Do You Need A Pool Main Drain?by Lisa
We are replastering and thinking of redoing the old copper plumbing. We were quoted on 3 return lines (we currently have 2) an autofill, a poolsweep line, skimmer, and split the main drain. We are kind of weary of cuttting through the gunite for the main drain. Won't it weaken the shell? One pool contracter said we dont even need a main drain, that the vaccum and skimmer would be enough circulation. What are your opinions of the main drain. Should we just close it off? Thank you. Thanks for the question Lisa This is one of those questions in the pool realm that is likened to "Are there UFOs" in the secular world. There are so many opinions about whether a pool should have a main drain or not. But first we need to understand what drains are. Most people don't use them to drain their pools. It's used for circulation. Some pool experts and builders say it's necessary for circulation. If you don't have a drain, the skimmers do most of the work and only filter the top part of the water, leaving the bottom stagnant. My opinion is this: If you have a pool cleaner, such as a Polaris and a good skimmer, along with 3 returns lines, and good gallons per minute (GPM) I personally wouldn't put in a bottom drain. No need to cause a problem later on. I read an article about this very issue. It's dated, back in 2006, but still relevant. You can find it here: http://www.allbusiness.com/environment-natural-resources/ecology/5471798-1.html Again, this is just my opinion, but that's what you asked for. Hope it helps and have a great Summer. Robert
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