**You may not need to drain the pool.** The first option is to isolate the plumbing at the pool using properly sized winterizing plugs.

- Turn off power to the pump, including automatic controls.
- Remove the skimmer baskets and plug the **pipe openings at the bottom of the skimmers**, rather than trying to cover the skimmer mouths. Use threaded plugs where the fittings accept them, or correctly sized rubber expansion plugs. [Pentair describes using skimmer plugs for winterizing.](https://www.pentair.com/en-us/education-support/water-education-center/pool-and-spa-education/how-to-winterize-a-pool.html)
- Isolate the return lines too, along with any separate main-drain or cleaner lines connected to the plumbing you’re replacing. Below-water equipment needs isolation on **both suction and return sides**. [Pentair pump manual](https://flowandfiltrationsolutions.pentair.com/content/dam/extranet/nam/pentair-pool/residential/pumps/whisperflo-vst/user-guide/whisperflo-vst-install-and-users-guide.pdf)

A separate main-drain line can make this difficult; if it cannot be isolated with a working valve, a pool service company should handle that part. Verify that water flow stops through a controlled drain opening before cutting anything.

**If you do need to lower the water, a siphon could avoid needing another pump.** Fill a hose completely with water, keep its intake submerged, and place the discharge at a suitable location below the pool’s water surface. It will flow until the intake admits air or the water levels equalize. A garden hose works, but slowly.

I would avoid cutting a live line and then trying to control the flow while attaching temporary plumbing. Install working isolation valves and unions during the repair so future service is straightforward.

Also, don’t assume fully emptying the pool is safe: pool construction and groundwater conditions matter, and emptying can damage the shell or liner. [Pentair’s draining caution](https://www.pentair.com/en-us/education-support/water-education-center/pool-after-power-outage.html)