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It’s that time of year again.
After a fun summer, Central Okanagan residents are starting to think about draining their pools and hot tubs, but there are things to keep in mind while doing so.
“Protecting our jewel of Okanagan Lake from improperly drained pools and hot tubs should be top-of-mind when emptying pools and cleaning hot tubs for cooler season,” says a release from the City of Kelowna.
Water containing disinfectants like chlorine, saltwater and bromine should not be drained into storm drains, there’s even a bylaw against it.
Those sewer systems flow directly into the region’s lakes and streams and should only be used if the water is dechlorinated before being drained.
Instead, residents are encouraged to drain their pools and hot tubs to a dry area on their property over a long period of time, making sure the water stays on the property.
Closing time for backyard pools, hot tubs https://t.co/z1xUfQ8n6o
— City of Kelowna (@cityofkelowna) September 11, 2019
Draining onto public parkland, natural areas or adjacent properties is prohibited and residents may be liable for damages caused by doing so, or face a fine.
Saltwater pools can be drained into the sanitary sewer system, which is directed to the Wastewater Treatment Facility and treated before being released into Okanagan Lake.
They can be identified by their circular pipe with a lid or a square container that, when opened, contains a pipe.
If you have any questions on the draining process, contact the City’s water quality department at 250-469-8887 or look for tips online.
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