Draining your above-ground pool is one of the key maintenance tasks that keeps the water clean, healthy, and your equipment in good condition. Here's everything you need to know β when to do it, how to do it legally, and which method works best.
Why and When to Drain an Above-Ground Pool
Draining removes accumulated impurities, resets chemical balance, eliminates bacteria and algae, and helps extend the life of filters, pumps, and water lines. Occasional water renewal also keeps the pool fresher and cleaner, especially for pools exposed to outdoor elements.
Drain your above-ground pool when you notice wall dirt or scale buildup, during renovation work, or when the water has become over-stabilized with chemicals. Recommended frequency: 1 to 3 times per year.
Should You Drain Your Pool Every Winter?
Yes. Above-ground pools are not designed to withstand freezing temperatures. At the end of each swim season, completely empty and disassemble the pool for winter storage. This protects the filtration system, the liner, and the pool structure from cold-weather damage. Reinstall in spring or early summer for the next season.
How to Drain an Above-Ground Pool
Regulations First
Pool water is not classified as domestic wastewater and cannot be discharged into the sewer system (Article R1332-2 of the Public Health Code). Violation can result in fines. Options: obtain a waiver from your local municipality, or discharge into the public stormwater network β but you must stop all chlorine treatment at least two weeks before draining.
Before You Start
Secure the work area β remove objects that could compromise safety and consider installing a barrier. Choose favorable weather: avoid extreme heat or rain. Gather your equipment in advance.
The Five Main Draining Methods
1 β The Drain Plug
A sealed fitting fixed to the pool bottom, the drain plug allows partial or complete draining and helps manage excess water during heavy rains. Verify its proper installation beforehand to avoid leaks during the process.
2 β Submersible Drain Pump
The most efficient option for all pool types. Low noise, compact, easy to handle, and capable of running up to 30 hours continuously. Important: must always be submerged in water β it cannot run dry.
3 β Garden Hose
Connect the hose from the pool bottom to the drainage point. Simple and universally available, but slow β low flow rate means draining can take many hours. Best for small pools or partial drains when time isn't a concern.
4 β High-Pressure Washer
Faster than a garden hose and simultaneously cleans walls, coping, and surfaces during draining. Avoid thermal (gas-powered) models β they release harmful particles. Electric models are the safer choice.
5 β Sand Filter Waste Mode
The sand filter's waste position circulates water in reverse, bypassing the filter and evacuating it directly. Efficient and removes bottom sediment simultaneously. Watch for potential leaks if large volumes of water are involved.
Whether you use a submersible pump, drain plug, garden hose, pressure washer, or waste mode, draining your above-ground pool 1β3 times per year β and always before winter storage β is one of the most important steps in keeping it safe, clean, and long-lasting.
FAQ: How to Drain an Above-Ground Pool
What is the best way to drain an above-ground pool?
The most common methods for draining an above-ground pool are: the drain plug at the bottom of the pool (fastest if available), a submersible pump or sump pump (drains a 10,000-litre pool in 1β2 hours), the garden hose siphon method (slow but no equipment needed), or the pool pump on 'waste' setting if your filter has a multiway valve. Never drain a pool directly onto your neighbour's property.
Can I drain pool water onto my lawn?
Yes, but only if the chlorine level is very low (below 0.1 mg/L). Heavily chlorinated water will burn grass and may kill plants. Either allow the water to dechlorinate naturally (leave the pool uncovered in sunlight for 2β3 days before draining) or add a sodium thiosulfate dechlorinator (pool neutraliser) before draining onto soil or lawn.
How long does it take to drain an above-ground pool?
Draining time depends on pool volume and method. A submersible pump rated 3,000 L/h will empty a 15,000-litre pool in about 5 hours. A pump rated 10,000 L/h empties the same pool in 1.5 hours. Gravity drain via a hose siphon takes 6β12 hours for a 15,000-litre pool. The drain plug method takes 12β24 hours for large pools.
Can I drain my pool into the sewer?
In most French municipalities, draining pool water into the storm drain is not permitted. You should drain into the sanitary sewer (wastewater system) where it can be treated. Some councils require prior notification for large volumes. Draining into natural waterways (rivers, streams) is generally prohibited. Check your local regulations before draining.
Do I need to drain my above-ground pool for winter?
In regions with frost, yes β a partial drain (lowering the water level 20β30 cm below the skimmer) combined with winterisation chemicals and anti-freeze floats is the standard approach. A full drain is recommended for inflatable and light tubular pools that are disassembled and stored indoors. Never leave water in a pool exposed to hard freezing β it can crack the liner, fittings and pump.
