If ground water is not a problem a pool can be left empty for weeks or even months as long the hydrostatic relief in the bottom of the pool is open and functioning. If the time frame of the pool being empty gets into freezing weather there is real risk of freeze-thaw damage to surface of the pool.

How long can a pool be left drained?

Modern concrete pools can usually stand being drained for as long as needed, but there’ll still be a risk of popping if the ground water level is high. Fibreglass pools are less resilient. The floor may come loose and float to the top when refilled, even after a short period.

Can a pool be left empty?





As long as your pool has enough water in it to counteract the water pressure that’s outside the pool, you don’t have a problem. But if you empty the pool, even concrete pools, you risk serious issues, including damaging the vinyl liner, cracking concrete sides, and the pool literally popping out of the ground.

Will a pool collapse without water?

Most inground fiberglass and concrete pools are built structurally to withstand the weight of the dirt against them when drained. However, if the groundwater is high enough, it can push the entire pool out of the ground. The pool shell acts like a ship and floats up in the groundwater.

Is it safe to drain a concrete pool?

Inground pools made of concrete or gunite are susceptible to popping out of the ground if drainage is not done properly. If there has been a surplus of rain recently or your pool is located in a wet area, it is best not to try and drain the pool yourself at all.

Is an empty pool a safety hazard?

Even pools that are running and properly maintained for marketing purposes pose a safety hazard, simply because of the risk of drowning. Making this all the more terrifying for the various parties involved, the risk is always there, 24/7/365, even if the gates are secured.

Does draining a pool damage it?





First, if the draining is done at the wrong time or under the wrong conditions, you can actually risk damaging your pool structure and liner. All the water from your pool needs to go somewhere when it’s drained, and that usually means the ground.

Should you drain a concrete pool for winter?

Close the pool for winter – but don’t drain it.



In winter, the water in your pool is still your friend. Especially when properly winterized, it helps to protect the pool liner, keep it clean and prevent unnecessary damage from debris, harsh weather and other factors.

What can be done with an unused inground pool?

6 Genius New Uses for an Old Swimming Pool

  • The sunken patio. …
  • The practical deck. …
  • The practical deck. …
  • The detached studio. …
  • The detached studio. …
  • The peaceful pond. …
  • The peaceful pond. …
  • The water-wise garden.

Will a concrete pool float?

Concrete Pools, Vinyl Pools and Fiberglass alike all have the ability to float if not properly built or due to extreme weather conditions or hydrological ground changes after the pool is built. picture of a vinyl pool that floated its liner. Demonstrating that all pools can float.

How do you close a concrete pool?



What are the steps to closing my inground pool for winter?

  1. Get equipment organized. …
  2. Prepare the pool. …
  3. Prepare filters and pumps. …
  4. Prepare your pool heater. …
  5. Drain and blow out your lines. …
  6. Plug the skimmer hole. …
  7. Balance your chemicals. …
  8. Install your pool cover.

What is the fastest way to drain an inground pool?

Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: The first thing you would do is locate your valve. And this valve right here has a suction for the skimmer as well as a suction for the main drain as well as an off position.

How can I drain my pool without flooding the yard?

All you need is a medium-size water or vacuum pump. Unroll the pump’s intake hose so that it reaches the center of the pool (or as close to it as possible), and submerge it in the pool. Place the outlet hose so the exiting water doesn’t flood the area, but drains off away from the pool.

How long does it take to drain a 15000 gallon pool?



Draining a pool can take up to 14 hours, depending on the size, so be sure to drain it on a day when you have sufficient free time. You need to be home to check on the pool, the hoses, and the pump frequently.