How to Drain an Intex Pool: Step-by-Step Guide for Backyard Bliss

Summer is now officially over in Australia, and it’s time to say goodbye to the swim season. That means draining your Intex pool. Draining the pool is essential because it prevents damage, saves water, and complies with local regulations. In this blog, you will find detailed step-by-step procedures on draining an Intex pool, some common mistakes made when draining an Intex pool, and Aussie-specific tips for draining an Intex pool in Australia.

Tools and Preparation for Draining an Intex Pool

Here’s what you need for Intex pool drainage:

• Garden hose
• Submersible pump
• Bucket 
• Wet/dry vacuum

Tip: Before beginning the drainage, check the local water disposal laws; this varies from city to city, mostly in Sydney, where the guidelines are contained in Sydney Water's provisions.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Drain an Intex Pool 

Follow the step-by-step instructions below on how to drain an Intex pool properly.

Step 1: Clean your Intex Pool

First, check the pool and test it for contamination. Then, start externally clearing the pool with a net or skimmer. Then brush the walls and floor of the pool. An Aiper robotic cleaner is the best in this case, as it automatically brushes the floor, sweeping every corner of the pool.

Step 2: Check Water Chemistry 

Before draining your pool, it's important to check the water chemistry to prevent environmental damage. Imbalanced water may contain high levels of chlorine, chemicals, or pH, harming plants and soil. 

Step 3: Locate the Drain Pump

You may wonder how to empty an above-ground pool in Australia. Locate the drain valve outside of the pool and attach a garden hose. Connect the female end to the valve, open the valve, and let the water drain in a suitable drainage area such as a storm drain or garden (if allowed). Be careful not to flood your neighbour’s yard. Drainage depends on the size of your pool, and it may take a while. Tilt or shake your pool gently to remove any remaining water to prevent mould or algae growth.

Step 4: Dry the Pool

Once the pool is entirely drained, the last thing will be drying it. You may sponge the corners to remove the stagnant water. After that, wipe its surface with a dry towel. Make sure no moisture is left as it may lead to algae growth. Set the Intex pool to dry in an open and well-lit area. Allow it to air dry completely and avoid direct sunlight, as it may fade the material.

Step 5: Fold the Pool

Put the valve cap back on. Fold the walls of the pool on all sides and pull one side of the pool over to meet the other side. From here, keep folding in half until you have a long strip, about 3-4 feet wide. 

Step 6: Store the Pool

Store the folded pool at room temperature and make sure it’s kept away from birds or other critters that may puncture the pool’s vinyl. Avoid storing it in damp or humid areas to prevent mould.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Draining an Intex Pool 

This is a big mistake that many pool owners tend to make all the time- they keep draining the Intex swimming pool, always causing more harm than good. 

• Draining it without a hose: This means you connect a garden hose to the pool valve and set the end in the right spot for draining. Not many people remember this, causing much flooding and environmental damage. 
• Ignoring local regulations: You must check your local drainage regulations before draining your pool. Failure to do so will result in legal consequences. 
• Leaving water in the pool: In a rush to store pools, many homeowners leave their pools unemptied, even halfway, which later becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, algae, and mould.

What to Do After Draining Your Intex Pool 

After draining, ensure your Intex pool is dry, properly folded, and stored. Besides soaking up the remaining water with a towel, you can use it to wipe the corners of the pool, ensuring that no water remains. Letting the pool dry well would be advisable so that any remaining water can evaporate completely. The pool can then be deflated using an air pump. Fold all walls first and then fold them in half. At this point, begin rolling tightly, pushing air pockets continually as you go. 

Once folded, store the pool in a cool and dry area protected from direct sunlight and moisture. A bag or container with clean, folded pools offers better Intex pool storage, preventing dirt and debris from clogging the pool during winter. 

Conclusion 

The process of learning how to drain an Intex pool works to preserve it and prevent wear and tear in the long run. This whole process is simple: clean and rinse the pool, drain the pool with the help of a hose, dry it, fold it, and then store it in some cool and moisture-free place.