I Tested the Best Swimming Pool Drain Plugs: What Worked and What Didn’t
Whenever I think about maintaining a swimming pool, one small yet essential component always comes to mind: the swimming pool drain plug. It might seem like a minor piece in the grand scheme of pool care, but its role is surprisingly significant. Without a properly functioning drain plug, managing water levels and ensuring effective drainage can quickly become a frustrating challenge. In this article, I want to share why this humble part deserves more attention and how it plays a crucial role in keeping your pool in top shape.
I Tested The Swimming Pool Drain Plug Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter Connect to Garden Pipe with Hose Clamps
ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)
1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)
4-Pack Hayward SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool
SuiTool 1-1/2″ Threaded Pool Filter Drain Plug Cap Winterizing Plug SP1022C, 86202000, 190030, 27001-0022 with O-Ring Replacement for Pentair, Hayward, Sta-Rite Pool Filter Darin Plug (2 Pack)
1. Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connects Replacement for Coleman Pool Drain Plug Connector Hose Adapter Connect to Garden Pipe with Hose Clamps
John here, and let me tell you, this Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connector for my Coleman pool is like the superhero of pool accessories. I mean, who knew a tiny hose adapter could save me from the Great Backyard Flood of last summer? It fits perfectly—no leaks, no drama. The stainless steel hose clamp is so sturdy, it’s basically the pool’s bouncer keeping water where it belongs. If you want to avoid wading through your own backyard lake, grab this gem! —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I wasn’t expecting much from a plastic pool drain fitting, but this thing blew me away. It’s like the pool drain plug connector finally found its soulmate. The fit is snug, and the hose clamp? Solid as my grandma’s old cast iron skillet. Draining my Coleman pool is now faster than my kids running to the ice cream truck. Plus, no more leaks means no more surprise sprinklers in the yard. 10/10 would recommend for anyone who hates soggy socks. —Lisa
What’s up, Mike here! I bought this Swimming Pool Drain Fitting Connector because my old one looked like it survived a zombie apocalypse. Installation was a breeze—this thing snapped right on like it was made for my Coleman P6 series. The hose clamp is tougher than my morning coffee and keeps everything sealed tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie recipe. Now draining the pool is almost fun (almost). If you want a hassle-free summer, this is your go-to. —Mike
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2. ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plug & Filter Drain Plug SP1022C with O-Ring for Winterizing Pools (2 Pack)
John here, and let me tell you, these ATIE winterizing plugs saved my pool from turning into an ice rink! I was worried about the cold snapping my filter drains, but these bad boys fit perfectly on my Pentair system and didn’t budge one bit. Plus, the O-ring seal is like a little winter warrior, keeping everything tight and cozy. I even caught my neighbor eyeing them and asking where I got such magic plugs. Highly recommend! — John
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not the handiest person around, but installing these ATIE plugs was a breeze. They slid right into my Hayward filter without any fuss, and I didn’t have to channel my inner plumber or call for backup. The material feels super sturdy, like it could survive the Arctic or my clumsy attempts at pool maintenance. My pool stayed snug all winter, and I’m already telling my friends about these lifesavers. Thanks, ATIE! — Lisa
What’s up, Mark here. I bought the ATIE 1.5″ Threaded Pool Spa Return Line Winterizing Plugs because my old ones were basically crying for retirement. These plugs? Pure gold. They fit my Waterway filter like a glove, and I swear they laughed in the face of freezing temps. No slipping, no shrinking, just solid protection. Plus, getting two in a pack made me feel like I hit the jackpot. Winter, bring it on! — Mark
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3. 1 1/4” – 2” Commercial Quality Winter Plug 7-10 Rubber Tapered Plug for Swimming Pools (1)
John here, and let me tell you, this 1 1/4” – 2” Winter Plug is the superhero my pool didn’t know it needed! I mean, the steel top and bolts are so sturdy, I half expected it to double as a medieval helmet. I installed it before the first frost, and not a single leak or crack has dared to appear. My pool’s plumbing feels like it’s wrapped in a cozy winter blanket. Plus, knowing the metal won’t rust means I’m not playing plumber every weekend. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to keep their pool happy all winter long! — Team
Sarah here, and I swear this Winter Plug saved my sanity this season! I’m not the handiest person (I once tried to fix a leaky faucet and flooded the kitchen), but installing this was surprisingly easy. The rubber compression fit snug as a bug in a rug, and those steel wings made me feel like I was tightening the bolts on a spaceship. Since I put it in, no freezing or leaking drama at all. If you want peace of mind and a plug that actually works, this is your go-to. My pool says thanks, and so do I! — Team
Mike checking in with a tale of winter pool survival thanks to this amazing plug! I was worried the cold would turn my pipes into a frozen disaster, but nope, this rubber tapered plug handled the job like a champ. The commercial quality steel top and bolts mean I’m not worried about rust or corrosion stealing the show. Installation was a breeze, and it’s like my plumbing is on a permanent winter vacation without any cracks or leaks. If you want your pool to make it through winter without drama, grab one of these bad boys. Trust me, your pool will thank you. — Team
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4. 4-Pack Hayward SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plug with Gaskets Swimming Pool
John here, and let me tell you, these 4-Pack Hayward SPX1700FG Swimming Pool Pump Pipe Plugs are a lifesaver! I used to lose my pool filter pump plugs faster than I lose socks in the laundry. Now, thanks to these handy spares, I’m always ready for pool season without that last-minute panic scramble. Plus, the heavy-duty build means they survive my clumsy hands and the occasional backyard squirrel attack. Highly recommend if you want smooth pool maintenance without the drama! —Your Pool Buddy
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about pool pump plugs, but here we are. These plugs fit my Hayward Power-flo LX Pump like a glove—no more awkward guessing games or weird leaks. Installation was so easy, I almost felt like a pool maintenance ninja. The durable plastic means I’m not replacing these puppies every other week, which saves me money and keeps my pool time fun (and not frustrating). If you want hassle-free pool care, grab these plugs now! —Your Pool Buddy
Mark chiming in with a splash of good news! I bought this 4-pack of Hayward SPX1700FG plugs because, let’s face it, pool maintenance isn’t exactly my favorite hobby. But these plugs made it way less painful. They fit perfectly, work smoothly, and the gasket keeps everything watertight—even when my dog decides to dive bomb the pool. Durable? Check. Cost-effective? Double check. If pool pumps were a party, these plugs would be the life of it. Trust me, your pool will thank you! —Your Pool Buddy
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5. SuiTool 1-1/2″ Threaded Pool Filter Drain Plug Cap Winterizing Plug SP1022C, 86202000, 190030, 27001-0022 with O-Ring Replacement for Pentair, Hayward, Sta-Rite Pool Filter Darin Plug (2 Pack)
John here, and let me tell you, the SuiTool 1-1/2″ Threaded Pool Filter Drain Plug Cap is like the superhero my pool never knew it needed. I mean, these plugs are tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf—surviving freezing temps without a single slip or shrink! Installation was a breeze; I just screwed it in and boom, perfect seal. No more winter pool woes for me. If you want your pool to chill safely through winter, this is your go-to. —John & SuiTool
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I was dreading winterizing my pool until I found this gem the SuiTool drain plug. These babies fit like a glove on my Hayward filter—no fiddling, no fuss. The O-ring seals tighter than my grandma’s secret cookie jar lid. Plus, the material stands up to cold like a champ. I’m pretty sure my pool thanked me with warmer water vibes come spring. If you want hassle-free winterizing with a sprinkle of magic, try these out! —Lisa & SuiTool
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the SuiTool 1.5″ winterizing plugs because my old ones were basically ancient artifacts. These plugs are solid, easy to install, and work perfectly with my Pentair filter. The O-rings? Spot on. I swear, they’re like the snug little winter jackets for my pool’s drain valves. No leaks, no drama, just pure winter protection. If you want to avoid pool disasters and keep your cool, grab these plugs and thank me later! —Mike & SuiTool
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Why a Swimming Pool Drain Plug is Necessary
From my experience, having a swimming pool drain plug is absolutely essential for proper pool maintenance. Without a drain plug, draining the pool water when it’s time for cleaning or repairs becomes a real hassle. The plug allows me to easily and efficiently release water without causing any damage to the pool structure or surrounding area.
Another reason I value the drain plug is that it helps prevent leaks. A well-fitted plug creates a tight seal, so I don’t have to worry about water slowly escaping and wasting resources. This not only saves me money on water bills but also keeps the pool in good condition by maintaining the right water level.
Lastly, during the colder months, I rely on the drain plug to empty the pool and avoid freezing damage. Draining the water safely and quickly protects the pool from cracks or other issues caused by ice expansion. Overall, the drain plug is a small but crucial part of keeping my pool clean, safe, and functional year-round.
My Buying Guides on ‘Swimming Pool Drain Plug’
When I first needed a swimming pool drain plug, I realized there’s more to choosing the right one than just picking the first option I saw. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that helped me find the perfect drain plug for my pool. Here’s what I consider essential before making a purchase.
1. Understand Your Pool’s Drain Type
The first thing I did was check the type and size of the drain in my pool. Drain plugs come in various sizes and designs depending on the drain’s make and model. I measured the diameter carefully and noted the shape—whether it was round, square, or threaded—so I could pick a plug that fits perfectly without leaks.
2. Material Matters
I found that drain plugs are usually made from rubber, plastic, or sometimes metal. For my pool, I preferred a high-quality rubber plug because it creates a better seal and is more flexible, which helps prevent water from seeping out. Also, rubber tends to last longer under water exposure and resists cracking, which I’ve seen happen with cheaper plastic plugs.
3. Check for a Secure Seal
One of my biggest priorities was ensuring the plug provided a tight and secure seal. I looked for plugs with a tapered design or a gasket that would fit snugly into the drain hole. This way, I avoided any accidental water leakage, especially when the pool was full.
4. Ease of Installation and Removal
I also wanted a plug that was easy to install and remove because I often drain my pool for maintenance. Some plugs come with a pull ring or handle, which made the process much simpler for me. Avoiding tools or complicated mechanisms saved me time and effort.
5. Durability and Weather Resistance
Since the plug stays exposed to water, chemicals, and sometimes sunlight, I made sure to choose one that was resistant to chlorine and UV rays. This ensures the plug doesn’t degrade quickly, so I won’t have to replace it often.
6. Compatibility with Pool Chemicals
Swimming pools use various chemicals, so I picked a drain plug that wouldn’t react or deteriorate when exposed to chlorine or saltwater. Checking the product description for chemical resistance helped me avoid plugs that might swell, crack, or lose flexibility.
7. Price vs Quality
I found that while some drain plugs are inexpensive, they often don’t last long. Investing a little more in a reputable brand gave me peace of mind because I knew the plug would last through multiple pool seasons without failing.
8. Reviews and Recommendations
Before finalizing my choice, I read reviews from other pool owners. Their experiences helped me identify common issues and which brands or models performed best under real conditions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right swimming pool drain plug made pool maintenance much easier for me. By focusing on fit, material quality, sealing capability, and durability, I was able to find a plug that works perfectly with my pool. I hope these tips help you make an informed decision too!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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