How to Drain Water from Your Pool Fast

Draining water from your pool can seem like a simple task, but it requires a bit of preparation and the right equipment to do it efficiently and safely. Whether you need to empty your pool for repairs, cleaning, or seasonal maintenance, understanding the best methods to drain your pool will help you avoid unnecessary complications.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to drain your pool quickly and effectively.

Methods to Drain Water from Your Pool

There are several ways to drain your pool, and the method you choose depends on your pool type, equipment, and how much water you need to remove. Below are the most common methods used to drain pool water.

1. Using the Filter Waste Port (Fastest for Small Amounts)

The quickest method for draining a small amount of water from your pool is through the filter’s waste port. If your pool has a sand filter or DE filter, you can use the backwash hose to siphon water out.

Steps:

• Turn off your pump and connect a backwash hose to the filter's waste port.
• Set your filter to the “waste” setting.
• Turn the pump back on. Water will flow through the skimmers and pump, out through the backwash hose.
• Keep an eye on the water level and stop draining once it drops below the skimmer.

This method is perfect for removing the last few inches of water near the skimmer line.

2. Using the Pump’s Hose Bib (Slower, But Effective)

For pools with built-in hose bibs near the pump, this method works well to drain a larger portion of water without straining your pool’s filtration system.

Steps:

• Turn off the pool pump and attach a garden hose to the hose bib.
• Open the valve and turn the pump on.
• Like the backwash method, monitor the water level to ensure it doesn’t fall below the skimmer.

This approach can take a bit longer due to the smaller diameter of the hose but is ideal for draining water without using the filtration system.

3. Using a Submersible Pump (Best Method)

A submersible pump (also called a sump pump) is the best solution for removing water from any part of your pool, including below the skimmer line. This method is faster and more efficient, especially for larger pools.

Steps:

• Place the submersible pump at the bottom of your pool, near the deep end.
• Connect the pump to a large drainage hose.
• Plug in the pump to begin draining the water.

This method will quickly empty your pool, even removing the remaining water beneath the skimmer. Some sump pumps even allow you to use a larger backwash hose for faster draining.

4. Using Gravity (Most Hands-Free, but Slow)

If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can use gravity to siphon water out of your pool. This method is slower but doesn't require much monitoring.

Steps:

• Submerge a garden hose underwater in your pool, ensuring it’s filled with water.
• Position one end of the hose inside the pool and the other end outside, downhill from the pool.
• Gravity will do the work, and water will begin to siphon out.

This method works best when you have a gentle slope outside the pool and are in no rush to drain the entire pool quickly.

Where Should You Drain the Pool Water?

Proper water disposal is an important part of pool drainage. Always check local regulations to avoid fines or environmental damage.

• Avoid draining into storm drains: Pool water, especially if it contains chemicals, should never be drained into storm drains.
• Sewer cleanout: The best disposal method is to direct the water into your home’s sewer cleanout. This keeps chemicals away from the environment and ensures proper water flow.
• Lawn drainage: If you opt to drain into your yard, be mindful of the potential damage to your lawn from high chemical levels or large volumes of water. Make sure to check with your local municipality before using your yard.

Risks of Completely Draining Your Pool

Completely draining an inground pool can lead to serious risks. Without the weight of water, the pool may "pop" or shift out of place, especially if you live in an area with a high water table or after heavy rainfall. This risk is higher for concrete and vinyl pools.

If draining is necessary for repairs, consider draining only partially and replacing water in batches. If you must drain completely, it’s wise to consult a professional to ensure you don’t cause costly damage to your pool.

Precautions Before Draining Your Pool

Before draining, follow these precautions to ensure the process goes smoothly:

1. Have a Water Disposal Plan: Know where to dispose of the water before you begin. This will prevent issues with flooding and chemical contamination in your yard.
2. Allow Chemicals to Dissipate: To prevent harmful chemicals from affecting your local water supply, neutralize chlorine and test the water before draining.
3. Turn Off Timers and Automatic Equipment: Make sure all timers, including for the pump, heater, and pool lights, are turned off before draining. Dry equipment can overheat and get damaged when exposed to air.
4. Wait for Appropriate Weather: Avoid draining the pool during hot weather (over 85°F or 29°C), as the dry heat can damage the liner and cause cracks or blisters.

How Long Does It Take to Drain a Pool?

The time it takes to drain a pool depends on several factors, such as the pool size, drainage method, and equipment. Using a submersible pump, it typically takes 8 to 14 hours to drain a large pool completely. The refill process will take just as long, so plan accordingly.

Conclusion

Draining your pool doesn’t have to be a stressful or time-consuming process. Whether you’re draining for maintenance, repairs, or seasonal preparation, follow these methods and precautions to ensure the job gets done safely and efficiently. If you’re unsure about draining your pool completely, always consult a professional to avoid damage and costly repairs.