City of Kelowna reminding residents to drain winter water properly as pool season returns

It’s the time of year when Okanagan residents who are lucky enough to have a swimming pool are getting it ready for the warmest months of the year.

The process takes some work and there’s a right way to do things, explains the City of Kelowna’s water quality and customer care supervisor, Ed Hoppe.

Keep things running swimmingly: drain backyard pools the right way - https://t.co/cFVFCT8smc

— City of Kelowna (@cityofkelowna) May 5, 2021

“Pools and hot tubs should be drained onto a dry area on your own property at a low-flow rate over a long period of time,” said Hoppe.

“This procedure, rather than draining into storm drains, ensures that we protect Okanagan Lake, where our drinking water comes from.”

Bylaws restrict draining residential swimming pool and hot tub water into storm drains if they contain disinfectants like chlorine, salt water or bromine.

If proper drainage is not possible, the City says that water must be dechlorinated before being drained into the storm sewer system.

Improper discharge of contaminated water can result in a fine of up to $2,000.

Residents who are unsure about proper drainage are encouraged to contact the City’s water quality department at 250-469-8887.