Main Drain
The main drain is the fitting at the lowest point of a pool that allows the pool to be completely drained and provides a second suction point for the pump.
Definition
The main drain is the fitting at the lowest point of a pool that allows the pool to be completely drained and provides a second suction point for the pump.
Typical Values: Anti-entrapment drain covers required; replace if cracked, missing, or improperly secured
In Plain Language
The main drain allows the pool to be fully drained for maintenance. During normal operation, it shares suction duty with the skimmer, pulling water from the pool bottom to complement the surface skimming. Main drain covers are a safety requirement — they must be anti-entrapment rated (ANSI/ASME A112.19.8) to prevent suction entrapment of hair or body parts. Inspect and replace damaged main drain covers immediately.
Why It Matters
Main drain covers are a life safety item — missing or damaged covers have caused child drownings from suction entrapment.
Typical Values
Anti-entrapment drain covers required; replace if cracked, missing, or improperly secured
Last reviewed: 2026-06-01