How do you clean an inground fiberglass pool that has 6 inches of mud in the bottom from a flood if drain it?

Cleaning an inground fiberglass pool with a substantial amount of mud at its bottom requires proper preparation and safety measures. Since water is necessary for the cleaning process, draining the pool is not recommended as this can cause structural damage to the fiberglass due to the extreme pressure caused by the weight of the mud and the change in water levels. Here are the steps you can follow to clean a flooded inground fiberglass pool with 6 inches of mud:

1. Safety Precautions:

- Ensure the pool's electrical system is turned off to avoid any electrical hazards during the cleaning process.

2. Mud Removal:

- Start by using a pool brush with stiff bristles to loosen the mud from the pool's surface and sides.

- You may need to use a specialized tool like a pool mud vacuum or a shop vacuum that can handle wet and dry debris.

3. Clean the Mud Filter (If Applicable):

- If your pool has a mud filter, clean or replace the filter cartridge or bag to remove any accumulated mud.

4. Refill the Pool:

- Once you've removed as much mud as possible, refill the pool to the recommended water level. The water pressure will further assist in dislodging the remaining mud.

5. Circulation:

- Turn on the pool's circulation system and filter to allow the water to circulate and carry the suspended mud particles to the filter.

- This process may take several days, so be patient and keep the filter running continuously.

6. Clean the Filter:

- Clean or replace the pool's filter regularly as it will be collecting the dispersed mud particles.

7. Water Clarifier:

- Use a water clarifier or flocculant to help settle any remaining mud particles to the pool's bottom.

8. Vacuuming and Brushing:

- After the water clears up and most of the mud has settled at the bottom, vacuum the pool thoroughly.

- You may need to use a pool vacuum with a brush attachment to remove any remaining mud from the pool's surface and bottom.

9. Backwashing:

- Perform regular backwashing of the pool's filter to expel trapped mud particles and debris from the filter media.

10. Maintain Chlorine Levels:

- Keep the pool's chlorine levels within the recommended range to sanitize the water and prevent the growth of bacteria and algae.

11. Monitor Water Chemistry:

- Test and adjust the pool's pH, alkalinity, and other water chemistry parameters as needed to keep the water balanced.

12. Safety Check:

- Once the pool is cleaned and the water is clear, ensure all ladders and other equipment are in good condition before allowing swimmers to use the pool.

Remember, cleaning a flood-affected pool can be a challenging and time-consuming task. If the mud is too deep or the cleaning process seems overwhelming, consider consulting with a professional pool service company to assist with the cleanup.