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Do I need a Main Drain?

11 years ago

So - here I go about to star build-my-own pool #3.

I am in the planning stages and have seen articles, etc on building in ground gunite pools with out a main drain. All seems to make sense to me. Interested if you regular pool builders have a strong opinion.

As I understand it you add an additional skimmer - I am building about 90ft perimeter free form and would have 3 - and additional returns placed to move water toward the skimmers. This allows for plently of circulation and completely eliminates any chance of entrapment. Not to mention the Polaris wont get stuck.

Thanks for your input - I am sure I will have many questions as I go and will try to keep you all posted on the progress.

(FYI - pool build is in Katy, TX.)

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PRO
Aqua-Link Pools and Spas
11 years ago
There's a lot of debate about that in the industry right now weather you actually need them nowadays or not. Right now I think the conclusion is that they are still useful. Three skimmers seem to be two to many on a pool that size. With the variable speed pumps you are going to set the majority of your circulation time on a lower speed so you will not get as much draw through the skimmers as you would with a normal one speed pump. Remember your pipe size plays a more important role in how much water you move versus how many suction lines you have.
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