replacing main drain cover

[vinouspleasure]

So, the cover for our main drain is gone:
- where can I order a new one? Is there a standard cover?
- The main drain is about 8.5 under water. I don't scuba. Any tips for fixing this other than 1) drain 4 feet of water or 2) learn to scuba (or hire a scuba man)?
- Is this dangerous? It seems to me I've heard of kids being pulled into the main drain...seems farfetched...

tia,
jd

[GHM]

Yes, leaving a main drain without a cover is dangerous. Fix it asap !
I would not bother draining any water. diving down 8' or 4' really doesn't make much difference.
Before doing any work near the drain. TURN OFF THE PUMP!
Get yourself a mask and snorkle and dive down and see of you can find a manufacturers name and model on it. Probably won't because they are usually printed on the cover. In this case measure the diameter of the drain hole and mounting screw spacing. Check that the mounting screw holes are in good shape while you are there.
Just about any pool store should have replacement covers to fit yours.
Diving down yourself is not hard, just take your time and do it in as many up and down trips and you need. To help you stay down while attaching the new cover I find it helps to gently lower a heavy cement block with a rope to the bottom of the pool and use that to grab onto so you don't float back up.
Just a reminder, ALWAYS TURN THE PUMP OFF WHILE WORKING NEAR THE MAIN DRAIN.

Good luck
George

[vinouspleasure]

thanks for the suggestions. I have a mask and snorkel...the cement block with a rope will be a little harder to find. I suppose I can try to make one...I think it will be easier if I tie the rope around my ankle...just kidding...

[GHM]

.I think it will be easier if I tie the rope around my ankle...just kidding...

You still need something heavy to tie to the other end of the rope.

Anything heavy enough to hold on to will do, as long and it doesn't damage the pool surface.
I only suggested this tip as I have a hard time staying down when inserting the screws. I needed something to hang onto and hold me steady while using the screwdriver.

[imfignewton]

A better way to stay on the bottom is to use an over sized belt and add some weights (the ones with holes in the middle). If your old main drain cover is not an antivortex cover I would look into finding one, you will probably need longer screws with the antivortex cover. Hope this helps

[GHM]

A better way to stay on the bottom is to use an over sized belt and add some weights (the ones with holes in the middle).

ONLY IF YOUR AN EXPERIENCED DIVER AND EXCELENT SWIMMER. !!

With a weight on the pool floor if you run out of breath you just let go.

[imfignewton]

You should not add so many wieghts that you could not push off the bottom and easily glide to the top of the water. Many leak detection companies have the equipment to stay under water and would replace the main drain cover.