How Often Should You Change Your Pool Water?

What Central Florida Homeowners Need to Know

Most homeowners are surprised to learn that pool water is not fully drained and replaced every year. Modern pools are designed to maintain the same water long-term with proper filtration and chemical balance.

At Professional Pool Company, we follow industry best practices to help homeowners understand when (and if) a full water replacement is truly needed.

⭐ How Often Should Pool Water Be Replaced?

For most pools, complete water replacement is recommended every 5–7 years — and often even less frequently when the water is well-maintained.

Because Central Florida uses gunite pools with efficient filtration systems, many homeowners go 10+ years without ever having to completely drain their pool.

⭐ When a Full Drain Is Needed

A complete water replacement is only required when:

✔ Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) are too high

Over time, minerals and chemical byproducts accumulate. If TDS becomes excessive, water becomes difficult to balance.

✔ Stabilizer (CYA) is excessively high

Too much cyanuric acid makes chlorine ineffective.

✔ Severe algae contamination

If algae has deeply penetrated the plaster.

✔ Interior surface refinishing

Draining is necessary when resurfacing or repairing plaster.

✔ Major contamination

Such as paint spills, fertilizers, or bacteria from floodwater.

⭐ When You Should Not Drain Your Pool

Draining a pool is risky if done improperly. Homeowners should never drain a pool when:

• The ground is saturated from rain
• Groundwater levels are high
• The pool shows signs of hydrostatic pressure
• Ambient temperatures exceed 90°F

Gunite pools can float or crack if drained under the wrong conditions.

Always consult a professional before draining.

⭐ What You Should Do Instead

Most water-quality issues can be solved without draining the pool:

• Partial drain & refill (10–30%)
• Filter cleaning or replacement
• Shock treatment
• Chemical rebalancing
• Enzyme treatments

Routine maintenance keeps water healthy for years without the need for a full drain.

⭐ Professional Pool Company Recommendation

With proper cleaning, filtration, and chemistry:

You should only need to replace your pool water every 5–7 years.

Some pools may go even longer.

If you're unsure, schedule a water analysis — we’ll test your water, evaluate TDS, CYA, and overall condition, and provide honest guidance.

👉 Need help or a professional evaluation?

Call 321-252-7371 or visit propoolco.com to schedule a water assessment.

Updated on: 05/12/2025