Pool Intakes – Dual Main Drains

Dual Main Drains

Many states (including Texas) have begun requiring hydraulically balanced dual main drains on swimming pools. Regardless of whether your area requires it or not, it is a good idea and should be included with any pool design.

The problem with a single main drain is that all the suction is concentrated on a small area.  If a person sits on top of that drain cover, they could be held down or even disemboweled (it has happened).  Also the velocity of the suction could suck in someone’s long hair and entrap them in that manner.  An anti hair snare drain cover can help with this, but is not a sufficient substitute for a dual main drain.  

Single Main Drain

With a dual drain, the suction is balanced across the two drains.  In the event that someone sits on one drain, the suction will not hold them there.  It will simply begin drawing more water from the other drain.  It is still advisable to have an anti-vortex drain cover in place on each drain.  

Dual Main Drain