How to Set Up Your Stock Tank Pool: Easy DIY Guide
Create a backyard oasis with a stock tank pool! Our DIY Stock Tank Pool Pump Kit or All-in-One Deluxe DIY Stock Tank Pool Kit with Blue Water Vacuum makes setup simple and fast, with detailed instructions included for a seamless experience. Follow this simplified guide to enjoy crystal-clear water in just a weekend, and refer to your kit’s in-depth manual for extra tips.
Why a Stock Tank Pool?
Stock tank pools are affordable, durable, and perfect for any yard. Made from galvanized steel, they resist rust and fit small spaces, offering a chic alternative to pricey pools. Choose our DIY Pump Kit for essentials or the Deluxe Kit with Vacuum for easy cleaning—both include comprehensive guides to ensure success.
What You’ll Need
Our DIY Stock Tank Pool Pump Kit includes:
- Pool pump and filter: Keeps water clean and safe.
- Fittings and hoses: Pre-assembled for quick setup.
- 2.75" hole saw with arbor: Cuts precise holes.
- Waterproof silicone sealant: Ensures no leaks.
- Detailed instructions: Step-by-step manual with pro tips (more in-depth than this guide).
Upgrade to the All-in-One Deluxe Kit with Blue Water Vacuum for all the above, plus:
- Blue Water Vacuum: Weighted head, 10ft hose, and 5ft pole to keep your pool spotless.
- Skimmer net: Removes floating debris easily.
- Detailed instructions: Comprehensive manual for setup and vacuum use
You’ll also need:
- Stock tank: 6ft or 8ft, available at feed stores or Tractor Supply.
- Cordless drill: We recommend the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit for reliable drilling.
- PPE (required for safety): We recommend NoCry Safety Glasses and Honeywell Leightning Ear Protection for drilling.
- A Level Surface: Be sure to have an outlet near by!
Step-by-Step Stock Tank Pool Setup with Our DIY Kits
1. Choose the Ideal Location
Pick a flat, sunny spot with:
- No overhanging trees to reduce debris.
- Access to water and a GFCI outlet for the pump.
- Space for lounging or seating.
- A stable base prevents leaks, if you don't have a level surface, here are some tips on how to make one:
- Clear grass, rocks, or roots.
- Dig a flat area, 2-4 inches deep.
- Add sand or gravel and tamp it down.
- Check with a level for evenness.
2. Clean the Tank
Prep your stock tank:
- Scrub inside with soap and water.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove residue.
- Dry to inspect for defects.
3. Drill Holes Safely with PPE
Your DIY Pump Kit or Deluxe Kit includes a 2.75" hole saw and detailed instructions for precise cuts:
- Wear PPE: Use NoCry Safety Glasses and Honeywell Leightning Ear Protection to shield against shards and noise—drilling takes about 90 seconds per hole.
- Drill: Use the a cordless drill, such as our favorite the Milwaukee M18 FUEL 1/2 in. Drill/Driver Kit, for steady, powerful cuts.
- Mark two holes: one 3-6 inches from the bottom (inlet) and one a few inches below the top waterline (outlet), about 3 feet apart for optimal circulation (see your kit’s manual for exact placement tips).
Safety Tip: PPE and a quality drill like the Milwaukee make drilling metal safe and efficient—don’t skip them! Your kit’s instructions offer more safety details.
4. Install the Pump and Fittings
Our kits’ pre-assembled fittings simplify plumbing, with detailed steps in the included manual:
- Attach the inlet strainer and outlet jet using fittings from your DIY Pump Kit or Deluxe Kit.
- Apply the included silicone sealant around holes (inside and out) to prevent leaks.
- Connect hoses to the pump per instructions.
- Test the pump for smooth water flow.
5. Fill the Pool
Add water:
- Fill slowly with a hose, checking for leaks.
- Stop 4-6 inches from the top for safety.
- Run the pump to circulate water (your kit’s manual includes water level tips).
See it In Action
Watch this quick video to see how easy it is to set up your pool using our DIY Kits
Maintaining Your Stock Tank Pool
Keep your pool sparkling with guidance from your kit’s detailed manual:
- Test water weekly: Check pH and chlorine levels.
- Run the pump daily: 4-6 hours for circulation.
- Clean debris: Use the skimmer net (included with the Deluxe Kit) for leaves.
- Vacuum as needed: The Deluxe Kit’s Blue Water Vacuum removes sand and grime from the pool floor.
- Winterize: Drain and store in cold climates.
Why Choose Our DIY Stock Tank Pool Kits?
- Complete solutions: Pump, fittings, sealant, and hole saw in both kits.
- Detailed guidance: Each kit comes with a comprehensive manual—more in-depth than this guide—for confident setup and maintenance.
- Safe setup: Pair with NoCry Safety Glasses, Honeywell Leightning Ear Protection, and the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Drill for secure drilling.
- Deluxe cleaning: The All-in-One Deluxe Kit adds a vacuum and skimmer for effortless upkeep.
Ready to dive in? Shop our DIY Stock Tank Pool Pump Kit for essentials or the All-in-One Deluxe Kit with Blue Water Vacuum for ultimate convenience. Questions? Contact us for expert help.
Happy splashing!