Seamless Above Ground Pool Draining

Draining an above-ground pool can seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and tools, it’s a manageable DIY project. Whether you’re preparing your pool for winter storage, upgrading to a more permanent in-ground option, or simply need to refresh the water after prolonged neglect, understanding the proper draining techniques is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from gathering essential equipment to navigating local regulations and executing a flawless drain, ensuring your pool remains in top condition.

There are several compelling reasons why you might need to drain your above-ground pool. Perhaps the most common reason is to prepare it for the colder months, protecting it from ice damage and extending its lifespan. Another scenario might be a significant upgrade, where you’re replacing your existing structure or transitioning to an in-ground pool. Sometimes, despite best efforts, pool water can become so unbalanced or contaminated that chemical treatment is no longer effective. In such cases, a complete drain and thorough cleaning are the best course of action to restore healthy swimming conditions. Whatever your motivation, draining your pool effectively and safely is key to maintaining your investment and ensuring environmental responsibility.

Essential Tools and Materials for Draining Your Above-Ground Pool

Before you embark on the draining process, having the right equipment on hand will make the job much smoother and more efficient. The specific tools you’ll need may vary slightly depending on your chosen draining method, but this list covers the most common and versatile items.

Long Garden Hose: This is a fundamental tool for any draining method. Ensure it’s long enough to comfortably reach from your pool to your designated drainage point without stretching or kinks. A longer hose offers more flexibility in choosing where to direct the water, especially if you need to reach a distant storm drain or a specific area of your yard.
Swimming Pool Cover Pump or Submersible Sump Pump: These powerful pumps are designed to move large volumes of water quickly. A submersible pump, often used to remove water from pool covers, is highly effective for draining above-ground pools. Similarly, a submersible sump pump can be repurposed for this task, offering rapid water removal. These pumps are particularly useful for minimizing manual effort and speeding up the process.
Hose Drain Adapter: Many modern above-ground pools come equipped with a built-in drain valve, making the process significantly easier. If your pool has one, you’ll likely need a specific hose adapter that connects the pool’s drain valve to your garden hose. Always check your pool’s manufacturer instructions or consult a pool supply store for the correct adapter for your model.
Utility Bucket: As the water level drops, pumps and siphons become less effective. A sturdy utility bucket with a comfortable handle will be indispensable for bailing out the final few inches of water from the pool bottom. Choose a size that is manageable when full, as water is surprisingly heavy (over eight pounds per gallon).
Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum: For those who prefer to avoid manual scooping, a wet/dry shop vacuum is an excellent alternative for removing the last remnants of water from the pool liner. Its powerful suction can efficiently collect shallow water, leaving the pool floor nearly dry and ready for cleaning.
Personal Protective Gear: While not strictly a draining tool, safety should always be a priority. A swimsuit and sunscreen are practical for any prolonged work around a pool. Additionally, consider waterproof gloves to protect your hands from pool chemicals and sturdy, non-slip footwear to prevent accidental slips on wet surfaces.
Dechlorination Tablets (Optional but Recommended): If you plan to drain chlorinated water onto your lawn or into storm drains, dechlorination tablets can neutralize the chlorine, making the water safer for plants and the environment.

Comprehensive Guide to Draining Your Above-Ground Pool

Pre-Draining Planning: Think Before You Drain

Before any water leaves your pool, careful planning is paramount. Rushing the process can lead to significant issues, from structural damage to your pool to potential environmental fines. Take the time to consider these critical aspects:

Partial vs. Complete Draining: In many climates, winterizing a pool typically only requires a partial drain, often just enough to bring the water level below the skimmer and return jets. If you’re performing a partial drain, remember that removing more than one-quarter of the pool’s water can exert immense pressure on the pool walls, potentially causing them to collapse or distort. Always consult your pool’s manufacturer guidelines for specific partial draining recommendations.
Timing for Full Drains: If you’re undertaking a complete pool draining for disassembly or major cleaning, plan to complete the draining and take down the pool on the same weekend. Leaving an above-ground pool standing empty for an extended period can quickly lead to structural damage. Without the outward pressure of water, the liner can become brittle, crack, or suffer UV damage, and the pool walls themselves can warp or collapse, especially in windy conditions.
Local Regulations and Environmental Considerations: This is perhaps the most critical planning step. Before allowing chlorinated or saltwater to run into your garden, a municipal drain, or your main clean-out drain, you must check with local authorities. Contact your municipal water department, environmental protection agency, or homeowner’s association to understand local ordinances regarding pool water disposal. Chlorinated water, even in small amounts, can harm your lawn, garden plants, and local ecosystems. It can also introduce harmful chemicals into the public water supply or storm sewer systems, leading to significant environmental impact and potential legal penalties. If direct draining is not permitted, you may need to dechlorinate the water first or even hire a professional pool service for compliant water removal.
Choosing a Drainage Point: Select a location for your discharged water carefully. Options include a storm drain (if permitted and dechlorinated), a sanitary sewer (usually requiring a direct connection to your home’s cleanout, and often requiring permission), or a specific area of your lawn or garden. If draining onto your property, ensure the area can absorb the large volume of water without causing erosion or flooding. Avoid draining near your home’s foundation, your neighbor’s property, or any natural waterways.
Weather Conditions: Choose a dry, calm day for draining. Wind can cause an empty pool liner to flap and tear, and rain can refill a partially drained pool, wasting your efforts.

Step-by-Step Draining Methods for Your Above-Ground Pool

Once you’ve completed your planning, it’s time to choose the best method for draining your pool. Each method has its advantages and is suited for different situations.

Method 1: Draining with a Submersible Pool Cover Pump

This is often the fastest and most efficient method, especially for larger pools, as it relies on mechanical power to move water.

Connect the Hose: Securely attach one end of your long garden hose to the discharge port of the submersible pool cover pump. Ensure the connection is tight to prevent leaks.
Position the Pump: Carefully place the pump in the deepest part of the pool, typically the center of the floor. Ensure it is stable and won’t tip over as the water level drops.
Direct the Hose: Route the other end of the garden hose to your designated drainage point. Double-check that this location complies with local regulations and is safe for water discharge.
Activate the Pump: Plug in the pump and turn it on. Water should immediately begin flowing out through the hose.
Monitor the Process: Do not leave the pump unattended. Periodically check that the pump is working correctly, the hose isn’t kinked, and water is draining as it should. As the water level drops, you may need to reposition the pump to ensure it continues to draw water efficiently.
Handle the Remaining Water: The pump will become less effective once the water level is very low (the last few inches). At this point, turn off and remove the pump. Use a utility bucket to scoop out the remaining water, or employ your wet/dry shop vacuum to thoroughly dry the pool bottom. This final step is crucial for preparing the pool for cleaning and disassembly.

Pros: Fast, requires minimal manual effort, effective for large volumes.
Cons: Requires electricity, the pump can clog with debris if not monitored, less effective for the final few inches.

Method 2: Draining with a Garden Hose Siphon

This is the classic DIY drainage method, relying on gravity and atmospheric pressure. It’s a great option if you don’t have a pump or prefer a low-tech approach.

There are two primary ways to initiate a siphon:

Option A: Fully Submerging the Hose

Submerge the Hose: Place the entire length of a long garden hose into the pool, ensuring both ends are completely underwater.
Remove Air Bubbles: Systematically push down sections of the hose, working from one end to the other, to force out all air bubbles. The goal is to completely fill the hose with water, displacing all the air. You may need to get into the pool to do this effectively.
Seal One End: While keeping one end of the hose submerged in the pool, place your finger or hand tightly over the other end, creating a vacuum seal.
Position and Release: Quickly remove the sealed end from the pool and carry it to your chosen drainage spot. Critically, this drainage spot must be physically lower than the water level in the pool. Once the sealed end is in position and lower than the pool’s waterline, release your finger or hand. The water should immediately begin flowing out due to the siphon effect.

Option B: Using a Water Spigot

Connect to Spigot: Attach one end of your garden hose to an outdoor water spigot (like a garden tap).
Submerge Other End: Place the other end of the hose deep into the pool water.
Fill the Hose: Turn on the spigot for a minute or two, allowing the hose to completely fill with water. You should see bubbles stop rising from the submerged end.
Initiate Siphon: Turn off the spigot, then quickly detach the hose from the spigot. Carry this end to your drainage location, ensuring it is lower than the pool’s water level, and let go. The water should start flowing out, creating a siphon.

For both siphon options, once the water level gets too low for the siphon to function effectively, you’ll need to remove the remaining few inches with a utility bucket or wet/dry shop vacuum, similar to the pump method.

Pros: No electricity required, simple, cost-effective.
Cons: Slower than a pump, requires precise execution to start, less effective at very low water levels, requires the drainage point to be lower than the pool.

Method 3: Draining with a Garden Hose and Built-in Pool Drain

If your above-ground pool features a built-in drain valve, this method is typically the most straightforward and designed for ease of use.

Locate the Drain Valve: Identify the drain valve on the exterior of your pool. Many pools also have a corresponding cover on the interior of the liner that needs to be opened or removed.
Attach the Adapter: If your pool came with a specific drain adapter for a hose, attach it securely to the drain valve. If not, you may need to purchase one from a pool supply store that matches your pool model.
Connect the Hose: Attach your garden hose to the drain adapter.
Direct the Water: Lead the other end of the garden hose to your approved drainage location, ensuring it’s lower than the pool to facilitate gravity drainage.
Open the Drain: Open the drain valve on the outside of the pool (and remove any internal cover if present). Water will begin to flow out.
Monitor and Finish: Keep an eye on the draining process. This method relies on gravity, so it might be slower than a pump. As with other methods, use a utility bucket or shop vac to remove the final few inches of water once the flow significantly slows or stops.

Pros: Very convenient if your pool has a built-in drain, clean setup.
Cons: Draining speed depends on the drain’s diameter and elevation difference, still requires manual removal of the last bit of water.

After the Pool is Drained: Cleaning, Disassembly, and Storage

Once the last drops of water are out, your work isn’t quite finished. Proper post-draining procedures are essential for maintaining your pool’s longevity and ensuring it’s ready for its next season.

Dismantle Promptly: As stressed earlier, an empty above-ground pool can be vulnerable. Begin the disassembly process as soon as possible after all the water is removed.
Detach Hoses and Pumps: Disconnect all hoses, pumps, filters, and other accessories. Clean these components according to their manufacturer’s instructions and store them properly.
Thorough Cleaning: This is a crucial step to prevent mold, mildew, and stubborn stains.
- Interior: For smaller pools, a spray cleaner specifically designed for pool liners, combined with a soft brush or cloth, works well. For larger pools, use a mild soapy solution (dish soap is often acceptable, but check liner compatibility) and a soft mop or sponge. Pay close attention to the waterline, where grime tends to accumulate. Scrub away any algae residue or dirt. Avoid abrasive cleaners or stiff brushes that could damage the liner.
- Exterior: Don’t forget the outside walls and supports. Wipe them down to remove dirt, dust, and any chemical splashes.
Ensure Complete Dryness: Before folding or storing any part of your pool, it is absolutely vital that all components are completely dry. Even a small amount of moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can rot the liner, create unpleasant odors, and cause discoloration. Allow the pool liner and frame components to air dry thoroughly in the sun. If necessary, use towels or a shop vac to remove any lingering dampness.
Disassembly and Folding According to Manufacturer Instructions: Each above-ground pool model has specific instructions for disassembly and folding. Following these guidelines is critical to prevent damage. Pay attention to how the liner was originally folded, as this often helps prevent creasing and cracking during storage. Label components if necessary to simplify reassembly next season.
Proper Storage: Store your disassembled pool components in a cool, dry, and pest-free environment. A shed, garage, or even a large storage bin can work. Protect the liner from extreme temperatures, sharp objects, and rodents that could chew through the material.
Inspection for Damage: As you disassemble and clean, take the opportunity to inspect all components for any signs of wear, tear, rust, or damage. Note any repairs that might be needed before the next swimming season. Addressing minor issues now can prevent major problems later.

By diligently following these steps, you can ensure that your above-ground pool remains a source of enjoyment for many seasons to come, whether you’re simply refreshing its water or putting it away for the long winter nap.