How to Drain Above Ground Pool: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Tools & Supplies Needed

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Quick Answer

The most efficient way to drain an above ground pool is using a submersible pump, which can empty a typical 24-foot round pool in 4-6 hours. You can also use the gravity drain method through the pool's drain plug or create a siphon, though these methods take significantly longer.

Step-by-Step Draining Methods

Method 1: Submersible Pump (Recommended)

1. Turn off all pool equipment - Shut down the filter system, heater, and any automatic cleaners. Disconnect power to prevent damage when water levels drop.
2. Choose pump placement - Position your submersible pump in the deepest part of the pool. A 1/3 HP pump can move 2,000-3,000 gallons per hour, making it ideal for most above ground pools.
3. Connect discharge hose - Attach a garden hose or larger diameter discharge hose to the pump outlet. Ensure the hose reaches your desired drainage area and slopes downward to maintain flow.
4. Check local drainage regulations - Verify where you can legally discharge pool water. Many areas prohibit draining into storm drains due to chlorine content.
5. Start the pump - Plug in the submersible pump and monitor the drainage process. Most pumps have automatic shut-off features when water levels get too low.
6. Monitor progress - Check every hour to ensure proper drainage and pump operation. Remove any debris that might clog the pump intake.
7. Manual water removal - When water levels drop below the pump's minimum operating depth (usually 2-3 inches), use a wet/dry vacuum or manual bailing to remove remaining water.

Method 2: Gravity Drain Method

1. Locate the drain plug - Find your pool's drain plug, typically located on the pool wall near the bottom. Not all above ground pools have this feature.
2. Prepare drainage area - Ensure the area where water will flow can handle the volume and won't cause flooding or erosion issues.
3. Remove the plug carefully - Unscrew or pull the drain plug. Water will begin flowing immediately, so be prepared for the rush.
4. Control flow rate - Some drain plugs allow partial opening to control flow rate. Start slowly to manage water direction.
5. Monitor continuously - This method can take 8-12 hours for complete drainage. Check periodically to ensure proper flow and no blockages.

Method 3: Siphon Method

1. Get a long garden hose - You'll need a hose long enough to reach from the pool bottom to your drainage area, with several feet to spare.
2. Fill the hose completely - Submerge the entire hose in the pool until it's full of water with no air bubbles.
3. Create the siphon - Keep one end underwater in the pool while quickly moving the other end to the drainage area, keeping it lower than the pool water level.
4. Start water flow - Once positioned correctly, water should begin flowing automatically. The siphon will continue until water levels reach the submerged hose end.
5. Maintain the siphon - Ensure the discharge end stays lower than the pool water level and that no air enters the hose system.

Important Safety and Legal Considerations

Pool water disposal regulations vary by location. Many municipalities prohibit draining chlorinated pool water into storm drains because chlorine can harm aquatic life. Check with your local water authority before draining.

Dechlorination may be required. If your total chlorine level exceeds 0.1 ppm, you may need to dechlorinate before disposal. Use sodium thiosulfate at a rate of 1 ounce per 3,000 gallons to neutralize 1 ppm of chlorine.

Structural considerations for above ground pools: Never leave a vinyl liner pool empty for extended periods, especially in cold weather. The liner can shrink and become difficult to reinstall. If you must leave it empty, remove the liner entirely.

Time Estimates and Equipment Specifications

Drainage times vary significantly based on method and pool size:

• Submersible pump (1/3 HP): 18,000-gallon pool drains in 6-9 hours
• Submersible pump (1/2 HP): Same pool drains in 4-6 hours
• Gravity drain: 8-12 hours depending on drain size and elevation difference
• Siphon method: 12-24 hours depending on hose diameter and elevation difference

For pump selection, calculate your pool volume first. A 24-foot round pool with 52-inch walls holds approximately 18,000 gallons when filled to 42 inches. Choose a pump that can handle this volume within your desired timeframe.

Troubleshooting Common Drainage Problems

Pump stops working: Check for clogs in the intake screen, ensure adequate water depth for operation, and verify electrical connections remain dry and secure.

Slow drainage: Increase pump capacity, check for discharge hose kinks or clogs, and ensure the discharge point is as low as possible relative to the pool.

Siphon breaks: Air has entered the system. Restart the siphon process, ensuring the hose is completely filled with water before positioning.

Remember to clean and store your drainage equipment properly after use. Submersible pumps should be flushed with clean water and stored in a dry location to prevent damage and extend their lifespan.