Drain pools properly
Photo: Contributed
The city of Kelowna is a reminder to residents to keep things running smoothly by properly draining backyard pools.
With summer on the horizon, it’s time to get the pools ready for the season.
When preparing pools, hot tubs, or other water features in the garden, residents are reminded to ensure that they are following proper procedures for draining winter water.
“Pools and hot tubs should be drained to a dry area on your own property for a long period of time at low flow rates,” said Ed Hoppe, water quality and customer care supervisor.
“This procedure ensures that we protect the Okanagan Lake, from which our drinking water comes, instead of flowing into rain gutters.”
The city ordinance limits the discharge of water from residential and hot tubs, which contains disinfectants such as chlorine, salt water and bromine, into rain drains. To protect the environment. If proper drainage is not possible, the water must be dechlorinated before it is discharged into the storm sewer.
Local residents unsure of proper drainage are encouraged to contact the city’s water quality department at 250-469-8887 before emptying their pool or hot tub to ensure they are properly drained.
Improper discharge of contaminated water can result in a fine of up to $ 2,000.
