Draining your Intex pool is an essential maintenance task that helps keep the water clean and the pool in good condition. Whether you’re preparing to store the pool for the season or simply refreshing the water, knowing how to drain it properly saves time and prevents damage. Using a garden hose to drain your Intex pool is one of the easiest and most cost-effective methods.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of draining your Intex pool using a garden hose. You’ll learn how to set up the hose for efficient drainage, safety tips to consider, and how to avoid common pitfalls. By the end, you’ll feel confident managing your pool water like a pro, ensuring your pool stays in its best shape year-round.
Why Drain Your Intex Pool With a Garden Hose?
Draining your pool is necessary for several reasons:
- Water quality maintenance: Over time, pool water accumulates dirt, bacteria, and chemicals that reduce its clarity and safety.
- Preventing damage: Stagnant or dirty water can harm the pool liner and pump system.
- Seasonal storage: Draining before winter prevents freezing damage.
- Easy and affordable: Using a garden hose requires no special tools and uses simple physics to move water.
How to Drain an Intex Pool Using a Garden Hose: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Pool and Hose
- Turn off all electrical equipment. Disconnect the pump, filter, or any other powered devices to avoid damage.
- Locate the pool’s drain valve. Most Intex pools feature a drain valve near the bottom, typically designed to connect to a garden hose.
- Attach the garden hose. Connect one end of the hose firmly to the drain valve. Ensure a tight fit to avoid leaks.
Step 2: Position the Hose for Optimal Drainage
- Place the free end of the hose downhill or at a lower elevation than the pool. Gravity will help water flow naturally.
- Avoid kinks or sharp bends in the hose that could restrict water flow.
- Ensure the water drains into an appropriate area, such as a garden or drainage system, to prevent flooding or property damage.
Step 3: Open the Drain Valve
- Slowly open the drain valve to begin water flow.
- Water will start moving through the hose by gravity. This process can take several hours depending on pool size and hose length.
Step 4: Monitor the Draining Process
- Periodically check the hose connection to prevent leaks.
- Ensure the water is flowing freely from the hose outlet.
- If water flow slows, check for hose kinks or blockages.
Step 5: Remove Remaining Water
- Once most water is drained, use a pool vacuum or a wet/dry vacuum to remove any leftover water at the pool bottom.
- For small pools, tipping or manually removing remaining water with buckets is also effective.
Step 6: Close the Drain Valve and Disconnect the Hose
- After the pool is fully drained, close the drain valve tightly.
- Remove the garden hose and store it properly for future use.
- Clean and dry the pool surface before covering or storing.
Tips for Safe and Efficient Pool Draining
- Check local regulations: Some municipalities restrict draining pool water into sewers or storm drains. Always drain responsibly.
- Avoid draining onto paved surfaces: Pool water can damage concrete or carry chemicals harmful to plants.
- Use a hose with a proper diameter: A wider hose allows faster drainage.
- Drain during cooler parts of the day: This reduces evaporation and helps prevent algae growth.
- Maintain pool water chemicals: Before draining, balance your pool’s chemicals to avoid environmental harm.
Common Questions About Draining an Intex Pool With a Garden Hose
Can I use any garden hose to drain my Intex pool?
Yes, most standard garden hoses will work. However, a hose with a diameter of at least 5/8 inch is recommended for faster water flow.
How long does it take to drain an Intex pool with a garden hose?
Draining time depends on the pool size and hose length but typically ranges from 2 to 6 hours for standard-sized pools (10-20 feet).
Is it necessary to use a pump to drain the pool?
No, gravity draining with a garden hose is usually sufficient. Pumps speed up the process but are not mandatory.
What do I do with the drained water?
Use it to water your garden or lawn, provided the water is free of harmful chemicals. Avoid draining into storm drains or neighbors’ property.
Real-World Example: Draining a 15-Foot Round Intex Pool
A pool owner wanted to drain their 15-foot Intex pool for winter storage. They attached a standard 5/8-inch garden hose to the pool’s drain valve and placed the other end in the backyard garden, downhill from the pool. Opening the valve fully, the water started flowing naturally. After about 4 hours, most of the water had drained. They used a wet/dry vacuum to remove the last bit of water from the pool floor. The process was simple, cost-effective, and prevented any damage to the pool liner or yard.
Conclusion
Draining your Intex pool with a garden hose is a straightforward, eco-friendly method that requires minimal equipment and effort. By following the steps outlined above—preparing your pool, positioning your hose correctly, and monitoring the drainage—you can efficiently empty your pool while protecting your equipment and surroundings.
Remember to always consider local regulations and environmental impact when draining pool water. With proper care, draining your Intex pool will keep it clean, safe, and ready for the next season. So grab your garden hose and get started today!
Call to Action:
If you found this guide helpful, share it with fellow pool owners and subscribe for more practical pool maintenance tips. Have questions or tips of your own? Leave a comment below!
