Knowledge Builders

how do i install a drain in my pool

by Allan Jacobson MD Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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STEPS FOR INSTALLING A MAIN DRAIN

  • Step
  • 1- Prepare the Main Drain. I’m making this the first step because it is a very important one. The main drain must...
  • Step
  • 2 Find the Center of the Pool. In reality, you can install a main drain anywhere at the bottom of the pool, but...
  • Step
  • 3 Set the Main Drain. Now that you have found the center of the pool, it’s time to dig...

To install the main drains into a vinyl pool, first remove the cover and face plate off of each main drain pot, and tape over the opening, covering the faceplate screw holes with duct tape. There is a 2″ plug included with each main drain you will use that to plug the bottom hole in each main drain.Dec 23, 2013

Full Answer

What are the dangers of draining a pool?

This results in problems such as:

  • Cloudiness
  • Surface staining
  • Scaling
  • Hard water
  • Algae growth
  • Irritated skin and eyes
  • Increased bacteria
  • Accelerated wear on pool surfaces

Do I really have to drain my Pool for winter?

Spring can be a good option, because the fresh water will then be ready for summer swimming. Fall can work, too, but most professionals do not recommend letting your pool remain empty over the winter, so you will need to at least partially refill it. The single most important reason to drain your pool is to deal with TDS levels.

How to drain your pool using your filter system?

  • Turn the pump off.
  • Roll backwash hose out into the yard or approved draining area.
  • Rotate the multiport valve on the top or side in a clockwise direction to the “Waste” position.
  • Turn the pump back on.
  • After you get the correct amount of water out of your swimming pool, turn the pump back off.

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How to drain a pool without a pump?

If you have two hoses with a shut-off valve, you can apply these steps:

  • Choose a drainage location lower than the height of the pool, as above.
  • Submerge one end of the first hose into the pool and secure it in place. ...
  • Place the other end of the first hose into the drainage area.
  • Screw on the shut-off valve on the first hose and ensure that it’s open.

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How do you install a drain pipe around a pool?

2:446:00Pool Deck, Drain Pipe, How To Install - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipRemember to work backwards. In your trench. It's always easier dig a few feet. Then you come backMoreRemember to work backwards. In your trench. It's always easier dig a few feet. Then you come back use your body weight. And just scrape it clean. And you're usually gonna be right at the proper depth.

How do you install a center drain in an above ground pool?

0:303:58Center pool drain for Intex pools makes your life a lot easier - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's just a little bit easier installation. And I've got a coupling here for adjustment. - okay myMoreIt's just a little bit easier installation. And I've got a coupling here for adjustment. - okay my angle quite right. And how I will show you more once you get the pool cut out and lay it on top.

How do you install a drain on a plastic pool?

2:385:44Install Garden Hose Drain in Kiddie Pool - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd attach a hose to i'm going to attach this to the pool it's fairly simple i'm just going to cut aMoreAnd attach a hose to i'm going to attach this to the pool it's fairly simple i'm just going to cut a hole in the pool the diameter of the bulkhead. Put it in attach my pieces.

Do you need a drain in the bottom of inground pool?

Main drains are not required in an inground swimming pool, however, they are strongly recommended and can be extremely useful in some circumstances. The advantages of main drains are to give you the ability to drain the water from your pool without the use of a sump pump. This is useful when replacing your pool liner.

Can you add a drain to above ground pool?

2:149:30Maindrain Pros and Cons for your Above Ground Pool - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd probably the biggest Pro of why people put a main drain in an above-ground pool. Let me explainMoreAnd probably the biggest Pro of why people put a main drain in an above-ground pool. Let me explain this the way an above-ground pool works is you you have your skimmer at the top.

How do you hook up a main drain in an inground pool?

0:582:32How do I winterize my main drain line? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd into the suction port. Turn the blower on and wait for the bubbles to emerge in the main drain.MoreAnd into the suction port. Turn the blower on and wait for the bubbles to emerge in the main drain. Let that continue for 30 seconds or so and with the blower still running close the valve.

How do you put a drain in a kiddie pool for ducks?

0:384:19How to make a drain for duck pool Easy - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou're gonna take this side right here. And you're going to just twist it on the bulkhead. Make sureMoreYou're gonna take this side right here. And you're going to just twist it on the bulkhead. Make sure it's very tight. All right there you go.

How do you install a plug in a baby pool?

0:041:44kiddie pool plug - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo get a plug. That's no plug find a spot down at the bottom that's there trace it out take any kindMoreTo get a plug. That's no plug find a spot down at the bottom that's there trace it out take any kind of knife whatever just make sure it's sharp and slowly start to cut that circle out and fine-tune.

How do you drain a pool with a garden hose?

0:443:18How to quickly get a siphon going to remove water from your pool cover ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd we're gonna kind of just put a couple threads on little ho spigot. And then we're gonna turn theMoreAnd we're gonna kind of just put a couple threads on little ho spigot. And then we're gonna turn the hose on. Until water begins to flow out this end. We're gonna keep this end up in the air above.

How many drains should a pool have?

two main drainsEven more importantly, it mandated that all public pools and newly built residential pools should have two main drains at least three feet apart.

Does a swimming pool need a drain?

Most in-ground pools will have to be drained and refilled at some point. But cleaning should not be the reason to do it. Pools will need to be drained and refilled every 5-7 years on average, or if there is a major necessary repair. Otherwise, avoid draining your pool if at all possible.

Where does pool main drain go?

The main drains are usually located on the lowest point in the pool, so the entire pool surface slants toward them. Most of the dirt and debris that sinks exits the pool through these drains.

How do you drain an above ground main drain pool?

5:238:14How to DRAIN an ABOVE GROUND POOL (Even Without A Pump!)YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPlace that end of the hose on the ground. And then turn off your spigot. This should create a siphonMorePlace that end of the hose on the ground. And then turn off your spigot. This should create a siphon at this point. And water should be draining from your pool out of the hose.

How do I drain the bottom of my Intex pool?

0:371:39Draining the Intex UltraFrame - Quick and Easy - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd have the liner holding the pool down with the hose down at the bottom of the pool. So it's goingMoreAnd have the liner holding the pool down with the hose down at the bottom of the pool. So it's going to tree in the wireless pool pretty quickly lot quicker than the half inch hose method.

What is drain at bottom of pool for?

The main drain for a pool is a suction port that should be located at the deepest point on the pool floor. A main drain is responsible for aiding in the circulation and filtration of the pool water. Having a properly working and dedicated main drain line can also allow you to fully drain your pool if necessary.

Where should I set the main drain in an oval pool?

For ovals, I recommend setting the main drain in the center of the radius opposite of where the skimmer opening is placed.

What does it mean to have a main drain in an above ground pool?

Having a main drain in your above-ground pool means that the pump will have two ways to get unfiltered water from the pool – the skimmer and the main drain.

Why do inground pools have drains?

The biggest is that a main drain gives the pool great overall circulation, which can be lacking with many above grounds. The other great reason to get a main drain is that it will help keep the pool clean. Learn more about main drains and above ground pools here.

Do pool drains leak?

Main drains typically don’t leak, but they will get blamed for leaking almost every time. All pools will leak at some point. That is a fact. When an above-ground pool has a leak, people will think it is from one thing or another. When the pool has a main drain in it, they will almost always think it’s leaking there.

Can you bury a stubbed up drain pipe?

Once the “stub bed-up” pipe is glued, you can now bury the pipe that is in the ground. Continue to use the torpedo level on top of the main drain to make sure it stays level while burying the pipe. When burying the pipe, make sure to pack dirt firmly under and around it.

How long does it take for a pool to drain?

On average, the drain alone can take between 8 and 14 hours. This, of course, depends on your pool size and drain rate produced by your pump.

When Should You Drain A Swimming Pool?

Draining a pool should always be a last resort, so be absolutely certain you’ve exhausted all avenues when it comes to water balancing or repairing broken areas of the pool.

Why drain a pool with green water?

Issues like green pool water, high levels of calcium or cyanuric acid in the pool may require a partial drain to dilute the water. This isn’t half as labor intensive or costly as a full drain. Additionally, you may still be able to rectify some of these water issues through the addition of certain chemicals.

How to reduce pool fill time?

Using a hose connected to a backyard spigot, lay it into the pool and turn on the water. If you can use more than one spigot and hose simultaneously, you’ll significantly reduce your fill time.

Why do pool lights shatter?

Pool lights will shatter if they’re left on when water isn’t present, and the pump can take on air which will damage it.

When is the best time to drain a pool?

The best time to do a drain is in weather under 85°F, and if possible, during the cooler months. The end of pool season (September/October) is popular for this reason.

Why do pools fade?

Due to the amount of harsh chemicals and sunlight, the painted finish on these pools will eventually begin to fade and need a fresh coat.

How long does it take to drain a 25,000 gallon pool?

If you're pumping at 30 gallons/minute, or 1,800 gallons/hour, and you have a 25,000 gallon (94,635.3 L) pool, it will take roughly 14 hours to drain the pool.

Where to drain water in a house?

That leaves you two options of where to drain the water: Directly into the clean out. This is usually a 3 to 4 inch (7.6 to 10.2 cm) plastic pipe on your property, usually outside a bathroom or the kitchen, with a screw cap on it which leads directly into the sewer. The city will reuse this water.

How to get a pool to be empty?

1. Go to a home improvement store and rent a submersible sump pump. Sump pumps can be rented for about $36/24 hours. Do this early in the day so your pool is empty before dark. Your rental should include rubber fire hoses in 50 feet (15.2 m) lengths. Two should be enough for most homeowner, but check to make sure the pool is not more than 100 feet ...

How far down do hoses go in a pool?

Some hoses will go down about 3 feet (0.9 m) into the clean out before hitting something; make sure to lodge it in properly. Watch your water disappear, monitoring the discharge carefully. The time it takes to drain your pool water will depend on the municipality laws, the pump speed, and the total size of the pool.

How to measure pool width?

Width is the same if measured at the backside of the pool along the edge.

Why won't my pool pop up?

The swimming pool will not pop-up out of the ground because the pool was put in the ground when installed. The only way the pool can come up out the ground only if you remove it out of the groud.

What is the best way to remove rust from a pool?

Calcium, Lime, and Rust remover, also known as CLR, usually works pretty well. Work at the tougher buildups with a putty knife, being careful not to damage the lining of the pool. Lesser buildups can usually be dispatched with rubber gloves, a scrubbing pad, and the aforementioned CLR.

How long does it take to drain an inground pool?

Draining a pool can be a pretty tough job because it takes really long to do. It’s a pretty tough job that will take you more than 10 hours ...

What happens when you drain a pool?

You see, when you drain your pool, it will face hydrostatic pressure which will push some force on the pool wall and floor. This force will damage your pool walls. So, if your pool walls or floors are not that strong then hydrostatic pressure may damage it.

What to do if there is algae on the wall?

If there is algae or other similar substance on the wall, use a hose to spray them down as the water lowers.

Can a regular pool pump take water out?

From there, the regular pump won’t be able to take water out anymore. For that purpose, you need to use a small cover pump to drain out the remaining water. Those are the steps to drain your pool if your skimmer valve and the main drain are separated.

Can you drain a pool with a skimmer?

Once the skimmer is plugged with the expansion, you can turn on the pump and completely drain your pool.

Can you drain a pool out of concrete?

But if it’s made out of strong material like concrete, then draining shouldn’t be a problem. Now, if your pool is made out of vinyl material, then you need to avoid pool draining as a whole because the pressure will kill the material. If your pool is made out of fiberglass, then you can drain the pool but not as often.

Is It Safe To Drain My Pool?

Before we start, there’s this little issue that we’d like to clear up first. A lot of pool owners have a concern as to whether it is actually safe to drain the pool or not.

Do you need to install a pool drain line?

The majority of pool owners install two main drains on the deep end of the pool. So, is it compulsory to install two main drain lines? Well, although highly recommended , you don’t have to install the main drains in your pool. However, if you have a vinyl pool, you might consider installing the main drains. They can help you empty the pool efficiently when planning to replace your liner. When you have a pool main drain, you won’t have to use a sump pump to drain water out of the pool. Besides, these main drains assist in filtering the pool water. As a result, they keep your pool clean at all times.

Do you need a main drain for a pool?

Main drains in your pool are useful in maintaining a clean pool. Nonetheless, it is not compulsory to install a pool main drain. Your pool can survive without them. However, if you desire to have sparkling pool water, you’d instead install two pool skimmers in place of the main drains. The skimmers would foster proper circulation and filtration of pool water. Alternatively, consider installing the main drains. They are not only useful in filtering the pool but also emptying the pool during major repairs. Ultimately, consult your pool contractor before you disregard installing a pool main drain.

How long should I drain my pool?

My cap? Make sure it’s no longer than one week. Go ahead and follow the checklist below to make sure you’re not in over your head when you do start to drain your pool.

Why Would You Need to Drain a Swimming Pool?

Since draining your pool is an event that should only really be necessary every few years, there are only a few situations that require it. If the below doesn’t apply to you, think twice about whether this is really a task you need to do. Hey, I’m all for saving you time and money whenever I can—and hello, this is one of those cases.

How to prevent a pool from popping up?

To take extra measures to avoid the pool pop up, make sure your drainage hose is long enough to reach the sewer cleanout (or wherever your local authority asks you to drain your water). And just in case any other drainage problems occur, direct the drainage hose downhill from the pool.

How hot should a pool drain be during a heat wave?

Make sure your empty pool is never left sitting in heat about 85 degrees Fahrenheit, 29 degrees Celsius. 4. After Your Chemical Levels Are Down.

Why is it bad to drain a pool?

If you were ever curious about the absolute worst time to drain your pool, this is it. Because the rain has recently sunk into your yard, there is more pressure on the sides of your pool, and an increased risk that the ground will push the pool to pop out as the water empties.

Why does my pool pop up?

Plus, your yard is not an option, and not just because you don’t want chemically-treated water going into your grass. Pool pop ups happen most frequently when there is pressure underground around your pool. Introduce water to the ground near your pool and you’re probably going to regret it.

Why do you add sanitizer to pool water?

Let’s say your water’s chemical balance has gotten so out of hand that you’re ready to let it go and start anew. That makes sense, and it happens to everyone. Sure, your water has probably been sitting in your pool for quite some time—but that’s why we add sanitizer like chlorine and other chemicals.

How to drain pool water out of cartridge filter?

1. Using the Drain Plug. Shut off the pump. Go to the back of the filter and unscrew the drain plug. Turn the pump back on and let the water run until it reaches the point where you want to drain the water out.

Why drain water during a hurricane?

If you know that a large tropical storm or hurricane is approaching, you may also want to drain some water to prevent overflow.

How to get water out of a filter?

Shut the pump off and rotate the valve so that it block s the water going to the filter. Turn the pump on and the water will come out of the opening. When you get to the point where you've taken out enough water, turn the pump off and turn the 3-way valve back to the regular position.

Where to roll backwash hose?

Roll backwash hose out into the yard or approved draining area.

Where to shut off pump?

Manually shut the pump off at the breaker box.

Can you drain a pool with TDS?

In cases where your water has a high level of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), a Pinch A Penny expert may recommend that you drain some water from your pool and add fresh water. If you know that a large tropical storm or hurricane is approaching, you may also want to drain some water to prevent overflow.

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Step 1 - Plan

Step 2 – Dig A Trench

  • You will need to dig a deep trench. This will be for your water flow from the drain into your yard and away. You want to have the trench end away from the swimming pool. Be mindful of your neighbors when you determine where to send your drain. While digging the trench, be sure to grade it so as to move the water away from the drain. Again, remember to keep the pipes below …
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Step 3 – Measure

  • Measure the length of the trench to determine how much PVC piping you will need for the job. If you can find it, it may be a good idea to buy a pipe that has a few drain holes in it. This will help to spread out the water as it drains and you won’t have all your water draining at the end of the line.
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Step 4 – Line The Trench

  • Before laying the piping in the trench you will need to line it with pea or other gravel. This will aid in the draining process. Lay your PVC piping over the gravel.
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Step 5 – Attach to The Drain Cover

  • You may need to cut a hole in your cement or your pavers to install the drain cover. Using an elbow angle under the drain cover, attach the tubing to the drain pipe. Fill in any cement or pavers you had to remove for installation. You are now ready to fill the trench back in with soil and enjoy your pool.
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1.Videos of How Do I install a Drain In My Pool

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