Kurt,

Thanks for the info - yes, I have two drains in the deep end a few feet apart with some kind of cover screwed over them. Thanks for explaining how those work! I have instruction manuals for all my equipment, but not my plumbing!

I will take your advice on taking the vacuum out of the pool. The kids will be glad to not have it in there anyway.

Does that mean I can safely drain my water below the level of the skimmer and it won't get excess air into my pump since it will pull water from the main drains?

Thanks,
Nicole