The Reflecting Pool in DC May Need To Be Drained To Be Fixed—and Homeowners Should Pay Attention

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is drawing attention once again.

Officials reported a variety of issues over the weekend, including continued algae growth, peeling paint, and even alleged vandalism that’s led to arrests and citations, according to the president.

“The United States Park Police have arrested multiple individuals for vandalizing our Nation’s magnificent Reflecting Pool. Who would do such a thing?" questioned President Donald Trump in a Truth Social post.

He vowed that work would begin "immediately on its repair,” as his hope was for the $14.2 million renovation to be completed in preparation for the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The National Park Service continues to clean up and assess the pool, but Trump believes it will likely need to be drained to completely repair it. 

“We met with contractors today, will probably be forced to release and drain much of the water in order to do the necessary repairs," Trump also shared on a Truth Social post reported by NPR.

If your home has a pool, you may also find yourself in a situation where you'll need to drain it to address more serious problems that go beyond water chemistry. But you'll want to avoid it, if you can.

What is pool draining?

Put simply, pool draining is when you remove all the water from the pool.

It’s usually required when you need to access the surface and repair structural issues. 

“Draining can allow you to inspect the surface of the pool closely, scrape off peeling paint, repair damaged areas, and apply a new coating properly,” explains John Uhle, founding partner and product expert at Discount Salt Pool in Waller, TX.

It’s a good idea only when you can't access and fix pool surfaces underwater. For example, it might be necessary to repair cracks on pool surfaces, remove stains, repair tile, or clean serious buildup. 

“You may also need to drain the pool when water chemistry is unbalanced with too much stabilizer or calcium hardness. But even in these cases, you need only a partial draining,” explains Uhle.

Fortunately, cloudy water, algae, low chlorine, and any problems associated with water chemistry usually don’t require pool draining. Chemicals, filtration, brushing, and vacuuming are usually adequate solutions.

Where the water goes after it’s drained depends on the location of the pool and how responsible the person draining the water is. 

“If you’re in a state with perpetual water shortages, such as California, a full pool drain can involve trucks that drain the water, filter it, condition it, and put it back into the pool. In other states, the water is often dumped into sanitary sewer systems or storm drains,” explains Justin Miller, CEO of Crystal Water Monitor in San Diego. 

Pool draining tips to keep in mind

If you do determine your pool needs to be drained, here are several expert tips to put on your radar.

Learn your local rules

“A lot of cities, counties, and states won't let you drain a pool and run the water to the street drains. In fact, you may face a fine if you do so,” says Todd Tripp, JustAnswer general contractor and pool expert in Salt Lake City. 

Before you do anything, check your local regulations.

Time it correctly

Wait for the ground to be dry, and avoid draining the pool after heavy rains. 

“Draining the pool after heavy rains is a huge risk because the pressure underground rises and often leads to structural damage of the pool, such as cracks in the pool shell,” explains Uhle.

Consider partial draining 

Always check first if partial draining is enough because, in many cases, partial draining is just what it takes to solve the problem. 

“Partial draining eliminates risks like pool shell shifting or popping due to hydrostatic pressure. It’s also easier and cheaper,” Uhle says.

Hire a pro

Pool draining isn’t a simple DIY task. 

It’s best to work with a pool professional who can evaluate your situation and inform you of whether it’s even necessary in the first place. A pro may also tell you if a partial drain is enough and explain the local regulations in your area.