Is Your Spa Draining When Your Pool is Off? Check Your Empties!

If you’re a spa owner, you know that maintaining your spa is crucial to keep it running smoothly. However, even the most diligent spa owners can experience issues that require troubleshooting. One common issue that can be perplexing is when your spa is draining, even when your pool is off. This issue can be caused by something called empties, which are a crucial component of your spa’s drainage system.

Empties are designed to help drain the water from your spa when you turn off the pump, allowing for a quick and efficient drainage process. However, if empties are not working correctly, it can lead to your spa draining even when your pool is off, which can cause frustrating issues.

In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about spa empties, including why they are important, how they work, and what to do if they become clogged. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to keep your spa running smoothly and prevent issues with drainage.

Read on to learn more about spa empties and what you can do to keep them working effectively!

Why Is Your Spa Draining?

Spas are a fantastic way to relax and unwind after a long day, but what happens when you notice that your spa is draining? This can be a frustrating experience, especially if you’ve just filled your spa with fresh water. There are a number of reasons why your spa may be draining, but some of the most common include:

Cracked Pipes: Your spa’s pipes may be cracked, allowing water to escape. This can be caused by age, damage, or freezing temperatures.

Leaky Valves: Your spa’s valves may be leaky, allowing water to escape. This can be caused by wear and tear or improper installation.

Worn Seals: Your spa’s seals may be worn, allowing water to escape. This can be caused by age, exposure to chemicals, or wear and tear.

Broken Empties: Your spa’s empties may be broken or clogged, causing water to drain from your spa. This is a common problem that can be fixed with the right tools and techniques.

If you’re experiencing a spa drainage issue, it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible. Not only can a leaking spa be frustrating, but it can also be expensive to repair. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at empties and why they may be causing your spa to drain.

Why Is Your Spa Draining?

Improper Water Level

One common reason for spa draining is an improper water level. The water level should be maintained within a specific range, typically indicated by the spa manufacturer. If the water level is too high, it can overflow and drain out of the spa. On the other hand, if the water level is too low, it can cause the spa to lose water.

Leaving the spa uncovered can also lead to an improper water level. This is because the water can evaporate quickly, causing the water level to drop below the recommended level. Additionally, high bather load or frequent use of the spa can also lead to an improper water level, as water can be easily splashed out during use.

To avoid an improper water level, regularly check the water level in your spa and adjust it accordingly. Also, consider using a spa cover to prevent water evaporation and reduce splashing during use.

Pressure Imbalance

A pressure imbalance can cause water to be drawn out of your spa when the pool pump is turned off. This is because your spa’s water level is higher than your pool’s water level when the pump is off. When the pump is turned off, water from your spa can drain into the pool.

There are several reasons why your spa might have a pressure imbalance, including a clogged or damaged check valve, a faulty diverter valve, or an issue with the plumbing that connects your spa and pool.

It’s important to address a pressure imbalance issue as soon as possible, as it can cause your spa’s equipment to malfunction and even damage your spa’s infrastructure.

If you suspect a pressure imbalance is causing your spa to drain when your pool is off, it’s recommended to contact a professional pool and spa technician to inspect and repair the issue.

What Are Empties?

Empties are devices used to keep the water level in a spa or pool from dropping below the skimmer. They are designed to prevent the spa or pool from running dry and causing damage to the pump and other equipment.

Empties are also known as pool equalizers or spa equalizers, as they help to balance the water levels between the pool or spa and the water source.

Most empties are made of plastic and have a small float valve that opens when the water level drops below a certain point. This allows water from the main pool or spa to flow into the empty, maintaining a constant water level.

The Function of Empties

Empties are a crucial component in spa and pool systems, as they help remove water from the pool or spa quickly and efficiently. They work to create a vacuum-like effect, allowing the water to drain out through a drain line.

The empties are designed to work with the pool or spa’s pump and filter system, which circulates water through the pool or spa and removes debris. The empties are typically placed in the deepest part of the pool or spa to help ensure that all the water is removed.

Without empties, draining a pool or spa can be a slow and tedious process, requiring manual siphoning or other time-consuming methods. Empties help to speed up the process, allowing pool and spa owners to drain their systems quickly and easily.

Types of Empties

Gravity Drain: This is the simplest type of empty, which uses gravity to pull water from the pool or spa and into the drainage system. It requires a downward slope and relies on gravity to work.

Power Drain: This type of empty uses a motorized pump to force water from the pool or spa and into the drainage system. It is much faster than gravity drain and is useful for larger pools or spas.

Hybrid Drain: This is a combination of gravity and power drains. It uses gravity to remove the bulk of the water, and then a pump to remove the remaining water that gravity alone cannot remove.

How Do Empties Work?

Gravity: Empties rely on gravity to draw water out of the spa and into the pool when the spa is turned off. The water in the spa drains through a series of pipes and empties into a receptacle located below the water level of the pool.

Vacuum: The water flow through the empties is driven by the vacuum that is created when the pump is turned on. The vacuum draws water through the pipes and empties and into the pool, which helps to equalize the pressure between the spa and the pool.

Check valves: Check valves are often used to prevent water from flowing back into the spa after it has been drained. These valves allow water to flow in one direction only, so water can drain from the spa, but it can’t flow back in.

Proper installation: Proper installation of empties is crucial for them to function correctly. Empties must be installed at the correct depth, angle, and distance from the spa to ensure that they can function properly and drain the spa effectively.

Understanding how empties work is important to maintain the proper water levels in your spa and prevent costly damage to your equipment. Keep reading to learn more about how to troubleshoot and fix issues with your empties.

Vacuum Effect

One of the primary ways that empties work is through the vacuum effect. When your pool pump is on, water is drawn into the filter and then pushed back into the pool through the return jet. However, when the pump turns off, the water in the plumbing lines and filter will drain back into the pool, leaving air in the system.

This air creates a vacuum that can suck water out of your spa and into the pool. Empties prevent this from happening by providing an alternate path for the water to flow, allowing air to enter the plumbing lines without drawing water from the spa.

It is important to note that a clogged or malfunctioning empty can lead to a loss of water in your spa or other issues, so regular maintenance and cleaning are necessary to ensure proper function.

Other factors can also impact the vacuum effect, such as the position of the pool and spa valves and the layout of the plumbing lines. A professional pool technician can assess your system and recommend any necessary adjustments to prevent water loss and ensure proper water flow.

Water Flow Control

Empties play a critical role in regulating the flow of water in a variety of applications. They control the volume and rate of water, ensuring that the correct amount is delivered to the intended location.

Empties are commonly used in irrigation systems, where they can help prevent overwatering and conserve water. They are also used in plumbing systems to control the flow of water to various fixtures.

Empties can be adjusted to control the flow of water in two ways: by changing the size of the opening through which the water flows, or by changing the pressure of the water entering the device. By manipulating these variables, the flow rate can be precisely controlled to meet specific needs.

Empties can also be used to direct the flow of water to specific areas, such as in fountains or decorative water features. By controlling the flow rate and direction of the water, they can create visually stunning effects that enhance the overall design of the feature.

What Happens When Empties Are Clogged?

Blockages: One of the most common problems with empties is blockages. When the empties get clogged, the water can’t flow out properly, leading to backup and overflows.

Reduced Functionality: When the empties are clogged, their effectiveness is reduced, and they can’t perform their intended function of preventing water damage.

Water Damage: When empties get clogged, they can’t perform their intended function, and this can result in water damage. This water damage can be severe and costly to repair.

Contaminants: When empties get clogged, they can create a breeding ground for bacteria and other contaminants. This can pose health hazards for those living in the affected property.

Reduced Water Flow

When empties become clogged, water flow can be significantly reduced. This can cause water pressure problems throughout the plumbing system, leading to inefficient water use and higher water bills. It can also result in slower draining and longer wait times for hot water.

Clogs can occur from a variety of sources, such as mineral buildup, hair, soap scum, and food particles. Regular cleaning of drains and empties can help prevent clogs and maintain proper water flow.

If left untreated, clogged empties can eventually cause water to back up into sinks, tubs, and toilets. This can result in overflowing and water damage to your home.

Water Contamination

When empties are clogged, they can cause water to back up and overflow, leading to water contamination. The stagnant water trapped in the empties can also become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and other microbes that can make people sick.

Water contamination from clogged empties can also cause foul odors, discoloration, and an unpleasant taste. In addition, the contaminated water can damage pipes and plumbing fixtures, leading to costly repairs.

To prevent water contamination from clogged empties, it’s important to regularly clean and maintain them. This involves removing any debris or sediment buildup and using appropriate cleaning solutions to disinfect and remove any bacteria or other microbes that may be present.

In cases of severe clogging or water contamination, it may be necessary to call in a professional plumber or drain cleaning service to address the issue and prevent further damage or health hazards.

Pump Damage

Empties that are clogged can also cause damage to the pump. The pump has to work harder to force the water through the clog, leading to an increased pressure that can damage the pump and its motor.

In some cases, the clog can cause the pump to overheat, which can also lead to pump failure. A damaged pump can be costly to replace and may cause a disruption to your water supply.

Regularly checking and cleaning your empties can help prevent damage to your pump and prolong its lifespan. If you notice any signs of pump damage, such as strange noises or decreased water pressure, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.

It’s also important to note that attempting to clear a clog with harsh chemicals or improper tools can cause additional damage to the pump, so it’s best to use gentle methods such as a plunger or drain snake.

How Can You Fix Empties?

If you have a clogged empty, the first step is to identify the location of the clog. Clearing the clog is often as simple as using a plunger or a drain snake to physically remove the obstruction.

If you find that the empty is still not functioning properly after attempting to clear the clog, the next step is to check the air vent. Sometimes, a blocked air vent can create a vacuum that prevents water from draining properly. Clearing the vent can restore proper drainage.

Another potential issue that can cause empties to malfunction is a damaged or worn pump. In some cases, replacing the pump is the only way to fully restore the empty’s function.

Finally, to prevent clogs and other issues from occurring, it’s important to perform regular maintenance on your empties. This can include tasks such as cleaning the empty to remove buildup, checking for leaks, and replacing worn parts before they become a problem.

Manual Cleaning

Manual cleaning is a straightforward way to remove clogs from your empties. You can use a plumbing snake or a coat hanger to manually remove the blockage. Insert the snake into the empties and rotate it clockwise until it comes into contact with the clog. Use force to break up the clog and remove it. After removing the clog, flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining debris.

Vinegar and Baking Soda can be used for clogs that are less severe. Start by pouring boiling water down the drain. Then pour a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Cover the drain and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. Finally, flush the drain with hot water.

Plumber’s Snake can be purchased at most hardware stores. Insert the snake into the empties and rotate it clockwise until it comes into contact with the clog. Use force to break up the clog and remove it. After removing the clog, flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining debris.

Plunger can be used for clogs that are not too severe. Create a seal around the drain with the plunger and then pump it up and down to create suction. This suction can help to dislodge the clog and allow water to flow freely again.

Chemical Cleaning

Chemical cleaning is another method used to clean clogged empties. This process involves using chemicals to break down and dissolve the blockages.

There are different types of chemicals that can be used for this process, including acids, caustics, and enzymes. It is essential to choose the right type of chemical for the job, as using the wrong one can damage the pipes.

Chemical cleaning is generally a faster method than manual cleaning, and it can be done without removing the pipes. However, it can be dangerous if not done correctly, as the chemicals used can be harmful to both humans and the environment.

Preventative Measures for Empties

Regular Maintenance: The best way to prevent clogged empties is to perform regular maintenance. Make sure to clean your drains and pipes regularly to avoid any blockages.

Proper Disposal: One of the main causes of clogged empties is improper disposal of waste. Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet and dispose of food waste properly in the trash.

Install Filters: Installing filters in your sinks and shower drains can help catch debris and prevent it from entering your pipes.

Avoid Chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean your drains as they can damage your pipes and cause more harm than good. Instead, try using natural methods like baking soda and vinegar to clean your drains.

Professional Inspections: Getting your empties inspected by a professional plumber can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems. Regular inspections can save you time and money in the long run.

Regular Cleaning Schedule

Establish a Routine: The first step to preventative maintenance is to establish a regular cleaning schedule. The schedule should take into account the frequency of use and the type of waste being disposed of.

Assign Responsibility: Clearly define who is responsible for the cleaning process. Make sure the individual responsible is trained to clean and maintain the equipment correctly.

Document Cleaning: Document each cleaning and maintenance task in a logbook or computer system. Keep track of the date, time, and person who performed the task.

Inspect Regularly: Inspect the equipment regularly to identify potential problems before they escalate. Look for signs of wear and tear, cracks, leaks, and other damage that may indicate a need for repairs.

Replace Components: Empties have various components that can wear out over time. Keep a stock of replacement components on hand and replace worn-out parts promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions