Properly Draining a Pool or Hot Tub

Properly Draining a Pool or Hot Tub

Chlorinated Pools

Chlorinated pools and hot tubs contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment if discharged into the storm sewer system. These harmful chemicals can make their way into the rivers, creeks, and waterways of Thames Centre. This can negatively affect the local plants, animals and environment.

Chlorinated pools and hot tubs must be left to sit with the cover off for a minimum of two weeks in order to ensure that the chemicals have dissipated. No chemicals are to be added to a pool or hot tub in the meantime. The use of dechlorination tablets or pucks are encouraged, however the pool or hot tub must still sit uncovered for two weeks.

After two weeks have passed, homeowners are encouraged to direct the water from the pool or hot tub onto their lawn, garden, or other greenspaces on their property. By discharging the dechlorinated water into the ground, the water is naturally filtered. This will ensure that little to no chemicals are present.

Saltwater Pools

It is extremely important that saltwater pools are not discharged into the storm water system. Discharging saltwater pools onto lawns is also not acceptable. The addition of salt water into Thames Centers waterways is hazardous to the environment.

An MECP certified waste hauler must be contacted in order to remove salt water from pools.

Discharging Water onto Ground

While discharging a chlorinated pool or hot tub’s water onto the ground, ensure that the water is discharged onto the homeowner’s property and does not flow onto neighboring properties. Ensure that the discharged water does not flow into a valley or ravine in order to mitigate erosion.