A swimming pool is a space that allows relaxation and fun. However, not many people know what goes into maintaining the cleanliness of a pool. The area around it may be looking clean and well kept, the swimming pool grating looking great and the water as cool as can be, but if the swimming pool has not been drained for years, it may be time to drain the pool entirely.
This article explores the process of draining a swimming pool. With this information, you will know when it is time to drain a swimming pool and how best it should be done depending on the type of swimming pool you have.
When Should You Drain Your Swimming Pool?
When it Accumulates a High TDS
Over time, your pool water accumulates a high amount of total dissolved solids (TDS). Together with other contaminants, leaves, and dirt that have accumulated over the years, it may reach a point where you can no longer filter the pool water. In this case, you may need to change the water, which requires pool drainage.
When it Needs Cleaning
Sure enough, you clean your swimming pool on a weekly or monthly basis. At this time, you probably utilize a vacuum. However, the swimming pool accumulates high amounts of calcium and other metals that stain the pool. The stains do not just affect the aesthetics but can affect the equipment and surfaces as well. Replacing them can be costly. At this point, you can drain the pool.
When it Needs Repair
Your swimming pool holds gallons of water in it for years. Therefore, the surfaces and inner liners of vinyl pools may need to be repaired when they start to bubble and tear. To fix these components, you have to drain your swimming pool.
When Hurricanes and Tropical Storms are Approaching.
Normally, the swimming pool is equipped with features such as pool grating to help collect overflow water. However, when these natural calamities are about to happen, you may need to prevent an overflow by draining water from the pool.
Draining the Pool
How you drain your pool largely depends on the type of filter you have. However, the process usually starts with turning off the pump. Below are further explanations.
Cartridge Filter
If you have a cartridge filter, you can drain the pool using a drain plug. You will need to turn the pump off then unscrew the drain plug on the filter’s back. The next step will be to turn the pump on and run the water until it reaches the point at which you will drain it out. When this is done, you should shut the pump off again and put the plug back.
Alternatively, you can drain it using the drain valve. In this case, draining will involve turning off the pump then rotating the valve between the filter and pump to prevent water from reaching the filter. Once you turn the pump on, water evacuates from the opening. When you have drained enough water, you shut off the pump and turn the valve back to its original position to let water pass through the filter.
DE Filter
If you have a DE Filter, you will begin by going to the breaker box and shutting the pump. You will then engage the multiport valve by turning it clockwise until you get to the ‘Waste’ option. You will set the pump back on, and when enough water is out of the pool, turn it off again. Rotate the valve again in clockwise motion until you get it back to the ‘Filter’ option and then turn the pump back on.
Sand Filter
If you have a sand filter, you will need to turn the pump off, and then ensure that your backwash hose is in an approved draining area such as the yard. Next, you will rotate the valve in a clockwise motion until you reach the ‘Waste’ option and then turn the pump back on. When enough water is out of the pool, you will need to turn the pump off again. Rotate the valve back to the ‘Filter option and pick the backwash hose up for further water drainage and then roll the hose back up.
The pool water you are draining is contaminated with chemicals and can have detrimental effects when mishandled. This is why you must not discharge the water after consulting municipal authorities and through sanitary sewer systems only.
The Importance of Drain Grates
Swimming pool overflow grating plays a role in improving the hygiene and sanitation of the swimming pool area. Also, they prevent slipping accidents, which can be quite common around the pool area. Also, they collect overflow water and make it comfortable to walk around the pool.
As you drain your swimming pool, ensure that your pool grating meets safety and hygiene standards as well.
