Can an In Ground Pool Overflow?

Can an Inground Pool Overflow

Have you ever asked yourself if an in ground pool can overflow? Well, I think that is a great question and I would love to be able to give you with an honest answer. It is not just as simple as yes, or no, though. The answer is yes, but let me give you some reasons why an in ground pool could overflow.

You May Have Drainage Issues.

A local Chicago in ground pool builderBarrington Pools, told us that a pool can overflow due to a poor drainage system. Think about the ground or deck surrounding your pool. If it is slopped to the pool, then every time it rains that water will flow directly into your in ground pool causing the pool to overflow. This is because water takes the path of least resistance. If the ground is sloped toward the pool, then that is where the water will go.

  • Keep in mind that pool decks should have a ¼ slope for every foot. This prevents any drainage issues.
  • Water run-off should never go into your pool. It can make upkeep even harder with the extra bacteria and dirt from the ground. Plus, it causes the overflow.

Perhaps, Too Much Water?

Sometimes you can have too much water in a pool. This can cause an overflow, too. The best thing you can do to fix the issue is to just eliminate some of the water in the pool. I am by no means suggesting you start scooping the water out with a 5-gallon bucket. There is a much better way!

Here it is…

  • Siphon the water out. You can do this by taking the pool’s vacuum hose and priming it in the pool, filling it with water, then quickly pulling the hose out above the pool. The water should then flow easily through the hose. When you have reached the right water level take the hose out.
  • Use a submersible pump. These are used to keep the pools water levels where they should be.
  • Open the filter valve located on the pump’s filter.

Does Water Overflowing Cause Any Damage?

If your in ground pool is overflowing, then you can bet it is causing damage. You will end up spending a lot of time and money on your in ground pool if the problem of overflowing continues. There are several problems that an overflowing pool can cause. Here are some below.

  • Damage to your lawn. If you take put time and care in your lawn, an overflowing pool will be quick to mess all of that up. All the chemicals in your pool will sit on that grass causing a puddle of mush in your backyard. The is worse if you live in a rainy environment.
  • The price of getting your ph balance fixed. You will have to buy more chemicals now that the ph of the pool water has been thrown off. A good ph level is average 7.
  • Pool filter costs and damage. With the amount of debris that can enter from run-off, the pool’s filter can be damaged by working overtime. Pools can get very nasty when run-off occurs in your pool. It is best to eliminate run-off if possible.

Your pool skimmer cannot do the job it is trying to do if the water level in the pool is higher than it should be. Always make sure your water level is correct. You can expect to spend a good amount of time out of the pool when trying to get your pool’s chemistry back in check. You can read more about that at Hunker.com.

What is the Best Treatment If Overflow Occurs?

The best treatment is prevention. You don’t have to fix any problems if you prevent them. However, if you did not know about all this until the problem happened, sadly you will have to take the steps above. If you have not had an overflow, here is how to prevent it from happening. And, yes, it does happen.

  • Keep a check on your water levels.
  • Make sure the deck and area around your pool is built with a ¼ slope per foot away from the pool.
  • Do not build French drains around your in ground pool.
  • Monitor the amount of water that you add to your pool. Never leave the pool unattended when adding water. It is very easy to go over the amount of water the pool needs. So, a close eye is key.
  • Be prepared for when a heavy rain comes. Pool covers help protect against debris. Pools should not remain covered, but a storm is a good time to get them covered up.

Some Final Thoughts on Safety Before You Go.

The upkeep of your pool is important. Never swim in your pool without making sure that the PH balance is correct first. Most states require that in ground pools be fenced in and with a lock due to risk the of children drowning or other individuals who may wander into a pool unknowingly.

You can find additional information at Intheswim.com or Phalen.com. Also, here is an informational video from youtube.com, it talks about the risks of electrocution from overflowing pools!