Pool Intakes – Drain Covers

Drain Covers

The pool drain cover should be an anti-vortex type as shown in the first diagram.  Notice that the plate on top of the drain is a solid flat plate.  It is raised off of the drain and the water enters around the side of the cover. 

The second drawing is of a standard drain cover.  It is generally flush with the bottom of the pool and the water enters through the cover because it is more like a grate. 

The danger in the standard type of cover (second diagram) is that someone could sit on top of it and be held in place by the suction.  Be alert to any drain covers that are not anti-vortex and close the pool until they are brought into compliance.

Anti-vortex drain cover (required in most cases)