Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

  • A Ranch Tank pool is a galvanized steel stock tank that has been repurposed and upgraded into a premium, low-maintenance backyard swimming pool or cold plunge.
    We add a custom-fit poly liner to prevent rusting, provide comfortable seating, and allow for easy temperature control. It comes fully equipped with a filtration system, making it a luxurious and budget-friendly alternative to traditional in-ground pools.

  • 6-foot pool fits about 2 adults + 2 children comfortably.
    Best for couples, families, small patios, cold plunge.

    8-foot pool fits about 3-4 adults.
    Best for families, medium yards.

    10-foot pool fits about 5-6+ adults.
    Best for Entertaining and larger backyards.

    All pools are approximately 2 feet (24 inches) deep. Perfect for lounging, soaking, and letting kids splash safely.

  • Absolutely! And Colorado is perfect for this. The Northern Colorado cold plunge community is already thriving, with groups gathering at Horsetooth Reservoir year-round. With a heater/chiller add-on, you can maintain your ideal plunge temperature (typically 45°F–55°F) or flip it into a warm soak when it's snowing outside. Cold plunging has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and build mental resilience.

  • In most cases, no.
    Because our pools are above-ground and not permanently installed, they typically do not require a building permit in the Fort Collins area. We always recommend checking your local HOA guidelines just in case.

Installation and Preparation

  • There are three things to have ready:

    1. A solid, level surface.
      Your pool needs to sit on stable, level ground. A compacted gravel or pea gravel base works great, and a properly prepared mulch bed can work as well. The most important thing is that the area is flat, stable, and large enough for the entire pool.

    2. A clear delivery path.
      Make sure there is a clear path from the street to the pool location, at least 2.5 feet wide and with enough overhead clearance for the tank to be rolled into place.

    3. Outdoor electrical access.
      The system runs on standard 120V power. The sand filter uses approximately 1.8 amps, and the heater/chiller uses approximately 11.9 amps. Outdoor GFCI-protected electrical access should be available near the pool location. If you're preparing new outlets specifically for the pool, we recommend having the setup confirmed by a licensed electrician.

  • Yes!
    We offer full delivery and installation throughout Fort Collins and the Front Range area. Our team will deliver the pre-assembled pool, set up the pump and filtration system, and walk you through everything.

  • Yes, and it looks incredible! Install the pool first, then build the deck around it to ensure proper fit. Leave access panels to reach the pump, filter valve, and hose connections.

Heating, Chilling & Electrical

  • Yes!

    Our optional Heater/Chiller lets you enjoy your Ranch Tank well beyond the summer season. It can warm the water for comfortable soaking or cool it down for use as a cold plunge.

    The unit has a temperature range of approximately 46°F to 104°F, although actual water temperature will depend on outdoor conditions, wind, pool size, and whether the pool is covered.

    During colder Colorado weather, expect comfortable warm soaking temperatures rather than traditional hot-tub temperatures. During periods of freezing weather, we recommend taking a few simple precautions to protect the plumbing and equipment.

  • Our current pool setup runs on standard 120V power.

    • The sand filter pump draws approximately 1.8 amps.

    • The heater/chiller draws approximately 11.9 amps.

    Both should be connected to GFCI-protected outdoor power near the pool equipment.

    If you are installing new outlets specifically for the pool, we recommend having a licensed electrician confirm the circuit capacity and outlet placement before installation.

    If your existing outdoor outlet is not GFCI-protected, let us know before delivery so we can review the setup with you.

Maintenance and Care

  • Very easy. Ranch Tanks are much simpler to maintain than a traditional pool. A quick weekly routine is usually all it takes:

    • Weekly: Check the water, add chlorine as needed, skim out leaves or debris, and run the sand filter regularly to keep the water circulating and clean.

    • As needed: Check the sand filter pressure and backwash and rinse the filter when the pressure starts to rise or the water flow decreases.

    • Winter: Water typically requires less chlorine in colder temperatures. During freezing weather, make sure the plumbing and equipment are properly protected or disconnected according to our winter-use recommendations.

    Because Ranch Tanks hold much less water than a traditional swimming pool, routine maintenance is generally quick and straightforward.

  • Because Ranch Tanks use a polyethylene liner, avoid allowing concentrated pool chemicals to sit directly against the liner.

    • Never place chlorine tablets directly in the pool. Always use a floating chlorine dispenser.

    • Avoid pouring concentrated chlorine, shock, acid, or other chemicals directly onto the liner.

    • Do not mix pool chemicals together.

    • Only use pool products according to their label instructions and in quantities appropriate for your pool size.

    For routine care, simple chlorine treatment and proper water balance are usually all that is needed.

  • You have two options:

    1. Use it through the winter.
      With a heater and cover, you can continue using your Ranch Tank during colder months. During freezing weather, however, we recommend disconnecting and draining the exposed plumbing and equipment to protect them from freeze damage.

    2. Drain and winterize it.
      If you do not plan to use the pool during winter, fully drain the tank, disconnect the pump and hoses, and store the equipment indoors until spring.

  • Yes, we strongly recommend using a cover.

    A cover helps keep leaves, pine needles, cottonwood fluff, and other debris out of the water. It also reduces evaporation and helps the pool maintain its temperature more efficiently, which is especially useful when using the heater/chiller.

    Using a cover regularly can also reduce cleaning and help lower heating and cooling costs.

Ordering, Delivery & Warranty

  • Typical delivery and installation in the Fort Collins and Northern Colorado area takes approximately 1-3 weeks from the time you place your order. Lead times may vary during peak summer season.

  • Every Ranch Tank Co. pool package includes:

    • Heavy-duty galvanized stock tank

    • Smooth polyethylene interior liner

    • Sand filter pump system

    • Skimmer net

    • Floating chlorine dispenser

    • Chlorine tablets

    • pH test strips

    • Pool thermometer

    • Complete setup and care guide

    Optional upgrades include:

    • Heater & Chiller for heating or cooling your pool

    • Black solar pool cover

  • Ranch Tank Co. provides 1 year of technical support with every pool we install.

    Individual components, including the pump and heater/chiller, are also covered by their respective manufacturer warranties, which may vary by product.

    If you experience an issue with your pool or equipment, contact us first and we’ll help troubleshoot the problem and guide you through the warranty process if needed.

  • We offer a 14-Day Happiness Guarantee.

    You’re welcome to fill and use your Ranch Tank during the first 14 days after delivery. If you decide it isn’t the right fit, contact us within 14 days of the delivery date.

    To qualify for a refund, the pool and all included equipment must be returned clean, undamaged, unmodified, and in good working condition.

    A $250 return processing fee will be deducted from your refund.

    Once the pool and equipment have been returned, inspected, and approved, the remaining balance will be refunded to your original payment method.

    For cancellations made before delivery, a 3% processing fee applies.