Can I Completely Drain My Inground Pool in Order to Clean It?

One of our readers recently submitted this question: Can I completely drain my inground pool in order to clean it?

Yes, it is possible to completely drain an inground pool to clean it; however, it is generally advised to do so only as a last resort or under the guidance of a professional, as it can lead to a number of potential issues.

Here are a few things you should be wary of:

Floating or Popping

If your pool was constructed in an area with a high groundwater table, the pressure from the water in the soil could cause the pool to “float” or “pop out” of the ground when the pool is drained, leading to serious damage.

Damage to the Liner

In vinyl liner pools, draining the pool can cause the liner to shrink and become brittle, leading to potential tears or damage to the liner.

Damage to the Plaster or Tiles

For concrete or plaster pools, draining the pool can cause the plaster to crack from the sudden change in temperature and lack of pressure from the water.

Here’s what you should do instead:

Rather than fully draining the pool, consider doing a partial drain and refill. This will reduce the water level low enough to allow cleaning without completely removing all of the water.

If you absolutely have to drain your pool:

Check Ground Water Level

Hire a professional to check the groundwater level in your area. If the ground water is high, you may need to install a well point system to remove water from the ground to prevent floating.

Prepare for Refilling

Have a source of water ready to refill your pool as quickly as possible, such as a nearby source of high flow water or a water truck.

Summarizing everything up: Fully draining a pool should be your last resort due to the potential risks. Regular maintenance and cleaning should prevent the need for such drastic measures. If you feel it is necessary, please consult a pool professional to guide you through the process and to prevent possible mishaps.