As many residents are busy preparing their swimming pools and hot tubs for summer enjoyment, the City of Kelowna is reminding residents of the proper procedure to drain winter pool water without putting a strain on the environment.

Residents are encouraged to consider the following when draining their pools and hot tubs.

·         Drain to a dry area on the property over a long period of time

·         Discharge the water at a low flow rate

·         Make sure the water stays on the property

·         Stop draining if it starts raining

·         Salt water pools can drain directly into the sanitary sewer system

“Knowing how to properly drain your pool or hot tub is important to help protect our water systems,” says Mike Gosselin, Wastewater Treatment Supervisor. “Disinfectants keep pools and hot tubs clean from bacteria, but can damage our water supply if they enter our storm systems as they flow directly into the lake.”

To help protect the environment, the Sanitary Sewer/Storm Drain Regulation Bylaw restricts the discharge of residential swimming pool and hot tub water containing disinfectants such as chlorine, salt water and bromine. If pool water containing these disinfectants is drained into the storm sewer system, they are then released into Okanagan Lake and local streams untreated. If proper drainage on the property is not possible, the water must be dechlorinated before being drained into the storm sewer system.

Storm sewers are the catch basins or grates on the road usually found by a sidewalk. These drain into the storm sewer system, which connect directly into Okanagan Lake and local streams. The sanitary sewer system on individual properties is identified by the circular pipe with lid or a square container that, when opened, contains a pipe (the container may be marked with SEWER). The sanitary sewer system is directed to the City’s Wastewater Treatment Facility and is treated before being released into the lake.

Residents are asked to contact the City's Water Quality department before draining their pool or hot tub to ensure they are draining into the correct system.  Improper discharge of contaminated water can result in a fine of up to $2,000.

For more information call 250 469-8887 or visit kelowna.ca/utilities, under water drainage.

News from © iNFOnews, 2013