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Swimming Pool Drains & Inlets |
 Most pools have a pair of main drains at the bottom, usually situated in the deepest point in the pool, with the entire floor slanting toward them. Debris, which naturally settles to the lowest area, is sucked automatically through the main drains toward the pump and then through the filter.
 The Antivortex Cover
If you’ve ever placed your hand over the main drain in a swimming pool, you’ve felt the tug generated by the pump. In pools with two drains and multiple skimmer baskets, having one blocked drain will not create a dangerous situation. But where there is only one drain, a blocked flow can create a hazardous form of suction known as a vortex. This strong pull can trap swimmers even in a shallow pool, posing a potentially grave danger. Having multiple drains and skimmers reduces the risk of danger but doesn’t eliminate it altogether.
To further enhance safety, all drains—as well as all equalizers installed with skimmers— should be fitted with an antivortex cover. This slatted or perforated cover, similar to a drain cover in a shower, prevents hair and limbs from becoming caught in the plumbing. If anti-vortex covers are in place and the pool is built and operated correctly, there is virtually no risk of suction pinning someone against a drain.
The Hydrostatic Valve
Groundwater that lies beneath the swimming pool is not a problem as long as the pool is filled; the sheer weight of the water keeps the pool structure firmly in place. If the pool is emptied, however, groundwater exerts tremendous pressure against the bottom and sides of the pool. This pressure can be so great that it can crack a concrete pool and cause a fiberglass pool to lift up out of the ground.
Fitting each main drain with a hydrostatic relief valve prevents the problem. The valve consists of a floating ball that lies in a pipe between the drain and the groundwater. During normal operation, the water in the pool presses down against the ball and seals the drain off from the groundwater. When the pool is empty, however, the ball floats up and unblocks the pipe if the pressure from the groundwater increases to dangerous levels. Then, instead of cracking or lifting, the pool simply fills with harmless groundwater.
 Inlets
Once water passes through the pump, it returns to the pool via the inlets. Rather than just allowing water to run back into the pool, inlets focus and concentrate the flow, jetting the water into the pool. This process helps distribute chemicals evenly and mixes heated water with cooler water to provide a uniform temperature.
Get Pool Cleaning Help in Your Area
Swimming Pools and Spas All you need to know about planning and installing a pool. Also, guides to pool equipment and components. Includes an idea gallery with breathtaking pool photography.
Copyright Sunset Publishing Corporation
Photo courtesy of Pentair Pool Products
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