What To Do If Your Pool Is Overflowing

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Pools are a fun, fantastic addition to any home, but they undoubtedly require regular maintenance to keep them functioning correctly.

One of the most common (and frustrating) problems pool owners face is overflow, especially after heavy rain. While an overflowing pool may seem like a non-issue, it can lead to serious, expensive problems if not dealt with quickly.

Here’s what to do if your pool is overflowing to ensure a safer pool.

1. Turn Off the Pump

If you find yourself with an overflowing pool, you should first turn off the pump. This step will help to prevent the problem from getting worse. Once the pump is turned off, you can diagnose the situation and decide what you need to do next.

Different Types of Pumps

If your pool has a submersible pump, you can simply unplug it from the outlet. You may need to turn the switch to the “off” position for above-ground pools.

If your pool has a cartridge filter, you must remove the lid and turn the handle to the “off” position.

Finally, if you have a sand filter, you’ll need to set your multiport to the “waste” setting and allow the pool pump to run until the water level has decreased to the appropriate level.

2. Drain the Pool

Once the pump is off, you will need to drain it to prevent further damage. Do this by opening the drain valve and allowing the water to flow. Be sure to have a hose or other drainage device ready to catch the water as it drains out.

Sometimes, the whole yard is flooded, and the water will have nowhere to go. In that case, you may have to wait until the yard has absorbed more of the water before attempting to drain.

Depending on the heaviness and longevity of the downpour, you may only have to drain a few inches, or you may have to empty the pool.

3. Inspect the Pool for Damage

If you decide to empty the pool, look closely at it for any damage that may have occurred. Look for cracks, holes, or other signs of wear and tear. If you find any damage, it’s vital to repair it as soon as possible to prevent further issues.

4. Remove Debris

Once the pool has been drained, you’ll need to remove any debris that may have gotten into the pool. The debris you may expect includes twigs, leaves, flowers, and anything else that could clog the drain. Be sure to also check the skimmer baskets and clean them out.

5. Refill the Pool

Once the pool is clean and clear of debris, you can begin to refill it. Be sure to use clean, fresh water to avoid any contamination. Depending on the size of your pool, this may take some time.

6. Turn On the Pump

Once your pool is full, you can turn the pump back on. Be sure to check all the connections and hoses to ensure there are no leaks. You may also need to add chemicals, such as a chlorinator, to the pool to balance the pH levels.

7. Enjoy Your Pool!

After all that work, you can now sit back and enjoy your pool! Be sure to keep up with regular maintenance to prevent any future issues.

The Dangers of an Overflowing Pool

While an overflowing pool may not seem like a big deal, it can lead to serious problems.

Landscaping Issues

One of the most common problems is damage to your landscaping. If the pool water has nowhere to go, it will likely run into your yard and cause flooding.

This additional flooding can damage your lawn, plants, and shrubs. Not only is this landscape flooding inconvenient, frustrating, and annoying, but it can also be pricey to repair and rejuvenate.

Structural Issues

Another problem that can occur is structural damage to your home. If the water is allowed to pool against your foundation, it can create cracking and other damage. In the worst cases, it can even cause your foundation to collapse.

Contamination Issues

Another serious problem that can occur is the contamination of your pool water. If the water is allowed to sit for too long, it can become stagnant and start to grow bacteria

This bacterial growth can lead to health problems for anyone who swims in the pool.

To avoid these problems, it’s important to take action quickly if your pool is overflowing. By following the steps above, you can ensure a safer pool and avoid any serious problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re not an expert on pool maintenance, you may have a few more questions about addressing an overflowing pool.

How does rain affect water chemistry?

More water in your pool from rain dilutes chemicals in the pool and throws the chemistry off balance.

Water isn’t the only thing that comes down in a rainstorm. Rainwater comes with pollutants that can impact your pool’s overall quality and safety.

You should test your water chemistry more frequently and add chemicals as needed after a rainstorm.

Can an overflowing pool cause foundation problems?

Yes, if the water is allowed to pool against your foundation, it can cause cracking or cause the foundation to collapse completely. 

It’s important to take action quickly if your pool is overflowing to avoid these problems.

How do you know when your pool has too much water?

There are a few signs that indicate your pool has too much water:

  • The water level is higher than the tile line
  • The skimmer baskets are overflowing
  • The main drain is covered
  • The auto-filler is running constantly

If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to take action to address the issue. Getting acquainted with all of your pool’s different parts and components will be a significant factor in solving any problems that may arise.

What if I can’t fix the issue?

If you’ve read what to do if your pool is overflowing and are still unsure how to handle it, there’s no shame in calling a professional.

A pool technician will be able to identify the problem and help you get your pool to its normal state in no time. You can find a pool technician in your area online or ask your friends for recommendations.

Final Word

Overflowing pools can be a particularly challenging hassle, but with a little work, you can get your pool back to normal.

Now that you know what to do if your pool is overflowing, be sure to take action quickly and follow the steps above to avoid any major problems. And if you have any questions that have yet to be answered here, feel free to comment below.

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