The easiest way to drain water from an above ground pool involves using a combination of a garden hose, a submersible pump, or a backwash hose. Here’s a breakdown of methods and steps:
Methods for Draining an Above Ground Pool
There are a few common methods you can use, each with its own set of advantages:
- Using a Garden Hose (Siphon Method): This is the simplest but also the slowest method.
- Using a Submersible Pump: This is the fastest and most efficient method, especially for larger pools.
- Using the Pool's Filter System (Backwash): This method is useful for minor water level adjustments, but not for a complete drain.
Detailed Steps for Each Method
1. Draining with a Garden Hose (Siphon Method)
This method relies on gravity to create a siphon.
- Preparation:
- Get a long garden hose. Make sure it's long enough to reach from the bottom of your pool to the desired drainage area.
- Ensure the drainage area is lower than the water level of your pool.
- Creating the Siphon:
- Submerge the entire hose in the pool, ensuring all the air bubbles are out. You can hold one end underwater with your hand or weight it down.
- While keeping one end submerged, quickly cover the other end with your thumb or hand.
- Move the covered end out of the pool and quickly place it at the desired drainage location.
- Remove your thumb or hand. The water should start flowing.
- Monitoring the Drain: Occasionally check the hose to make sure the siphon is still working and that no air has entered the hose.
2. Draining with a Submersible Pump
This method is faster and more effective, particularly for large pools.
- Preparation:
- Purchase or rent a submersible pump designed for draining pools.
- Attach a garden hose to the pump's outlet. Most pumps have a standard garden hose fitting.
- Place the hose at your desired drainage location.
- Draining Process:
- Submerge the pump in the deepest part of the pool.
- Plug the pump into a grounded electrical outlet.
- Monitor the pump's progress.
- Safety Considerations:
- Never enter the pool while the pump is running.
- Ensure the electrical outlet is GFCI protected to prevent electric shock.
3. Draining Using the Pool Filter's Backwash Function (Partial Drain)
This method isn't ideal for complete draining but is useful for lowering the water level.
- Preparation:
- Attach a backwash hose to the filter system's backwash outlet.
- Position the other end of the hose in a suitable drainage area.
- Backwashing Process:
- Set the filter valve to the "Backwash" position.
- Turn on the pool pump.
- Monitor the water level.
- Turn off the pump and return the valve to the "Filter" position when the desired water level is reached.
- Limitations: This method can only drain the water down to the level of the skimmer or the intake port for the pump.
Important Considerations Before Draining
- Check Local Regulations: Some municipalities have regulations regarding where pool water can be drained due to chemical content.
- Drainage Location: Choose a location that can handle a large volume of water without causing flooding or damage. Avoid draining near your home's foundation or your neighbor's property.
- Pool Liner: Be careful not to damage the pool liner during the draining process, especially with the submersible pump.
- Time of Year: Consider the weather. Draining in extreme heat or cold can damage the pool liner.
