Avoid the DC Reflecting Pool disaster in your own backyard with these tips
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is once again drawing attention.
Officials reported a variety of problems over the weekend, including persistent algae growth, peeling paint and even alleged vandalism that the president said led to arrests and citations.
“The United States Park Police have arrested several individuals for vandalizing our nation’s beautiful Reflecting Pool. Who would do such a thing?” the chairman asked Donald Trump in a Truth Social post.
He promised work would begin “immediately after repairs” as he hoped the $14.2 million renovation would be completed in preparation for the country’s 250th anniversary.
The National Park Service continues to clean up and assess the pool, but Trump believes it will likely need to be drained to fully repair it.
“We met with contractors today and will likely be forced to release and drain much of the water to make necessary repairs,” Trump also shared on a Truth Social post. reported by NPR.
If your home has a pool, you may also find yourself in a situation where you need to drain the pool to address more serious issues beyond water chemistry. But you want to avoid it if you can.
What is pool drain?
Simply put, draining the pool is removing all the water from the pool.
This is usually necessary if you need to access the surface and repair structural issues.
“Draining allows you to accurately inspect the pool’s surface, scrape off peeling paint, repair damaged areas and properly recoat,” explains John Uhlfounder and product expert Discount salt swimming pool in Waller, Texas.
It’s only a good idea if you can’t reach and repair the underwater pool surfaces. For example, it may be necessary to repair cracks in pool surfaces, remove stains, repair tiles, or remove serious deposits.
“It may also be necessary to drain the pool if the water chemistry is out of balance and there is too much stabilizer or calcium hardness. But even in these cases, only partial draining is necessary,” Uhle explains.
Fortunately, cloudy water, algae, low chlorine levels, and any problems related to water chemistry usually do not require draining the pool. Chemicals, filtration, brushing and vacuuming are usually adequate solutions.
Where the water goes after it is drained depends on the location of the pool and the responsibility of the person draining the water.
“If you’re in a state with constant water shortages, like California, a full pool drain may involve trucks that remove the water, filter it, condition it, and put it back into the pool. In other states, the water is often dumped into sanitary sewer systems or storm drains,” explains Justin MillerCEO of Crystal water monitor in San Diego.
Pool draining tips to keep in mind
If you determine that your pool needs to be drained, here are some expert tips to put on your radar.
Learn your local rules
“Many cities, counties and states do not allow you to drain a pool and allow the water to flow to street drains. If you do, you can even be fined,” says Todd Tripp, Just answer general contractor and swimming pool expert in Salt Lake City.
Before you do anything, check local regulations.
Time it correctly
Wait until the soil is dry and avoid draining the pool after heavy rain.
“Draining the pool after heavy rainfall is a huge risk because the underground pressure rises and often leads to structural damage to the pool, such as cracks in the pool wall,” explains Uhle.
Consider partial drainage
Always check first whether partial draining is sufficient, because in many cases partial draining is exactly what is needed to solve the problem.
“Partial deflation eliminates risks such as sliding or breaking of the pool wall due to hydrostatic pressure. It is also easier and cheaper,” says Uhle.
Hire a professional
Draining a swimming pool is not an easy do-it-yourself task.
It is best to work with a pool professional who can assess your situation and inform you if this is necessary at all. A professional can also tell you if a partial drain is sufficient and explain the local regulations in your area.
