The only way the plumbing system could apply this sort of suction is if there were only one open drain. The pool has a main drain, a skimmer and 3 returns (actually 4, but one is plugged, I assume there was a problem with it). Conversely, if dirt on the bottom of the pool is the principal contaminant, more suction is required at the main drain. If your swimming pool has a main drain, ensure, at minimum, that it has a suction entrapment-proof cover. Because it is located at the bottom of the center of the pool, it can easily become clogged by debris that sinks to the bottom of the pool. Any thoughts would be appreciated. A main drain circulates the pool's water by pulling water off the bottom of the pool and sending it to the filter. In the photo below, there are four valves. CASE STUDY: The Option of Pools without 'Main Drains' Background . I learned last night that turning the main drain & main drain return valves slightly open stopped the 2 pool returns from blowing out into the pool. Repairing Your In-ground Swimming Pool Main Drain Pipe In this article I'm assuming that you're looking to find and repair a main drain line leak at the very bottom of your pool, and that it has a deep end. A pool’s so-called main drain is not actually a drain; that is, it is not used to drain the pool. My pool has two main drain openings, to prevent entrapment. So my only dilemma is should I use the cleaner pump to help with the water circulation, as … For pool main drain safety, single main drains must be equipped with suction interruption devices. I have dedicated piping for the main drain and each skimmer. My pool has two main drain openings, to prevent entrapment. From entrapment to circulation, there are so many wrong ideas on swimming pool main drain. I primarily use a barracuda that connects to one of two holes in the one (and only) skimmer. The main drain has value other than draining out the pool. Therefore, I closed them again. I have a 40K inground pool that is losing maybe an inch or two of water every three or four days. I’m getting ready for my first spring pool opening. February 2009 . Laws regulating safe main drain operation in swimming pools are abundant. I use a Kreepy Krawly pool cleaner so the main drain stays closed all the time, otherwise, the … If you have a clog in your inground pool main drain, you will need to clear it. James from American Sale walks you through the process of winterizing an above ground swimming pool that has been installed with a main drain system. Your swimming pool's main drain requires regular maintenance. The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (“VGB Act”) and the ANSI/APSP-7 Standard for Suction Entrapment Avoidance in Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs, and Catch Be sure no one is in the pool when you attempt to remove the drain, as the suction can cause drowning. I closed the main drain on the pump suction line only, so I will check the valve (it's plastic) and see about repairing it. The federal 2007 Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act regulates swimming pool main drains. A normal pool valve setting would have the skimmer valve(s) fully open, main drain half-open and spa drain fully closed.