How to Drain Your Pool Without a Submersible Pump

How to Effectively Drain Your Pool Without a Submersible Pump

A swimming pool is an excellent way to keep children entertained and active during the summer months, in addition to being a refreshing escape from the heat after a long day. However, maintaining a pool can often turn into a daunting task, and the challenges don’t end when summer does. Draining your pool at the end of the season can be particularly tricky, especially if you lack a submersible pump to expedite the process. If you find yourself in need of alternatives, let’s explore how to drain a pool without a submersible pump.

Methods for Emptying a Pool Without a Submersible Pump

Whether you’re closing up your pool at the end of summer or prepping it for the new season, most people rely on a submersible pump to remove water efficiently. However, there are various effective methods to drain your swimming pool without one.

Draining Above Ground, Easy Set-Up Pools

Above ground, easy set-up pools have surged in popularity due to their affordability and straightforward maintenance. One of the significant advantages of these pools is how easily they can be drained, whether the water has turned murky or you simply want to store the pool for winter.

To drain an above ground, easy set-up pool such as the Intex without a submersible pump, follow these steps:

Step 1: Unscrew the cap from the external drain valve located at the bottom of the pool, typically situated directly below the pump.
Step 2: Securely attach a hose to the drain to ensure a tight fit.
Step 3: Direct the hose toward a ditch or another location capable of handling a large volume of water.
Step 4: Remove the plug from the interior bottom of the pool corresponding to the drain.
Step 5: Allow several hours for the water to drain completely.

Note: It’s wise to periodically check on the draining process to clear away any leaves or debris that might obstruct the drain.

Draining Above Ground or In-Ground Pools

If you own a steel-frame or aluminum frame above ground pool, or an in-ground pool that lacks a drainage hole, you can still empty it without a submersible pump, though it will require a bit more effort. One of the most effective methods is to use multiple hoses to siphon the water out. The more hoses you employ, the faster the process will be. This method can take up to 12 hours to complete.

Here’s how to drain an above ground or in-ground swimming pool using hoses:

Step 1: Fully submerge a hose in your pool, ensuring both ends are submerged and the hose is filled with water.
Step 2: Leave one end of the hose in the center of the pool (you may need to weigh it down) and remove the other end.
Step 3: Position the exposed end outside the pool in an area that can handle significant water drainage.
Step 4: The siphoning effect will continue as long as the submerged end remains underwater.

Note: Monitor the draining to ensure you don’t flood any specific area of your yard and that the hose remains submerged and free from clogs.

How to Remove the Last Residual Water from Your Pool

For many, removing the bulk of the water from a pool is straightforward, especially for those with above-ground pools featuring a bottom drain. However, these pools typically don’t drain completely, and a submersible pump is usually required to eliminate the remaining water. So, how can you effectively remove that last bit of water without one? Let’s look at some practical solutions.

Using a Shop-Vac (Wet-Dry Vacuum)

The Shop-Vac is an invaluable tool for homeowners, capable of picking up nearly any debris that can fit into its hose. This makes it an excellent option for extracting the last remnants of water from your pool.

Follow these steps to drain the final bit of water using a wet-dry vac:

Step 1: Use a waterproof extension cord long enough to connect from your pool to the power outlet without tension.
Step 2: Attach your pool filter hose to the Shop-Vac in place of the normal hose connection.
Step 3: Extend the hose to the deepest section of the pool and turn the vacuum on.
Step 4: Empty the wet-dry vac as necessary, as this method requires frequent emptying.
Step 5: Once the pool is nearly empty, detach the pool hose and switch to a flat vacuum attachment similar to an upright carpet vacuum. This will help remove the last bit of water along with any dirt or debris settled at the bottom.

Recommendations for Shop-Vacs

The Vacmaster Stainless Steel Wet Dry Shop Vacuum features a 5-gallon drum and a 360-degree swivel for enhanced maneuverability. With a 10-foot hose, it provides ample reach across your pool and includes a warning feature for when the tank is nearing full capacity.

Siphoning the Remaining Water with a Hose

Similar to the method discussed earlier for draining a non-draining above-ground pool, you can also use a hose to siphon out the remaining water. This time, keep the hose submerged in the water and actively move it around to ensure you capture every last puddle.

Recommendations for Hoses

While the type of hose isn’t critical, ensure it’s long enough to extend from the pool to a safe drainage area, and using multiple hoses can expedite the process.

Utilizing a Trash Pump

A trash pump is typically used for moving solid debris from construction sites or similar environments. However, it can also be a clever alternative for removing water from your pool, as it has sufficient suction to handle the task.

To use a trash pump for draining your pool, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Attach the hose to the trash pump.
Step 2: Position the pump near the pool.
Step 3: Activate the pump.

Recommendations for Trash Pumps

It’s advisable to rent a trash pump from a local hardware store or rental service, as most homeowners won’t require one frequently enough to justify purchasing it.

Using a Pool Vacuum

While not the most efficient method, using a pool vacuum can be a viable option if you’re in a tight spot.

Here’s how to utilize a pool vacuum to remove the remaining water:

Step 1: Connect a pool vacuum to your filtration system (ensure it’s a vacuum designed to draw water into the filter).
Step 2: Switch the pump to backwash mode.
Step 3: Keep the vacuum submerged as you work to suck up the water from the pool floor.

Recommendations for Pool Vacuums

The XtremepowerUS Premium Automatic Suction Vacuum offers exceptional suction power and can navigate the walls and corners of the pool to access hard-to-reach areas.

Draining with a Bucket

While not the most glamorous option, using a bucket is a straightforward way to remove the last bit of water from your pool. It requires physical effort, but it can sometimes be more efficient than other methods.

Steps for emptying the last bit of water using a bucket:

Step 1: Gather various bucket sizes to facilitate the process.
Step 2: Fill and dump each bucket of water from the pool.

Recommendations for Buckets

If you have children, get them involved! This can turn into a fun activity that allows them to play while helping to clean the pool.

All of the methods outlined above have proven effective for many homeowners. Choose the one that best suits your situation and give it a shot. If one approach doesn’t yield the desired results, don’t hesitate to try another.

FAQs About Draining Your Pool

Most pools do not require frequent draining unless there’s a significant issue. Here are some common questions regarding pool drainage and winter care.

Can Draining Your Pool Damage the Liner?

If a pool is left uncovered and empty under the sun, the liner may suffer damage. Additionally, mold and bacteria growth could occur. It’s essential to treat your pool appropriately before draining.

Will a Pool Lose Its Shape if Left Empty for Extended Periods?

Yes, there is a risk. A pool maintains its structure due to the water pressure inside. When drained, the sides and liner might start to shift or collapse.

Is It Better to Winterize or Drain a Pool at the End of Summer?

Professionals generally recommend draining a pool only when absolutely necessary. Keeping water in the pool throughout winter can be beneficial, and proper winterization helps maintain the pool’s condition for the next summer season.

How Often Should a Pool Be Drained?

Experts suggest that a pool should only be drained completely about once every ten years, ideally by a pool care professional. While it may be tempting to drain and refill when chemical imbalances arise, it’s crucial to refill promptly for the best outcomes. Regular maintenance during the hot summer months is vital to keep your pool in optimal condition.

In Conclusion

The easiest and fastest way to drain your pool is undoubtedly with a submersible pump. However, not everyone has access to one. The methods detailed above can be just as effective when executed properly, ensuring you can complete your task in a timely manner.