Draining pool...

[gj78]

My circumstances require me to drain my pool, completely. In ground, plaster, 20 years old(as far as I know). I can't afford to repair or maintain a pool at this time, as it needs a complete upgrade.

So, sump pump is in and working. My question is, the current sludge in the pool...is it best to stir it up and hope it gets sucked out, or let it dry(as I am in AZ) and vacuum it out?

Thanks in advance, as every post I've read pertains to the pool being refilled and that is not the situation here. Oh, yes, per city code, no chemicals(i.e. chlorine) can't be added.

 

[JasonLion]

Welcome to TFP!

If you do indeed drain the pool, I would allow the "sludge" to dry out and remove it after it has dried.

Keep in mind that dry plaster does not do well in the summer in Arizona sunlight. You may well experience plaster damage unless you can provide a fair bit of shade to keep the plaster cooler than it will get in direct sunlight.

It is also important to make sure that the bottom of the pool is above the local water table, though I doubt that will be an issue in Phoenix.

 

[Richard320]

I'd let the pump suck out as much as I could, and mop up whatever is left with old towels and throw them in the wash. Once stuff sticks to the plaster and dries there, it will harden like concrete. It won't vacuum up.

 

[gj78]

That was my thought(drying)...thanks for the input all.!

 

[gj78]

Uh oh. Think I've got in over my head with this DIY project. More sludge then I thought. Wish me luck! Any additional suggestions are welcomed!