How to Replace a Swimming Pool Main Drain

Maintaining your swimming pool can sometimes involve replacing the main pool drain and the drain cover. Replacing the main drain in your pool can be complex and it can sometimes be difficult. It can be simpler and safer to leave the replacement of the main drain to the experts, but replacing the main pool cover can be done in a day. Follow the simple rules to replacing the cover to help you get the job done.

Step 1 - Purchasing the New Drain Cover

You will want to replace your old main drain cover with a version that meets new government guidelines. These devices are known as anti-entrapment covers, as they help to prevent fingers and hair from becoming trapped under the drain. Any drain cover which is being used as a replacement has to meet the ASME National Standard.

Step 2 - Evaluate Your Pool

Consider how deep your pool is, and whether you feel comfortable diving to that level in order to replace the drain cover. If you have previous experience of diving in this type of condition, then you should get your scuba-diving gear on, and go to the bottom of the pool. If you are not sure about your ability to manage, then call a professional and have them perform the switch for you. Leave the water in the pool as removal might cause damage.

Step 3 - Swap the Covers

Turn off your filtration system, and make sure that there is no suction in the drain. With the new cover in your hand, dive to the bottom of the pool. You will need to unscrew the old drain, and pocket the screws. Place the old drain to one side, and slot the new drain cover into the main pool drain. Your new drain should be sized sufficiently to fit into the drain hole. Place it into the middle of the drain area, and let it go to correctly position it without the cover becoming trapped in the vortex.

Step 4 - Follow the Directions

Your drain cover will come with a series of instructions from the manufacturer, which will give details of how to properly connect the cover to the drain, and any screws or nails that should be used to keep the cover in place. Read these instructions carefully before you begin the dive, and then follow them closely. They are the best guide to how to position the new drain, and you ignore them at your own risk.

Step 5 - Phone a Professional

If you are not sure that you are competent to install the main pool drain cover yourself, you should call a professional to come and fit it instead. Pool companies are used to diving into swimming pools, as this can be very different from diving into the sea. The cost of this installation should not be too much, as it will only take a few minutes, and is not too difficult for a professional. Once you have the cover installed, it should be good for many years to come, so consider it an investment for the future.