A pool can be a wonderful addition to your home. You and your family will have fun swimming, or you can use it for exercise if you prefer. The water in the pool must stay up to date with chemicals, so it doesn't turn green and gross people out when they swim in it. We recommend draining the pool every five years or so to do this. Here, we will give you step-by-step instructions on draining a swimming pool safely and quickly.
1. Rent Either a Submersible Pump or a Portable Pump from a Local Hardware Store
There are two ways to drain a pool. You can either use a submersible pump or have someone rent a portable pump for the day. A submersible pump is installed in the skimmer box, located near the edge of the pool. There needs to be an opening in your wall so that the water can flow through. A submersible pump will require your pool to be turned off not to overflow the skimmer box. If you would rather, you can rent a portable pump for the day and have it dropped off on your property with plenty of time to spare before the water needs to be removed.
2. Run the Pump to Drain the Pool Water
Once the pump is dropped off, you will need to hook it up. Make sure that you have your extension cord ready to go so that it can reach the nearest electrical outlet. Lower the pump into the water until the strainer part of it is submerged, but not too far, or else you might damage the pump. Turn on the pool filter and then the pump to get it started if needed. Once you have done that, leave the pool pump on throughout the day while any water is removed from the pool. Some debris may come through during this process, but usually, there isn't too much of it.
3. Clean up the Debris on the Floor of the Pool
Once the water has been removed from the pool, it will become necessary to clean up any debris falling to the bottom. It is good to do this with a leaf net or skimmer net. Make sure that you have done this before turning back on your pool filter and pump for the night. Otherwise, there might be a big mess on the bottom of the pool. This is something that you can check on the next day to make sure it was done correctly.
4. Power Wash or Acid Wash Surfaces as Needed
After you have drained the pool, it might be necessary to power wash any surfaces. This is done when they are starting to deteriorate or when they are covered in algae. You can rent a power washer for this purpose, but remember that you will need access to an electrical outlet like the one used with the pump. Another option is to use muriatic acid. A professional should handle this and shouldn't be attempted unless you know what you are doing.
5. Refill with Water
Once all of the debris has been cleaned up, you are ready to refill the pool. This is best done with a hose that can hook directly into your skimmer box for easy access while it fills up. Once the water level reaches the bottom of your pool ladder, please turn on your pump and filter system and check it out before getting in. It will be a good idea to have someone around just if any problems arise. This way, you can get any help you might need quickly and easily.
6. Add Startup Chemicals to Convert the Tap Water to Pool Water
Once the pool has been filled up, you will need to add some chemicals. This is done to turn the tap water into the pool water. Most of these are contained in small packets, which you can easily open with your hands by rubbing them together. Just follow the instructions on the pack for accurate measurements and then pour it into your skimmer box. The pool water is now ready for you to swim in. This process should be done weekly during the summer so that your pool stays clean and inviting.
Conclusion
Draining the pool water is not something that you should attempt without help. Not only can it be dangerous, but some professionals have the equipment to do it quickly and efficiently. This way, you can save money and avoid headaches simultaneously. Follow these steps to ensure that your pool draining goes smoothly every time.
