How to Empty In-ground Swimming Pools

Even though in-ground pools can be emptied completely for liner replacement, floor or wall repair, they should not be left without water for long periods or damage can result. Unlike above-ground pools with removable vinyl liners, the vinyl liner in the in-ground pool will shrink and move out of place as the water is removed, which will require proper reinstallation if and when you refill the pool with water.

Things You'll Need

• Submersible sump pump
• Garden hose

Instructions

1. Check with your water authority as to where you drain the pool water. Some states and cities have codes in place for draining pools into a clean-out sewer drain, but not all locations have these drains available. It is important that you know where to drain the water before starting.

2. Purchase or rent a submersible sump pump. You will need the pump for a minimum of 12 hours to drain an in-ground pool.

3. Hook up a garden hose to the sump pump. Run the other end of the hose to the clean-out drain or to the location recommended by the water authority.

4. Plug the sump pump into a power outlet. Place the sump pump into the deep end of the pool, about 6 inches under the surface of the water.

5. Watch the water level and sump pump. Lower the pump in the pool as the water level drops down. Continue doing this until the pool is drained.

Tips & Warnings

• Never leave the sump pump running without being in the water or the motor can burn out.

• Sun exposure to plaster walls without water in the pool can cause damage to the walls.

• If the pool has a vinyl liner, you may need to have a professional reinstall the liner.

References

• Las Vegas Valley Water District: Pool Draining
• Southern Nevada Water Authority: How to Drain a Pool or Spa