Bottom Drain Line Freezing

by Kara
(Jackson, New Jersey)

We have an above ground pool. Last year, when we replaced the liner - the contractor suggested we put in a bottom drain. He actually closed the pool, so we aren't sure how he secured the drain to keep the line from freezing. When we went to get chemicals to close the pool - the people at the pool store told us to take the drain cover off, screw a plug into it and then drain the line. Please tell me there's a more effective way to accomplish this - as the plug idea seems totally illogical to me. And, considering the guy who did it last year didn't have a plug in it....there has to be a way. Thanks.


Hi Kara. Since we do not get Freezing conditions here in Arizona I may not be the most knowledgeable on the subject., but I have never heard of closing off the main drain on an above ground pool.

It is recommended that the filter system be removed and stored out of the weather for the winter. To do this you would need to close the valve going to the drain. This can be done from outside the pool, assuming you have a valve on the drain line, like you should.

It seems to me that if the drain line were to freeze the water would expand back into the pool, therefore eliminating any risk of the line breaking.

Hopefully if anyone knows different they will make a comment with their suggestions.