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Equipment

Main drain

The main drain is the drain at the deepest point of the pool that pulls water down to the pump.

The main drain pulls water from the bottom, which helps move settled dirt and balance circulation with the skimmers. Many newer pools use more than one drain or a design that cannot trap a swimmer.

A broken, loose, or missing cover is a serious hazard because strong suction can hold a swimmer under. Do not swim until a pro replaces it. Federal law sets drain cover standards for public pools, and the same care makes sense at home. Ask your pool pro whether your drain covers are in good shape.

Related terms

Sources

  1. CPSC: Pool and Spa Drain Cover

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