So summer is in the rearview and you’re wondering what to do with your stock tank pool when it’s no longer warm enough for a swim. When the off-season arrives, the first choice is simply to drain the pool and roll the stock tank into a garage or other sheltered storage area where it can stay dry for the winter. If that’s not an option, there are plenty of other ways to winterize a stock tank pool, depending on where you live.
For moderate climates, it’s OK to turn off the pump filter but leave the stock tank full. That said, you should still cover the pool so that the water doesn’t get exceptionally gross while it’s not in use. If you live somewhere that gets cold but not that cold (i.e., no extended periods in which the temperature remains below freezing), you can leave the stock tank filled and fend off the effects of an occasional frost by adding some tennis balls or other floating objects that will agitate the water and keep it from icing over. Finally, for regions that experience really wintry weather, your best bet is to drain the pool completely and either turn it upside down or use a hard cover to keep moisture out and prevent rusting. (Assuming the garage or shed option is out, that is.)
These are the best DIY methods for winterizing a stock tank pool in different climates. Still, it’s worth noting that you can buy equipment to do the job for you no matter where you live. A de-icer is a handy tool that keeps the water warm year-round—just keep in mind that it will run up your electric bill and, if you’re not using your stock tank to keep actual animals hydrated, it might not be worth the expense.