How to Calculate Your Pool Volume

Calculating the volume of your pool--that is, the amount of water it will hold--is a simple mathematical process. You need to know how long the pool is, how wide it is and how deep. To obtain the most accurate calculation, measure the length and width of the inside of your pool.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Calculator
  • Ladder
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Instructions

  1. Determine the Dimensions and Capacity of Your Pool

    • 1

      Measure the width and length of your pool. You may need a friend to hold one end of the measuring tape. If your pool is very long or wide, you may need to reposition the tape several times. Mark each point where you “end” and “begin” measuring. Note each overall measurement in feet. (Convert any number that includes inches to a decimal, for example, 12 feet, 10 inches: 12.83 feet.)

    • 2

      Measure the inside depth of the pool. You may need a friend to hold one end of the measuring tape. You may need to reposition the tape several times. Place a ladder on the bottom of the pool and stand on it if necessary. Mark each point where you “end” and “begin” measuring. Note the overall measurement in feet. (If the number includes inches convert it to a decimal, for example, 12 feet, 10 inches: 12.83 feet.)

    • 3

      Multiply the three dimensions by each other to obtain the pool’s capacity in cubic feet. For example, if the width is 16 feet, the length is 20 feet and the depth is 12 feet, multiply 16 by 20 by 12 to get the total: 3,840 cubic feet.

    • 4

      Multiply the number of cubic feet by 7.47, the number of gallons in a cubic foot. For example, 3,840 cubic feet holds 28,684.8 gallons. This is the volume of water a 16-by-20-by-12-foot pool will hold.