Should you drain your pool when it is about to overflow?

Draining a pool when it is about to overflow is unnecessary and wasteful. Here's what you can do instead to address this situation:

1. Stop the Water Source:

a) Turn off the water supply to the pool. This will prevent any further water from entering the pool and potentially causing it to overflow.

b) If the water is rising due to heavy rain, check if there are any obstructions in the drains that could be preventing water from flowing out.

2. Inspect the Overflow Drain:

a) Look for the overflow drain in your pool. This is usually a pipe or hole located near the top of the pool's walls or deck.

b) Make sure that the overflow drain is clear and unobstructed, allowing water to flow out if the pool reaches that level.

3. Adjust Chemical Levels:

a) Verify if the pool's chemical levels are balanced. Excess chemicals, especially high alkalinity or pH levels, can cause the water to expand and increase the likelihood of overflowing.

b) If necessary, use pool chemicals to adjust the pH and alkalinity within the recommended ranges.

4. Pool Cover or Tarp:

a) If the rising water is due to heavy rain, and the pool is already full, consider using a pool cover or tarp. This will prevent further rainwater from accumulating in the pool.

5. Submersible Pump:

a) In cases where the water level is still too high, you can use a submersible pump to remove excess water. These pumps are designed to extract water from your pool and drain it to a suitable location.

By taking these steps, you can usually address the situation and prevent your pool from overflowing. Draining the pool entirely is a last resort and should only be considered if there are structural or safety concerns. If you are unsure about handling this situation or need professional assistance, it's advisable to consult with a pool maintenance expert.