Draining a pool is riskier than it looks. Do it wrong and the shell lifts out of the ground.
Hydrostatic uplift
A pool full of water is heavy enough to hold itself down. Empty, it becomes a large hollow box. If groundwater sits above the pool floor, the water pushes up.
Before draining, check groundwater. Open the hydrostatic relief valve in the pool floor if one is fitted. If none is fitted, drill a test hole beside the pool to confirm the water table sits below the floor level.
In coastal areas including Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah and parts of Nad Al Sheba, this is not optional.
When you actually need to drain
- Resurfacing, retiling or structural repair
- Total dissolved solids far above the fill water level
- Severe staining needing an acid wash
- Check the surrounding plant and controls before replacing one part
Where the water goes
Pool water cannot go to the storm drain. It goes to the foul sewer connection, or it gets tankered away. Chlorinated water also kills planting, so do not send it onto the garden without dechlorinating first.
Never leave a pool empty
An empty pool in Dubai summer takes direct sun on the shell.
What matters in Dubai
Pool systems work together. Lighting, automation, covers, fountains and cascades and safety equipment can affect circulation or access. Each addition should be checked against the existing plant rather than treated as a separate accessory.
What to check before work starts
The existing pool or room should be inspected as a complete system. Visible damage may sit beside a separate problem in the pipework, controls, waterproofing or ventilation. A written scope should identify the affected parts and state which surrounding surfaces need protection or opening.
Any new system should be checked against the electrical supply and the existing controls. Cable routes, isolation and waterproof connections belong in the scope before the pool finish is opened.
Related pool services
The subject may connect with swimming pool construction and swimming pool maintenance. Swimming pool repair can be relevant as well. Swimming pool tiling applies where the shell or finish is opened. Sauna installation and steam room work are separate wet-area services.
- Swimming pool construction and renovation
- Swimming pool maintenance and water care
- Swimming pool repair and equipment work
- Swimming pool tiling and waterproofing
- Sauna and steam room installation or repair