Safe Pool Draining Steps Before Renovation Work Begins

Many people think draining a pool is simple. Switch on a pump and wait. But a concrete pool is designed to be full, and its water is part of the balance between pressure from inside and soil pressure from outside. Removing the water suddenly without assessment can upset that balance, and in some cases new cracks appear or part of the pool moves, which is the last thing you want before renovation.

This guide walks through safe draining step by step, so you understand each stage and can follow the crew with confidence.

Step one, assess the site before any pumping

• Current condition. Existing cracks, hollow tiles and known leaks, photographed so new issues can be spotted afterwards.
• Soil and location. Is the villa on low ground? Is there heavy garden irrigation around the pool?
• Relief valve. Some pools have a valve in the floor that lets groundwater enter instead of pushing up, which changes the method.
• Discharge point. There must be a suitable place for the water that will not flood the garden or reach neighbours.
• Weather. Strong heat affects the empty surface and dust storms fill it with sand.

Step two, check groundwater

This is the most important step and often skipped. A full pool is heavy and its water holds it in place. Once empty, it is much lighter. If the water level in the soil is high, from the site itself, a long leak or heavy irrigation, that water pushes on the floor from below. This can crack the floor and, in rare cases, lift part of the pool. A specialist checks the soil and may open the relief valve, dig a test hole near the pool or stop surrounding irrigation ahead of time.

Step three, prepare the water for discharge

• Stop adding chlorine some time before draining so it falls naturally.
• Test the water and confirm chlorine is low and pH near normal.
• Direct it to a proper discharge point instead of planting beds.

Before pumping, the main pump, lights and connected equipment are isolated, so the main pump never runs dry and the crew works safely.

Step four, pump out gradually

1. Use a submersible pump sized for the pool, not the filter pump.
2. Pump at a measured rate so any change in the pool or soil is noticed early.
3. Watch walls and floor as the level drops for new cracks, sounds or movement.
4. Check the discharge so water does not pool near the villa footings.
5. Remove the last water at the deepest point with a small pump or by hand, cleaning out sediment.

Step five, protect the empty pool

• Do not leave it empty longer than needed, so drain close to the renovation start.
• In strong heat, the surface may need light wetting or covering, depending on the finish.
• Fence or clearly mark the empty pool, as a fall into it is a serious danger, especially for children.
• Allow only the crew inside, with proper equipment.

Step six, inspect and prepare

• Full inspection of floor, walls, corners and steps.
• Tapping tiles to map hollow areas.
• Checking suction, return, light niches and the main drain.
• Photographing everything and comparing with pre-drain photos.
• Updating the renovation plan and informing the owner before starting.

Not sure your pool needs a drain at all? Read the signs that call for a full drain.

Your role as the owner

• Stop garden irrigation around the pool ahead of draining if the crew asks, to reduce soil moisture.
• Tell the household the pool will be empty and keep children away from the area throughout.
• Share what you know, such as past leaks, old repairs or pool drawings.
• Set aside space for equipment and debris that does not block daily movement.
• Be present, or send someone, for the post-drain inspection before the final plan is approved.

Common draining mistakes

• Draining without checking soil and groundwater.
• Using the main filter pump.
• Discharging chlorinated water onto the garden.
• Leaving the pool empty for long in midsummer.
• Not securing the empty pool against falls.
• Starting renovation without a full post-drain inspection.

At YAM Pools draining is part of the renovation plan, carried out after a site assessment and under technical supervision, in Riyadh and across the Kingdom.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drain the pool with the filter pump?

It is not recommended. The filter pump is not designed for draining and can be damaged if it runs without enough water. A suitable submersible pump is used instead.

Why does groundwater matter when draining?

An empty pool is much lighter, and saturated soil underneath can push on the floor and crack it. A prior assessment sets the precautions needed.

Where should the pool water go?

To a suitable discharge point that can take the volume, after chlorine levels have dropped. Pouring it onto the garden can harm plants.

How long can a pool stay empty?

As short as possible, with draining timed close to the renovation start. Leaving it empty in strong heat without protection can affect the surface.