We need to drain...how??

[Luric]

We need to lower CYA after a long vacation now that we're no longer using our salt cell, but all the markings on our valves have been "Northeastern Winter" washed away - We've never lowered, certainly never by the FEET required to bring us in-range which is below skimmer. The valves we've tried just bring water from pool=spa=pool=spa...

 

[PoolGate]

To drain a pool get a sump pump. Turn the pool off, drain, refill, turn the pool back on.

 

[Rancho Cost-a-Lotta]

Don't try to use the pool pump to drain below the skimmer. You'll damage the pump if it runs dry. You can rent a submersible pump from HD or Lowes, or just buy one like THIS.