlorine.
Should you cover pool every night?
If the “excessive algae” is all just suspended in the water most of it will be removed by draining the water. If the algae is clinging to the walls you should wash it off with the garden hose as the water level drops so that it does not dry.
Is it OK to leave pool cover off overnight?
Draining a pool can damage the pool structure and liner, especially if it is an older liner, and cause expensive repairs. There are easier and better ways to clean and repair a pool. Completely draining a pool should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
Should I cover pool when it rains?
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I SHOCK MY POOL? Shocking your pool regularly will help to keep the water clean and free of contaminants. You should aim to shock your pool about once a week, with the additional shock after heavy use. Some tell-tale signs that your pool needs to be shocked are cloudy, foamy, green, or odourous water.
Will draining a pool get rid of algae?
In most cases, your pool can even handle rain from most tropical depressions and hurricanes. If your pool is full after a storm or heavy rainfall, you don't need to take drastic steps such as emptying your pool. If you do, the hydrostatic pressure can cause your pool to come out of the ground.
Does draining a pool ruin the liner?
If one drain is blocked, the suction is able to shift to the second drain allowing swimmer to swim both freely and safely. For additional resources on pool plumbing check out our article on routing & setting up your equipment pad here!
Should you shock your pool every day?
Timeframe – Never keep your pool drained for more than a day or two. This can cause the ground surrounding your pool's foundation to shift and change, which can cause extensive damage to your pool and the area around it.
Do you need to drain a pool in heavy rain?
Can too much chlorine ruin the pool liner?
Why do pools need 2 drains?
What eats chlorine in a pool?
Is it safe to drain a pool?
If the pool ever needs to be drained to replace the water or to maintain the plaster, it should never be left empty for more than eight to ten days at the most. More than this may cause the plaster to dry out and crack. Keep your pool full for best results.
Should I drain my pool every winter?
Why should you drain your pool? As mentioned, once your water turns green, you may need to drain your pool as soon as possible. The green color is caused by Algae blooms which happens only when your chlorine is not enough to prevent it.