*How to Empty a Fiberglass
Gunite or Concrete Swimming Pool

The Process of Draining a Swimming Pool

Basically, there are two methods to achieve this end. The usual way is to purchase a backwash hose from a pool supply store such as Leslie's or Adcock pool supply, and attach it to the filter. This method is only for pool owners fortunate enough to has a "sand" filter.

The other method would be with a sump pump (preferably 2") and be sure run the hose away from your property. and your neighbors property. Be careful not let the pump continue to run after the pool is empty because it will burn out..

Because even the smallest swimming pool has at least 10,000 gallons of chlorinated water, you should be cautious when determining where to dump the water. Some townships even have regulations, so you should check and find out.

Hydrostatic Relief Valves

If your gunite or concrete pool has hydrostatic relief valves, remove them as soon as you can get to them while emptying the pool. If you have a bottom drain and it has two valves, open the unused valve as soon as the pool is drained.

After removing the valves, place a pipe into the valve (about 3’ to 6’ long) and put a hose through the pipe. This will prevent the hose from laying on the bottom while you're working. Bring the hose up over the top of the coping and attach a sump pump to draw the water from under the pool. This is just ground water, so there is no chemical content to be concerned about. Point the water flow to a drainage area away from the pool and other homes in your proximity.

Stand Pipe

Many fiberglass pools had a water problem during construction and, to the current owners good fortune, have a "stand-pipe" located near the pool. If this is the case, simply remove the cap and place a long hose into the pipe, then attach the hose to a pump and drain the underground water.

Quite often, a stand pipe equivalent was used when the fiberglass pool was built, and a high water table was encountered. You may have a piece of black or white PVC emerging from the ground on the side of the deck closest to the grass and on the same side of the pool as the pump and filter.. This PVC goes directly into a 4' by 4' by 4' pit filled with stone. This PVC serves the same function as a stand-pipe and should be used as explained above.