Generally, not really. The pool should not get too hot to the touch in the sunshine, though we do suggest keeping the pool at least partially shaded. Put it under a tree or try one of our umbrellas for shade. You can use foam noodles you can place over the rim of your Tankkd  Pool to add cushion and protection.

Stock tank pools do just fine in winter in most climates. There are a few options: You can heat your Tankkd  Pool with one of our heater systems. You can keep the pump running to keep the water flowing, so the pool water doesn’t freeze. You will need to keep your pool water maintainted throughout that time. Or you can drain your pool and pump of water and keeping it covered until you’re ready to use it again (this option we do not recommend, because there is a higher risk of the tank rusting over time).

We recommend keeping your pool filled with water and having the water pumping throughout the year. Surprisingly, keeping water in the pool at all times minimizes the chance of rust. , it’s a good idea to keep your Tankkd  Pool filled with water and circulating, rather than “winterizing” your pool.

In the cooler months, you need to use much less chlorine. We recommend about one tab per 2 week to as little as one tab per month when it starts to cool down.

In freezing temperatures, switch your timer to “On” to program your pool to circulate, until the temperature outside rises above freezing. *You do not want freezing water in your pool or pump.

IN THE CASE OF A LIGHT FREEZE LASTING 1-2 DAYS:

• Flip the switch on your timer to “On” so that the pool water continues circulating during freezing weather. Stagnant water means frozen water. Keep the water flowing until the temps rise above freezing. Flip the switch on your timer to “On” so that the pool water continues circulating during freezing weather. Stagnant water means frozen water.
• Keep the water flowing until the temps rise above freezing For additional insulation and protection against the elements, cover your pump, filter and hoses with blankets or towels. If you have one of our Heater Systems, and as long as you keep your filter pump running (Step 1), water will be flowing through and there’s no need to follow freeze protocol just yet.

IN THE CASE OF AN EXTREME FREEZE LASTING LONGER THAN A COUPLE DAYS:

• Unplug your pool pump.
• Close the valves from the inlet outlet from the tank.
• Unscrew the clear pump pot basket lid from your pump. This will help prevent the water in your pump from expanding and cracking the unit. If your lid is frozen, pour a cup of warm water over the top to help loosen it up.
• Put your filter multiport valve in WINTERIZE position. For bestway pumps, this is between Rinse and Filter. If your valve is frozen, pour warm water over the top to help loosen it.
• If you have a Wood heather : open the valve and let the water flue out of the heather.
• Put the pump in a dry not freezing place.

IN THE CASE OF A LIGHT

pH and alkalinity tend to follow one another. If you’re primarily using chlorine tabs in your pool you will most probably see low pH (and alkalinity) because tabs are acidic. pH can be raised with sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). Start with 1/4 to 1/2 cup of baking soda to raise the pH and always have pump running when adding chemicals (chlorine also) swirl around and let pump run for 30-45 minutes. Then retest to see the change. Fresh water can also be added since most city water is on the high end of pH.

DO NOT use pool shock, muriatic acid or algaecide on your Tankkd Pool as it can damage the galvanized coating on the steel. Shock powder can be tempting, but it’s much too powerful for our small pools and is full of calcium which can lead to scale buildup. Pool shock is meant for larger in-ground plaster pools only. 

Balancing the chemistry can be tricky but baby steps to correct is the best method. Always lean to light side when adding things to the pool – remember these are very small bodies of water and more chemicals can be added later.