There's a 1/2" PVC drain pipe at the bottom that is capped. Do sand filters ever 'need' to be drained as part of regular maintenance? I don't want to put a wrench on it if I don't have to because it looks like something that will break.

The filter has been out in the hot Texas sun for at least 10 years, and the paint has faded back to expose the raw fiberglass strand wrapping. What type of paint is best to recoat?

Thanks,

TW