The ULTIMATE Stock Tank Pool DIY Setup Guide (3 easy steps)!
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Step 1: Tank size and location
Backyard Stock tank pool by @astrollthrulife
Flat & Level No matter where you put your pool, you'll need two things for its location: 1) it should be flat: free of rocks, roots, and humps, and 2) the location should be level (minimal or no slope). Many owners already have a spot in their yard that fits this requirement, but double-check with a construction level and visual inspection first. Consider leveling the area with a shovel and some sand.
Decks We highly recommend against placing stock tank pools on decks, due to their weight. An 8' stock tank weighs as much as a large SUV when filled, so it’s best to build a deck around the tank.
⚠️ Safety and drowning prevention PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE don’t underestimate the drowning risk of stock tank pools, especially for young children. No matter their size, pools present a significant drowning risk and it is up to you to decide whether a pool of any kind is right for you. See our Pool Safety and Drowning Prevention Guide for 5 tips to make your pool safe.
Pick a size and shape
Round or oval? There are two shapes of stock tanks. Round tanks are larger, better for multiple people and kids, allowing room to spread out. Oval stock tanks are long and skinny, so they're better suited for one or two people. That said, the 8’ round stock tank is by far the most popular.
Round sizes The largest of the stock tanks, round shapes come in two sizes (These tanks have 2' tall sides):
8' diameter (The Big Kahuna) is the most popular for families - the 8' tank can accommodate up to 4 adults or 5 children
6' diameter (The Watering Hole) is good for couples or small families - the 6' tank can hold two adults easily
Note: there are other sizes up to 14' but these two are the most common
Oval sizes have more sizes to choose from, but we recommend three:
3' x 8' (2' tall) this is the largest oval tank. It can hold up to two adults, or one comfortably. Bonus: it has room for your air mattress!
2' x 6' (2' tall) holds one adult comfortably or two kids. It's just long enough to "stretch out" but is best for sitting
2' x 4' (2' tall) this is the $99 tank that gets you started for about the cost of a grocery run! It's compact, so we dubbed it the "tiny home" of stock tank pools. It gets the job done!
Check out one of the kits!
3' x 8' Oval Stock tank pool
Step 2: Install the filter pump
One of the most important ways to keep your pool looking clean and feeling fresh all summer is to add a cartridge filter pump. It’s filters debris and circulates water. Designed for above ground pools, these pumps are a simple DIY to install on a stock tank pool with the Starter Kit from Swimmly. For more info, see the parts list below!
Swimmly’s Stock Tank Pool Starter Kit includes:
Proprietary Inlet and Outlet Connector Fittings: Fancy talk for “these make your filter pump work like a dream.”
Vacuum Head, Hose, Pole and Suction Adapter: Buh-bye, bottom sediment! Keep your tank spotless without lifting a finger.
Hose Adapters for 1-¼” hoses (2x): We won’t judge the size of your hose. Big or small, we welcome filter pumps (and hoses) of all sizes.
Filter Changing Caps (2x): Swap filters without losing water faster than your neighbor can ask, “What’s that thing?”
Floating Chlorine Dispenser with Thermometer: Keeps your pool fresh, clean, and tells your tank’s temp. It’s the multitasker you didn’t know you needed.
Hole Saw with Arbor: A glorified hole-puncher for tanks. Drilling? Easy-peasy.
What you’ll need:
A stock tank (galvanized or plastic—your choice, your kingdom).
A drill (for that fancy hole saw).
A filter pump for above-ground pools (compatible with 1-½” or 1-¼” hoses). Either a 1,000 gal/hr or a 1,500 gal/hr filter pump will work.
1” Chlorine Tabs: Amazon (2-3 tabs per week)
(Optional) 100% Silicone Caulk: Amazon
Step 3: Keep your water clear and blue all summer!
Stock Tank Pool by @Hill_Country_ FARM_CHick
The last step is to maintain the water in your pool throughout the summer. Stock tank pools are great when they're clean and clear. They're not so great when murky, grimy, and full of debris, so don't forget that stock tank pools require maintenance and upkeep.
Maintaining your water
Once you’ve installed the filter pump, simply add one or two 1” chlorinating tabs each week and use a skimmer net to remove larger debris like leaves, twigs, and bugs. In addition, you’ll need to replace the filter occasionally, which can last between 2 weeks and 2 months, depending on much dirt and debris gets in your pool. More details are in the video below. Here is the kit we recommend:
Floating Chlorine Dispenser: Amazon
1” Chlorinating Tabs: Amazon (1-2 tabs per week)
Skimmer Net: Amazon
Foam Filters: Stock Tank Pool Store
Or Intex Cartridge Filters: Amazon
Upgrade your filters!
(Step 3 Cont.) To maintain your stock tank pool, buy these!
Not interested in filters? Go with a sand pump filter!
Safety
NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN UNATTENDED IN A POOL. Pools present a drowning risk, no matter their size or depth. Children should never be left unattended in a pool, whether stock tanks or not. Even though a stock tank is 2' shallow they still present a drowning and safety hazard. Children and adults can drown in as little 6" of water. It is up to you evaluate whether a pool, stock tank or not, is safe for you and your family. And just for good measure, we'll say it again NEVER LEAVE CHILDREN UNATTENDED IN A POOL.
For more information, please see our pool safety and drowning prevention page.
Disclaimer
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