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If the pool water has to be drained at the end of the season, the question arises as to where to put the many liters, even with smaller quantities. Pool water must be properly prepared before disposal.

In a nutshell

  • Chlorine levels must be reduced before disposing of pool water
  • water contaminated with algaecide or biocide should be disposed of
  • you can only let chemical-free water seep into the garden
  • You can reuse water that does not contain any chemicals
  • Check with your local authority for regulations regarding pool water disposal

environmental aspects

The water in a swimming pool is a mixture of different chemicals that ensure that bacteria and other pathogens that could pose a risk to swimmers do not grow in it. The water does not damage the skin and can also be taken orally in small quantities without hesitation.
The situation is different if you want to dispose of large quantities of pool water, because you are then releasing a chemical cocktail. This can certainly lead to health problems and become dangerous for the environment. If pool water is disposed of illegally, it may react with other chemicals. Cleaning agents in particular, such as those found in waste water, can lead to dangerous vapours.
Even if you simply let the pool water out in the garden, this can have far-reaching consequences for the groundwater. The water can possibly contaminate wells, which would result in high clean-up costs.

Tip: Before disposing of pool water, check with local authorities for permitted disposal methods.

Contaminated pool water may need to be disposed of.

Legal Provisions

Basically, it is forbidden to simply dispose of water that is contaminated with chlorine. This includes both introducing it into a sewage duct and allowing it to seep away in the garden. An exception to this is water with a chlorine content below the limit of 0.05 milligrams per liter of water.
In addition, the water must be in the range of a neutral pH value. A value between 5.5 and 7.4 is ideal. In addition, no other chemicals may be contained in the water. These include, for example, biocides and agents to prevent algae.

Notice: There may be regional differences in this limit as it is not regulated uniformly. However, many environmental authorities adhere to this value, but you should always check beforehand.

The guide values always concern the water in the pool and not the amounts that have been added to the water. If there are chemicals left over for the pool at the end of the summer, they must not simply be disposed of either. This also applies to rinsing and cleaning water, which is used for the pump, for example. These agents are problematic substances that you have to hand in at collection points.

Reduction of the chlorine content

As it is only legal to dispose of pool water when the chlorine level is below a certain level, this is the first task before you can drain the water.
To lower the chlorine level, do the following:

  • Remove the pool cover and use sunny days whenever possible
  • no more chlorination for at least one week before the drain appointment
  • Remove chlorine residues in dosing systems

After a week, measure how high the chlorine level is in the water. If it is still above the limit value, continue to wait, because the UV light supports the chlorine splitting, which breaks down the chlorine. If the water level is not at the maximum, you can top up with water if necessary. However, you should only do this if it is absolutely necessary to save water.

drain pool

If the water meets the legal requirements, you can dispose of it. Different methods are allowed. You can dispose of the water via the sewer or let it seep away in the garden. In both cases, however, there are conditions. Some municipalities only allow a certain amount of water to be discharged into the sewage system.
If you want to let the water seep away in the garden, the following conditions apply:

  • Floor must be unsealed
  • Infiltration must be slow
  • Water must not be contaminated with biocides or algaecides
  • Distance to buildings and roads must be sufficient to avoid substantial damage

Sensible subsequent use

It is environmentally friendly if you think about a sensible reuse for the pool water. The water can be used in many ways, which also has the advantage that large quantities of water do not get into the sewage system. Especially in autumn you can use the pool water for cleaning before you put your devices away for the winter.
Examples of subsequent use:

  • washing water (car, machines, garden chairs, tools)
  • Service water (toilet flush, cleaning water)
  • Irrigation water (only possible with untreated water)
  • lawn watering

Reusing pool water is not only environmentally friendly, you can also save on water costs. You can even divert the unpolluted pool water into water tanks as irrigation water. This can be a valuable resource next spring or early summer if there is no rainfall.

frequently asked Questions

Can I still use the pool without chlorination?

You can still bathe in it a few days after you stop adding chlorine to the water. However, the chlorine ensures that no germs and bacteria multiply in the standing water, a low chlorine content means an increased health risk when bathing.

Can I reduce the chlorine content with a filter system?

Yes, if you have the option of fine filtration in a filter system, the chlorine content can also be reduced. However, running the pump costs energy, which is not very environmentally friendly, which is why you should prefer methods that conserve resources. Only if you have to change the water quickly during the season because it can no longer be stabilized after contamination should you resort to quick methods such as filtering.

Do I have to measure the pH again before draining?

Yes, before you drain the water, you must check all the values again. Only when the water meets the standards may you dispose of the pool water.

Does the pool water need to be drained completely?

When you dispose of the pool water, a residue should always be left in the pool as this gives the pool stability. However, if repairs or cleaning are pending or the water has been dumped, you can dispose of the entire pool water.
Where can I find out what limit values there are for pool water. - In addition to the local authorities, you can also check with the local water company. Municipalities also often publish information brochures that are available online as the number of private pools increases every year. If you have a small sewage treatment plant, contact the company that installed the small sewage treatment plant beforehand.

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Garden design