How to Winterize Your Stock Tank Pool

As the temperatures drop, it’s important to properly winterize your stock tank pool to protect it from damage and make spring setup easier. Whether you plan to shut it down completely or keep it running with a heater, here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your pool ready for the colder months.

Step 1: Remove Accessories and Clean the Pool

Start by taking out all floats, drink holders, chlorine floaters, and other accessories. Give your pool a thorough cleaning — scrub away algae, wipe down the sides, and vacuum or scoop out any leaves or debris. The cleaner your pool is when you close it, the less work you’ll have in the spring.

Step 2: Don't Bother Draining

• For galvanized tanks: Hastings actually recommends keeping water in the tank to keep the seals from drying out. For this reason, we highly recommend leaving your water in the pool year-round.

• For poly tanks: You can either drain fully or leave water in with a cover.

  
  

Step 3: Disconnect Pumps, Heaters, and Plumbing

Remove and store your pump, filter, and heater indoors. Freezing temperatures can crack or ruin these components if they’re left outside with water inside. Make sure everything is completely drained before storing.

Step 4: Protect the Tank

• If drained: Lift your tank and roll to a location where it will not collect water

• If kept full: Once removing the chlorine float, Use an inflatable cover or floating pool pillow with tarp or other cover to keep water and debris from getting in the tank over winter.

  
  

Step 5: Store Accessories Properly

Clean and dry all hoses, filters, and attachments before storing them in a dry location. This prevents mold, cracking, and damage so you can reuse them next season.

Step 6: Optional — Keep It Running Year-Round

If you want to enjoy your stock tank pool as a hot tub in the colder months, you can add a propane or electric heater and keep water circulating. Just be sure to monitor water chemistry and protect exposed hoses from freezing.