Help.How to empty returns to fix leak?

[JohnT]

You can empty the returns by using a blower and slowly screwing the winter caps on the ends while they are bubbling. Look around for pool closing information and follow that part of the winterizing procedure.

[KurtV]

Val,
When my leak was fixed the plumber just threaded plugs into all the returns. After that, the leak itself should take care of draining the damaged return line.