Drain Above Ground Pool

[Ogre]

I didn't get to tend to my 24' above ground pool much last year and it is filled with leaves, dirt and other debris. I am in the process of draining and refilling it now, but my pump is a bit underpowered and is taking a while (on second day now). I have a few questions:

1) Can I drain the entire pool or do I have to leave a foot or so?

2) I was wondering how long I can leave the water out of the pool before I run into problems. (It will be 60 and sunny all week with lows in the upper 30s at night)

3) Is there a good way to vacuum up all all the dirt or do I have to wait until I fill the pool up and use the pool vac?

Thanks in advance.

[britinusa]

Do not drain it! you will damage your liner and need anew one.

You can drain about 30-40% but no more, and refill straight away.

As long as you vac up the debris and chem properly you should not need to drain.