Maintaining Pools & Hot Tubs

What Is Stormwater?

Stormwater is rainfall and snow melt that flows over land surfaces to a storm drain system. Drains and swales transport stormwater to the river, streams or the aquifer.

Water from pools and hot tubs is not considered stormwater because the water contains chlorine and other chemicals. If water from pools and hot tubs were to reach the storm drains, it would pollute stormwater. It is easier and cheaper to prevent stormwater pollution than to clean it up.

Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs)

BMPs are procedures that help prevent pollutants such as chlorine, metals, and sediments from entering storm drains. By practicing the BMPs for draining pools and hot tubs that are outlined below, you will help keep our stormwater systems and drinking water clean.

General Maintenance:

• Clean your pool or hot tub regularly. Maintaining proper chlorine levels, water filtration and circulation will reduce the need to drain your pool or hot tub.
• Avoid using copper-based algaecides. Control algae with chlorine or other alternatives to copper-based pool chemicals.
• Dispose of unwanted pool chemicals properly–many are hazardous wastes when discarded. Household hazardous wastes may be taken to the Asotin County Regional Landfill.

Filter Maintenance:

• Never rinse or clean filters into the street, paved driveways or a street drain. Do not drain backwash into streets or street drains.
• Rinse cartridge filters into a container and allow the waste to settle out. Dispose of residue by bagging and placing in the trash after it dries out.

Draining Pools and Hot Tubs:

• Prior to draining, shut off the chlorination system or do not add any chlorine for at least 1-3 days to allow the chlorine to dissipate.
• Drain water onto a landscaped area of your property; away from septic system drain fields (if applicable). If you are unable to drain water onto a landscaped area, contact the Stormwater Program Coordinator for alternatives.
• When draining, be considerate of your neighbor by keeping all water on your property. Use sand bags or berms, if necessary, to keep water from leaving your property.
• Do not drain if there has been recent application of herbicides, pesticides or fertilizers.
• Avoid draining water during rainy weather conditions to prevent flow from reaching street drains.

Storing Pool and Hot Tub Chemicals:

Store chemicals indoors and away from drains to prevent leaks and spills that could make their way to storm drains.

Clearly and visibly label bottles to avoid being dumped outside or down the sink by mistake.

 

Reprinted from:

City of Spokane
509-625-7900

City of Spokane Valley 
509-688-0321

Spokane County
509-477-3604

Spokane Regional Health District
509-324-1560, EXT. 3