How to Keep Stock Tanks From Freezing

Keeping livestock can be a real challenge, especially when the weather turns cold. One of the biggest challenges livestock owners face is keeping the water in their stock tanks from freezing when the temperature drops below 32 degrees. Fortunately, there are some ways for livestock owners to keep wintertime ice at bay.

Things You'll Need

  • Stock tank heater
  • Wood or concrete blocks
  • Level
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the drain plug from the stock tank, and allow all of the water to drain out of the tank. Put the drain plug in a safe place until it is needed.

    • 2

      Cut four pieces of wood to an equal thickness. You can also use concrete blocks, but they all need to be the same size. Lift up each corner of the stock tank and slide a block under each corner. Use a level to make sure the tank is not leaning.

    • 3

      Place a stock tank heater in the bottom of the tank and run the power cord to an electrical outlet. Do not actually plug in the heater until the tank has been filled.

    • 4

      Replace the drain plug and fill the tank. Watch the tank as it fills to make sure the water is level. After the tank has been filled, plug in the stock tank heater.

    • 5

      Keep an eye on the stock tank each morning, watching for signs of ice. If you notice a skim of ice forming on the tank you may need to adjust the settings on the stock tank heater.