Having a swimming pool in your backyard is an incredible luxury, providing relaxation and entertainment for years. But owning a pool comes with responsibilities, including maintaining its water chemistry, cleaning, and monitoring the water level. A seemingly small problem like a high pool water level can cause significant issues if left unchecked. From malfunctioning equipment to damage to the pool structure and surrounding environment, water level imbalances should never be taken lightly. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore what causes high pool water levels, the risks associated with them, and the step-by-step solutions to bring your pool back to optimal conditions.
Understanding the Right Water Level in a Pool
Before identifying how to solve a high water level, it’s important to understand what the correct level should be. Pools, whether in-ground or above-ground, require proper water balance for filtration systems to work efficiently. The water level should sit about halfway up the skimmer opening. If the water is too low, the pump could draw in air and cause damage. Similarly, if it’s too high, essential components can become compromised.
Why Is the Correct Water Level Crucial?
The water level determines how effectively your pool’s filtration and cleaning systems operate. Skimmers pull water and debris into the filter, enabling better cleanliness. Too high a level can prevent effective skimming, while also reducing the efficiency of the overflow system in pools designed with one. Maintaining the balance helps ensure your pool stays clean, safe, and efficient in operation.
What Causes a Pool Water Level to Rise Too High?
Your pool’s water level can rise for various reasons. Some are environmental, while others stem from mechanical or maintenance problems:
- Heavy Rainfall: One of the most common causes, especially in areas prone to tropical storms or seasonal monsoons.
- Backwashing Mistakes: During backwashing, sometimes too much water is added by accident or a malfunction in the system.
- Automatic Fillers: If you use an automatic pool filler, it might malfunction and continue adding water when it should not.
- Plumbing Issues: Faulty connections or leaky return lines can contribute to elevated water levels unintentionally.
- High Groundwater: In in-ground pools, excessive groundwater pressure can cause water to rise in the pool, particularly after heavy rains or flooding.
Understanding these causes is the first step toward remediation and prevention of excessive pool water levels.
Risks Associated with a High Pool Water Level
Allowing your pool to maintain too high a water level might seem harmless at first glance, but several long-term and immediate risks can arise:
Malfunctioning Equipment
When water surpasses the skimmer intake, there’s a greater risk of water being redirected directly into the filter lines without passing through the skimmer basket. If debris and larger particles aren’t filtered, it can damage your pump and filtration system over time.
Chemical Imbalance
Adding water to the pool can dilute the chemical levels—such as chlorine, pH, alkalinity, and calcium hardness. This can lead to algae growth, cloudy water, and unsafe conditions for swimmers.
Excess Strain on Pool Structure
For in-ground pools, prolonged high water levels—especially if paired with high groundwater—can cause structural issues. Water pressure from the pool’s interior can displace your in-ground pool structure if the hydrostatic balance is disturbed.
Increased Risk of Flooding or Water Damage
If the pool’s surrounding deck is low or not properly sloped, excess water can spill out and damage your property, landscaping, and nearby structures like patios or wooden decking.
Reduced Skimmer Efficiency
Skimmers work best when the water level is at their optimal height. When the level is too high, much of the water isn’t filtered through the skimmer, reducing its overall performance and increasing the chance of algae buildup.
How to Check If Your Pool Level Is Too High
Identifying a high water level is fairly straightforward if you know what to look for.
Visual Inspection
Look at your skimmer. Water should reach about halfway up the skimmer weir (the flapper door). If the water reaches the top or flows over it, that’s a clear sign of excess.
Use a Pool Water Level Indicator
Some pool owners prefer using a water level indicator, a small gauge or tool that floats on the surface and shows whether the level is within the acceptable range.
Monitor Pool Decks and Surrounding Area
If water regularly spills over the edge (even slightly), leaves puddles, or causes the decking to become slippery or damaged, this indicates a persistent high water level issue.
Immediate Steps to Lower the Water Level
Once you’ve confirmed that the water level is too high, there are several methods to address the situation.
Siphoning Water Out
One of the simplest and most cost-effective methods is using a siphon. This requires a garden hose long enough to reach from inside the pool to a lower discharge point, preferably on a slope away from your yard or house.
- Place one end of the hose in the pool and the other end where the water can safely flow off your property.
- You can start the siphoning by sucking the water through the hose or using a hand pump.
- Once the flow begins, water will reduce gradually until the hose is above water level, at which point the flow will stop.
Ensure the discharged water doesn’t pool at your neighbor’s property or near electrical equipment.
Using a Submersible Pump
For a faster and more controlled way to remove water, consider utilizing a submersible pump. These pumps sit directly inside the pool or spa and move the water out at a faster rate than a siphon.
Caution: Be mindful not to drop the pump in a way that could scratch the pool wall or floor. Also, make sure the area where the water discharges doesn’t cause erosion or damage.
Drain Through the Main Drain
For in-ground pools, the main drain may be used in conjunction with your filter’s “drain” setting. However, check your equipment’s manufacturer instructions beforehand, as excessive draining can cause damage or dry your pump if not managed properly.
Managing Pool Equipment During Water Removal
While removing excess water may seem straightforward, it’s crucial to manage pool equipment carefully to prevent damage or inefficiencies.
Turn Off the Chlorinator or Saltwater System
If your pool uses a saltwater generator or automatic chlorine feeder, turning it off during the water draw-down is highly advisable. This prevents these components from running dry or malfunctioning due to low water levels in those systems.
Watch Your Pump Intake Levels
As the water level drops, be conscious not to let it drop below intake lines (such as the main drain). If the pump draws air, it could overheat or cause internal damage.
Verify Skimmer Weir Position
If the water level drops too fast and goes below the skimmer, the skimmer weir may lock in place in an upward position. This can cause mechanical issues or improper seal function when the water level is restored.
Post-Drainage Steps: Restoring Chemical Balance
Once the water level is corrected, the next critical concern is rebalancing the chemicals.
Test Water Chemistry
Use a quality test kit or strips to measure:
- pH levels (ideal range: 7.4–7.6)
- Chlorine (1–3 ppm)
- Total alkalinity (80–120 ppm for concrete pools, 125–175 ppm for vinyl-lined and fiberglass pools)
- Calcium hardness (200–400 ppm)
- Cyanuric Acid (30–50 ppm)
If the readings are outside these levels, consider adjusting them using pool chemicals tailored to each parameter.
Add Stabilizer if Water Was Diluted
If you added or lost water due to rain, your stabilizer levels may have been diluted. This can drastically reduce chlorine efficacy against algae and bacteria.
Shock the Pool After Draining
With the water level fixed and chemicals balanced, shocking the pool is a good preventive step to eradicate any bacteria or algae that might have started to form due to temporary imbalance.
How Do You Prevent High Pool Water Levels?
Avoiding future high water levels begins with understanding environmental conditions and maintaining good equipment.
Use an Automatic Water Leveler
Automatic fillers, such as The Water Stik or Sta-Rite Pro-Fill, monitor and maintain the water level in your pool. If installed correctly and monitored regularly, these systems can prevent overfilling.
Install Tile and Deck Drainage
Many modern pools are equipped with overflow drains or secondary drainage systems. Ensure that yours is not only functional but clear of debris and blockages. This will automatically reduce water levels if they rise too high.
Maintain Proper Sloping Around the Pool
Water that runs off your deck or surrounding ground should naturally flow away from the pool—never toward it after rain. Sloping should be considered during construction, but adjustments can sometimes be made if water accumulation is noticeable long after.
Considerations for Different Pool Types
When dealing with high water levels, the type of pool you own affects the potential solutions and risk levels.
In-Ground vs. Above-Ground Pools
In-ground pools face added dangers like hydrostatic pressure and structural shifts. Excessive high water during heavy rain or snowmelt, especially when groundwater is high, can exert pressure from underneath, possibly causing the pool to “float” or crack.
Above-ground pools are more forgiving in this regard but are generally easier to overfill dramatically. This can pose risks of spilling onto decking, causing slips, or rusting metal components of the pool wall.
Fiberglass vs. Concrete vs. Vinyl Liner Pools
Concrete pools can absorb water over time, so managing internal and external pressure is critical. Fiberglass pools have a stronger one-piece structure but still require a balance of internal and external water pressure. Vinyl-lined pools are especially prone to distortion if the water level fluctuates too much.
Advanced Measures for Persistent High-Level Issues
If recurring high water levels persist regardless of your efforts, consider long-term solutions.
Installing an Overflow Drain System
These drains are often part of spa installations or pool designs in flood-prone regions. They’re typically placed near the coping edge and pipe excess water to a sump or municipal storm drain system.
Backfill Compaction and Waterproofing Adjustments
In-ground pool owners in areas with high water tables may need to improve their backfill compaction and install reliable waterproofing systems around the pool shell to prevent external pressure from forcing water inside.
Smart Pool Sensors for Real-Time Monitoring
Modern smart pool technology can include automated sensors that monitor water levels, chemistry, and even temperature. When set up, these systems can alert your phone or tablet if water levels change suddenly, potentially saving your pool equipment and structure from damage.
Expert Tips from Pool Maintenance Professionals
Even with careful management, an expert’s opinion is invaluable when dealing with persistent pool water problems.
- Inspection Timing: Do monthly checks during peak summer and immediately after storms to ensure no equipment has been affected by high water.
- Seasonal Adjustments: In winter, some pool owners purposefully lower water levels to allow space for rainwater accumulation due to heavy off-season rains.
- Regular Servicing: Have a certified pool professional inspect and test water balance, filtration systems, and drains annually for safety and efficiency.
Conclusion: Stay Proactive, Avoid Costly Repairs
Maintaining a properly balanced water level in your swimming pool isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, functionality, and long-term maintenance savings. By understanding the reasons behind high pool water levels, identifying them early, and taking the correct steps to lower the water, you can prevent equipment damage, chemical imbalances, and even structural risks. Whether you choose simple siphoning or invest in advanced monitoring systems, the key is vigilance and action before small problems turn into costly repairs.
With the outlined steps in this guide, you now have the tools and knowledge to confidently manage high water levels in your pool. Happy swimming!
Why is a high pool water level a problem?
A high pool water level can interfere with the proper operation of your pool’s filtration system. When the water level is too high, it can reduce the skimmer’s effectiveness, leading to poor surface debris removal and unbalanced water chemistry. This may result in cloudy water, increased risk of contamination, and extra strain on your pool equipment, all of which can compromise swimmer safety and comfort.
Additionally, excessively high water levels can cause water to spill over into the surrounding area, potentially damaging pool decks, landscaping, or nearby structures. In some cases, it may even lead to flooding in adjacent parts of your property. Maintaining the correct water level ensures optimal performance of your pool and reduces the chance of costly repairs or environmental damage.
How do I know if my pool water level is too high?
The proper water level for most pools should be between one-third and half of the way up the skimmer opening. If the water extends significantly above the skimmer’s midpoint or reaches the edge of the pool deck, it’s considered too high. Visually inspecting your pool and comparing the water line to these standard guidelines can help you quickly assess the situation.
You may also notice the effects of a high water level through your pool equipment’s performance. Reduced skimming efficiency, water spilling over during heavy use, or uneven water circulation can all indicate that the water level has risen above the recommended height. Checking the water level regularly, especially after heavy rain or snowmelt, helps you spot and correct the issue early.
What are the steps to lower the pool water level?
The easiest and most controlled way to lower your pool water level is by using a submersible pump or your pool’s drainage system. Position the pump at the pool’s deep end and run the hose to a safe drainage area, such as a sewer cleanout or a location far from your home’s foundation. Operate the pump until the water level reaches the recommended point.
Alternatively, if your pool has a dedicated drain at the bottom, you can use that in conjunction with a backwash procedure if you have a sand or DE filter. Always monitor the water level as you drain to avoid lowering it too much, as this can expose the pool’s liner or cause equipment damage. After adjusting the level, test your water chemistry and balance it accordingly.
Can I use the pool’s backwash method to lower the water level?
Yes, backwashing can help lower a high pool water level, especially if your filter system includes a multiport valve with a waste or drain setting. By setting the valve to “waste,” water will be expelled directly from the pool without filtering or recirculating. This method is effective but can use a lot of water and time to achieve the desired drop in level.
It’s important to follow manufacturer instructions when adjusting the multiport valve and to monitor the water level closely during this process. Additionally, local water restrictions or sewer regulations may limit how much water you can discharge directly, so check with your municipality before using this method extensively.
Is it safe to use a garden hose to drain pool water?
Using a garden hose siphon method to drain pool water can be effective, but it’s not the most efficient or safest method. It typically requires manually starting the flow and relies on gravity to drain water out of the pool. You must ensure that the hose outlet is at a lower elevation than the pool water to allow proper flow, and that the discharge point won’t damage landscaping or structures.
However, this method can be time-consuming and may not work well for significant water level reductions. If you do use a hose, be sure not to run it back into the pool area, as it can create a tripping hazard or potential contamination. Always supervise the process and avoid discharging chlorinated water into sensitive environments without proper treatment.
What precautions should I take when draining pool water?
Before draining your pool water, it’s critical to have a designated area for the discharged water to flow. Directing large volumes of chlorinated water onto your lawn or nearby waterways can damage vegetation or violate environmental regulations. If possible, discharge the water into a sanitary sewer line or a designated backwash pit that complies with local guidelines.
Also, never drain the pool completely without professional guidance, as this can cause structural damage, especially in inground pools. Maintaining at least some water in the pool during the draining process helps counteract groundwater pressure from below. Always follow safety procedures and consider consulting a pool professional if you’re unsure about the best draining approach.
When should I consult a professional about high pool water levels?
If you’re experiencing recurring high water levels without an obvious cause, or if your pool has been affected by structural issues such as shifting or cracks, you should consult a professional. A licensed pool technician can identify whether underground water intrusion, improper drainage, or equipment malfunction is contributing to the high water level and prescribe the appropriate repair solutions.
Additionally, in cases where the water level becomes excessively high due to flooding or a plumbing failure, hiring a specialist ensures safe and efficient water removal without additional damage. Professionals can also test the water quality, help restore chemical balance, and provide guidance on preventing future water level problems. Seeking expert help is especially important if you’re not confident in performing the drainage process safely on your own.