Draining your swimming pool might seem like a simple job—but if it’s not done correctly or for the right reasons, it can lead to costly damage. At Atlantis Pools in North Lakes, we often get asked, “When should I drain my pool?” The truth is, most pool owners won’t need to fully drain their pool very often, and when they do, it’s best to speak to a professional first.
“There are safe ways to reduce your pool’s water level, but draining it completely is rarely necessary,” says Kylie Rojahn, owner of Atlantis Pools. “If in doubt, we always recommend asking for advice first—draining too much can damage your equipment or structure.”
Common Reasons for Draining or Lowering Your Pool Water
There are a few scenarios where lowering the water level—or in rare cases, completely draining the pool—is required. But again, proceed with caution and get advice tailored to your pool’s construction and location.
✅ High Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)
Over time, pool water accumulates dissolved minerals, salts, and organic matter. When the TDS level gets too high, your water can become difficult to balance, and chemicals may lose effectiveness. In this case, partial draining and refilling with fresh water is often the best solution.
“We test for TDS during our in-store water tests,” Kylie says. “If levels are creeping up, we’ll advise the safest way to dilute your water.”
✅ Preparing for Heavy Rain or Tropical Storms
If a major storm is forecast, you may want to lower the water level slightly to prevent overflow.
Just remember—do not drain too much, as a low water line can stop your skimmer from functioning properly, or worse, lead to your pump running dry.
✅ Pool Repairs or Resurfacing
If your pool needs major repair work, such as resurfacing or structural fixes, our service team will manage the draining process professionally. Certain repairs require the pool to be empty, but this should only be done under supervision.
✅ Changing a Pool Light
Electricity and water don’t play well together, so when it’s time to change your pool light, it’s time to call in the experts! We’ll have your lights functioning again in no time. Enquire about our WiFi enabled LED light system to modernise your pool and be the envy of your neighbours!
Never Drain Below the Skimmer Without Advice
Draining your pool below the skimmer line can cause your pump to run dry, which may lead to expensive damage or complete failure of the pump.
“Running a pump without enough water is like running a car without oil,” Kylie explains. “It doesn’t take long before something burns out.”
How to Safely Lower Water Using a Media Filter System
If your pool is fitted with a media filter (commonly found in sand, glass, or zeolite filters), and you need to lower the water level after heavy rain, follow these steps:
Step-by-Step: Lowering Pool Water Using the Multiport Valve
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Turn off the pump.
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Rotate the multiport valve handle from “FILTER” to “WASTE” (clockwise).
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⚠️ Do not use the “BACKWASH” setting.
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Open any valves on the waste line. If it’s not plumbed to drainage, roll out your layflat backwash hose into a suitable draining area (e.g. lawn or approved stormwater outlet).
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Disconnect your suction cleaner and remove the vacuum plate from the skimmer box—this improves water flow.
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Turn the pump back on. Water will begin to drain to waste.
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Once the water level drops to about a quarter of the way down the skimmer box, turn the pump off.
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Return the multiport valve back to the “FILTER” position.
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Reconnect the vacuum plate and suction cleaner. Pick up and roll the layflat hose for storage.
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Turn the pump back on or return it to automatic timer mode.
When in Doubt, Ask the Atlantis Pools Team
At Atlantis Pools, we’re happy to guide you through water-level adjustments or organise a professional service visit. Whether you’re in North Lakes, Narangba, Redcliffe, or Scarborough, our team has the experience to help you manage your pool water safely and efficiently.
“Pool water is too valuable to waste,” Kylie says. “Our goal is to help customers find the smartest, safest solution—every time.”
Need to lower your pool’s water level or think it’s time for a partial drain? Call or visit Atlantis Pools for expert advice and local service you can trust.
📞 (07) 3491 9700
📧 atlantispoolshop@bigpond.com
🌐 www.atlantispoolshop.com.au
