Whether you’re preparing for pool maintenance, closing your pool for winter, or encountering issues with structural damage, you may find yourself needing to remove water from your swimming pool. It’s a task that might seem straightforward but requires the right tools, safety practices, and understanding of the best methods available. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best and safest ways to empty a pool effectively, without damaging the structure or risking environmental harm.
We’ll walk you through various methods, compare their pros and cons, and offer tips on how to choose the best one depending on your situation and reasons for draining. This guide is tailored to help you make an informed, responsible decision when considering pool drainage.
Reasons You Might Need to Drain a Pool
Before diving into methods, it’s important to understand why one might need to drain a pool:
- Seasonal pool closure
- Emergency overflow or flooding
- Repair or renovation of the pool’s structure, filter, or pump
- Replacing or fixing damaged pool liners
- Chemical imbalance that’s difficult to correct without significant dilution
- End-of-season cleanout
Identifying the reason why you’re draining your pool helps determine the appropriate method and equipment to use. Draining for maintenance often requires partial draining, while total removal might be necessary for repairs.
Evaluating the Best Methods to Drain a Pool
There are several conventional and efficient techniques for draining a pool. Each method has unique features, and choosing one depends on your equipment access, time constraints, and environmental considerations.
1. Using a Submersible Pump
Submersible pumps are one of the most effective ways to evacuate water from your pool. These pumps are waterproof and can be placed directly into your pool to drain water safely and efficiently. They operate using electric-powered impellers to push water through a hose.
How to Use a Submersible Pump
- Clear debris from pool water.
- Place the pump inside the pool ensuring it is fully submerged.
- Attach the discharge hose securely to the pump’s outlet—typically, hose clamps help ensure a watertight seal.
- Make sure the hose reaches a legal drainage point (e.g., municipal storm drain, lawn with proper runoff).
- Plug in and turn on the pump, monitoring progress regularly.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fast and efficient | Higher cost or rental |
| Effective in all depths | Need a power source |
| Works in tandem with filtration systems | Requires safe disposal of water |
2. Pool Drain Outlets and Waste Line Flushing
Many modern inground pools come equipped with multi-port sand or DE filters that have a “waste” setting. When the multi-port valve is set to “waste,” water is pumped directly out and away from the pool without passing through the filter.
Steps to Using Waste Mode
- Ensure your filter system has a waste line option.
- Turn off the pump before adjusting valve settings.
- Switch the multi-port valve to “Waste” position.
- Ensure the waste hose leads to an appropriate drainage system and is properly secured.
- Restart the pump and begin draining until the desired water level is achieved.
Important Notes:
- Do not drain the pool completely using this method unless you’re experienced — the pump is not designed for continuous extended use on the “Waste” setting.
- The pool water may need to be dechlorinated before disposal, especially for outdoor areas, to prevent harm to plants or local storm systems.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Uses existing filtration system | May damage the pump if used excessively |
| Easy for minor water level drops | Time-consuming for large volumes |
| No additional equipment needed | Not safe to drain completely without caution |
3. Using a Sump Pump
If you don’t have a submersible pool pump, a sump pump may be a viable option, especially if your pool is located near a basement or utility area where they are more commonly used.
Key Considerations:
- Not as efficient as a pool submersible pump
- Requires positioning outside the pool, which can lead to difficulties in suction when the water level drops
- Must be monitored closely to avoid overheating
Recommended Usage
Used primarily for emergency situations like overflow due to excessive rainfall.
4. Garden Hose Siphon Method (for Small Amounts or Emergency Use)
This simple method does not require electric pumps but relies on gravity and a vacuum to move water from one location to another.
How to Siphon Pool Water:
- Place one end of the hose into the pool.
- Submerge the hose in water fully to fill it and eliminate air pockets.
- Cover both ends to retain water, then place the other end lower than the pool (e.g., to a drainage point on a hill or away from structures).
- Release both ends, allowing the siphon to start naturally through gravity.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Inexpensive if you already have a hose | Very slow, especially for large volumes |
| Simple setup | Not effective if there is no elevation drop |
| Useful for light adjustments | Labor-intensive and unpredictable |
Environmental and Safety Guidelines for Pool Water Disposal
Draining pool water is not simply a matter of redirecting it somewhere — it’s about doing it responsibly. Pool water typically contains chemicals like chlorine or bromine, which are harmful to local ecosystems and municipal drainage systems.
Chlorine Removal Before Draining
Before any drainage, test the chlorine levels using a test strip or digital reader. Chlorinated water can harm local plants and contaminate drain systems.
To neutralize chlorine, use:
- Thiosulfate-based chlorine removers
- Natural dechlorination by exposing the pool to sunlight for a few days (weather-dependent)
Understanding Local Regulations
Check your municipal and county regulations on water disposal. Some cities:
- Require pool water to be discharged into storm drains or designated systems
- Prohibit backyard runoff that might enter stormwater systems untreated
- Enforce fines for non-compliance
A general best practice is to ensure all water is dechlorinated and pH-neutral before letting it flow outside.
Avoid Overloading the Drainage System
If the water is draining onto lawns or public streets:
- Ensure the volume is low enough to not cause localized flooding.
- Avoid saturating the soil around the pool’s base to prevent potential shifting or structural damage.
How to Safely Drain an Inground Pool
Draining an inground pool — whether partially or fully — comes with special precautions due to the risk of structural damage.
Risk of “Floating” (Lifting) the Pool
In areas with a high water table (like those with underground aquifers or in flood-prone zones), an empty pool can literally float out of the ground due to hydrostatic pressure from the surrounding groundwater. This is a very real and expensive problem.
Preventative Steps:
- Consult local pool professionals before draining completely.
- Only drain in appropriate seasons — avoid winter in areas with freezing temperatures.
- Keep the water table in mind: professionals may install hydrostatic relief valves before emptying.
Recommended Water Level for Draining
Generally, partial draining is safer for inground pools:
- Drain water to just below the skimmer
- Never let the water level drop below the pool’s return jets unless required for repairs
How to Drain an Above-Ground Pool
Draining an above-ground pool is generally less risky than inground, but still requires thought and planning to avoid environmental impact or damage to the pool structure.
Draining for Relocation or Storage
Owners may want to empty above-ground pools to put them away during colder months, or to relocate them.
Recommendations:
- Use submersible pumps or garden hoses for safe drainage
- Choose soft, even ground for draining to avoid sinkholes or lawn damage
- Never drain directly next to the pool to avoid destabilization of the wall supports or corrosion of metal parts
Choosing the Best Method for You: A Practical Approach
Now that we’ve defined the main methods and reviewed safety and structural considerations, how do you choose the best one for your unique situation?
1. Time Efficiency
For quick removal of a significant amount of water, submersible pumps are your best bet. If you’re removing a couple of inches for chemical balance adjustment, waste mode on your filter works best.
2. Cost and Equipment Access
If cost is a major constraint, siphoning may be the only viable route (unless a sump pump is already owned). If renting or purchasing is acceptable, a submersible pump offers the most value over time, especially for recurring pool maintenance.
3. Purpose of Draining
- Maintenance and light level adjustments – waste mode, siphon hoses
- Emergency draining – sump pump or high-flow submersible pump
- Structural repairs – professional submersible pump use under expert guidance, especially for inground pools
4. Environmental and Legal Compliance
Always test and neutralize pool water before draining directly into soil or storm systems. In regions with strict irrigation rules, consult your local water authority or professional pool technician before draining.
Expert Tips to Safely Drain a Pool (and Avoid Common Mistakes)
Even the best-prepared pool owners face pitfalls. Avoid these common issues:
- Over-draining an inground pool: This can lead to dangerous structural floating or cracking if improperly timed.
- Using improper drainage areas: Avoid driveways, patios, or around foundations where standing water might cause erosion, mold, or slip hazards.
- Failing to test chlorine levels: Untreated water can harm local plant life and violate disposal regulations.
- Neglecting safety precautions: Always have an electrical GFCI or surge protector in place when using electric pumps around water.
In Summary: The Best Practices for Pool Draining
To wrap up this guide, the best way to get water out of your pool depends on your specific:
- Pool type (inground or above-ground)
- Draining purpose (maintenance, repairs, or seasonal closure)
- Access to tools (submersible pump, hoses, etc.)
- Environmental and legal requirements in your area
For most modern pool owners with access to equipment, using a submersible pump is the top recommendation — safe, scalable, and fast. Always balance efficiency and practicality with environmental and structural safety when emptying your pool. And remember: when draining completely or for the first time, professional consultation can prevent expensive mistakes.
Final Takeaway
Draining your pool doesn’t have to be a daunting or high-risk task. Equip yourself with the right tools, educate yourself on best practices for your specific kind of pool, and adhere to local laws and environmental standards. Whether you’re dealing with pool problems in summer or winterizing your pool, the guidance in this article ensures that you’re prepared with the best ways to get water out of your pool—efficiently, responsibly, and safely.
How can I drain water from my pool using a submersible pump?
A submersible pump is one of the most efficient ways to remove water from a pool. Place the pump inside the pool, ensuring it sits on the bottom to extract as much water as possible. Connect the discharge hose to the pump and run it to a suitable drainage area, such as a sewer cleanout or a location far from your home’s foundation. Once everything is set up, plug the pump into a grounded electrical outlet and let it run until the desired water level is achieved.
Using a submersible pump allows for faster water removal compared to manual methods. However, it’s important to monitor the water level to avoid running the pump dry, which can damage the motor. Also, ensure that the discharge water doesn’t flood your yard, damage landscaping, or flow into your neighbor’s property. Follow local regulations regarding pool water disposal to avoid penalties or disputes.
What precautions should I take when draining my pool with a garden hose?
Draining your pool with a garden hose is a simple and cost-effective method, but it requires careful planning. Start by ensuring the hose is long enough to reach a safe drainage spot, and use a siphon method to start the flow of water. Submerge one end of the hose in the pool and suck water through the other end or use a siphon pump to initiate the flow. Once water begins to flow, secure the hose so it remains in place and doesn’t kink or move during the process.
Keep in mind that this method can take several hours or even days, depending on the pool size and water volume. Avoid allowing the water to pool around your house’s foundation or damage nearby plants, as chlorine or salt content can harm vegetation and concrete. Additionally, using the hose during daylight hours can increase evaporation, possibly requiring adjustments in water loss. Always check local regulations regarding pool water runoff before using a garden hose.
Can I use my pool filter system to lower the water level?
Yes, many pool filter systems can be used to drain water from your pool, especially systems with a “waste” setting on the multiport valve. Switch the valve to “waste,” which sends water directly out through the backwash line, bypassing the filter. Attach a hose to the backwash port and direct the water to a safe drainage area, ensuring it flows away from your pool equipment and home foundation.
Using the filter system for draining is a controlled method and best suited for partial water removal. However, it uses a considerable amount of water and energy, so it’s important to monitor the process continuously. Avoid running the pump for too long without water, as this can cause overheating and damage. Always consult your filter system’s manual and return the valve to the correct setting once you’re done.
How do I drain a pool safely without damaging the structure?
Draining a pool requires caution to prevent damage to the structure, especially in areas with high water tables. Begin by consulting a professional if your pool is in-ground, as improperly draining the pool can cause it to “pop out” of the ground due to pressure from underground water. In some cases, leaving a few inches of water in the pool can help maintain balance and prevent structural issues during maintenance or repairs.
If draining completely is necessary, professionals may install dewatering systems or use hydrostatic relief valves. For above-ground pools, make sure the walls remain supported during draining to prevent collapse or warping. Never drain your pool during heavy rain or immediately after a heavy rain, as excess groundwater can interfere with the draining process and lead to structural problems.
What is the best time to drain my pool?
The best time to drain your pool is during dry weather when the groundwater level is low, typically in late spring or early summer. Draining during dry weather helps avoid complications caused by external water pressure, especially in in-ground pools. Avoid draining your pool right after heavy rainfall or during periods of high humidity, as this can make the process more difficult and increase the risk of structural damage.
Additionally, choose a time when you can oversee the entire process, ensuring that water is being discharged properly and safely. Early mornings or weekday afternoons are often good times, as municipal drainage systems are typically less stressed during these periods. Scheduling the drain during cooler parts of the day may also reduce evaporation and water waste.
How do I dispose of pool water safely to protect the environment?
Proper disposal of pool water is crucial to protect local waterways, plants, and wildlife. Before draining, test and adjust the water’s chemical levels to ensure chlorine, pH, and other chemical concentrations are within safe limits for discharge. Many jurisdictions require chlorine levels to be near zero and pH between 6.5 and 8.5 before releasing the water into storm drains or vegetated areas.
The best disposal method is to discharge the water into a sanitary sewer system, if allowed by local regulations. If you must drain into your yard, ensure the water flows to a grassy or landscaped area away from water sources, septic tanks, or neighboring properties. Avoid sending large volumes of water into storm drains, as it can carry contaminants into natural bodies of water, negatively affecting ecosystems and water quality.
What tools or equipment do I need to effectively drain a pool?
Draining a pool requires some essential tools and equipment depending on the method used. Common items include a submersible pump, a garden hose, siphon pump or primer, a backwash hose (if using the filter system), and a voltmeter or GFCI outlet for electrical safety. You may also need a bucket or scrub brush if preparing the pool for cleaning or maintenance during drainage. Having the right equipment ensures efficient and safe removal of water.
Some pool owners may also need adapters, extension cords, or clamps to secure hoses and prevent leaks or disconnections during the process. If you’re draining for chemical balancing or repair, having a test kit and safety gear like gloves and goggles is also recommended. Purchasing or renting equipment depends on the frequency of pool draining and the size of the pool, with larger pools often requiring more powerful pumps and longer hose lengths for proper water disposal.