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Stock tanks, designed originally to help provide water for farm animals are now commonly used as backyard pools and even fish ponds or garden planters. Whether regular or not, all maintenance in the stock tank demands a little bit of attention from you to allow the container to breathe and last throughout the year. Learn how to maintain your stock tanks with this ultimate guide for all seasons.
Regular Cleaning
Keeping it clean is one of the most crucial parts of keeping your stock tank. Creeks, ponds, and lakes — plastic or polyethylene reservoirs can become eyesores quickly as the surface of these water features becomes clouded with debris and algae that is not only unsightly but unhealthy for any fish living in it.
- How often: You should clean your stock tank every two to four weeks, depending on how frequently it is used and the environment in which you live.
- How: Drain all water, scrub the interior with a brush and rinse well. In case of algae control, bleach and vinegar solutions can help; however make sure to rinse the tank completely after its use so that you get rid of any chemical residue which may harm livestock or plants.
Water Quality Management
Maintaining the water quality in your stock tanks is crucial, especially if it’s used for livestock or as a pond. Poor water quality can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria and algae, posing a risk to animals and plants.
- Filtration: An excellent way to maintain a crystalline appearance, thought there may still accumulate some impurities in the water. This is especially important if your stock tank serves as a swimming pool or fish pond.
- Chemicals: If you want to put the tank and use it as a pool water, suitable for pools like chlorine or algaecides will help maintain quality. For equipment used in animal watering, we advise not to apply chemicals and instead equip your tank with barley straw or other water treatment products suitable for livestock.
- Water Circulation: Stagnant water is a breeding ground for algae and mosquitoes. Installing a small pump to keep the water circulating can significantly reduce these issues and maintain a healthier environment.
- Winterization: As temperatures drop, preparing your stock tanks for winter is essential, especially if you live in a region prone to freezing conditions.
- Insulate: insulating your stock tank is a simple way to keep the water from freezing. The answer is, using foam board insulation to further insulate the tank or wrapping it with an insulating blanket. They are also commercially available pre-insulated which can help for super cold outdoor weather.
- Heaters: If you live in an area that has particularly cold winters, then buying a stock tank heater would be well worth it. They are also used to keep the water from freezing and that helps in getting a proper flow of water for livestock or keeping tankers not frozen during winter.
- Draining: If the tank is not needed during the winter, consider draining it completely to prevent any damage from freezing water. Clean the tank thoroughly before storing it to avoid any build-up of dirt or algae over the winter months.
Preventing Rust and Corrosion
Stock tanks, especially those made of metal, are susceptible to rust and corrosion over time. Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your tank.
- Coating: Applying a protective coating, such as a rust-resistant paint or sealant, can help prevent rust from forming. Ensure that the coating is safe for the tank’s intended use, especially if it will hold water for livestock or plants.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically check your stock tank for any signs of rust or corrosion, particularly around seams and joints. Address any issues immediately by sanding the affected areas and reapplying a protective coating.
- Material Considerations: If rust is a recurring problem, you may want to consider investing in a stock tank made from a more rust-resistant material, such as plastic or galvanized steel.
Seasonal Adjustments
Depending on how you use your stock tank, seasonal adjustments may be necessary to keep it functioning optimally year-round.
- Summer: Algae growth will be a big problem in the hot days of the summer. These precarious steps and a bit of regular cleaning, as well as some kind of algae control method, will prove essential. Also, keep the water level at a standard stage as evaporation increases.
- Spring and Fall: Ideal for deep cleaning and inspecting your home, these are two key transition seasons. Inspect for winter damage and prepare the tank for increased usage in warmer months.
Taking care of your stock tanks all year long does not have to be an overwhelming chore. If you follow these tips, your stock tank will be in great working condition and give you consistent use for years to come.
