How to Heat Your Cowboy Pool with Ease (Stock Tank Hot Tubs)

If you've joined the growing trend of installing a stock tank pool, you might have encountered one slight hiccup—the water can get chilly and wondering how to heat a stock tank pool.

These stylish pools are perfect for staying cool on hot days.

But as the sun sets or during those chilly months, you might want to turn up the heat. 

Cowboy Pools has got you covered with simple and effective stock tank heating solutions.

Disclaimer: Purchase is limited to Cowboy Pools customers only in Austin and Houston. You must have purchased, or plan to purchase, a pool package from Cowboy Pools. Otherwise, this cannot be installed by our pool professionals. Limited heating options available for nationwide customers.

So get in with the pioneers of modern stock tank pools, and shop the Cowboy Pools collection today!

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Why Choose Cowboy Pools for Your Stock Tank Heating Needs?

Cowboy Pools strives to make every part of your stock tank pool experience enjoyable, and the perfect water temperature is key to this. 

Their range of heating options lets you transform your splash pool into a steamy soaking tub or hot tub. 

These quality heaters work like a charm to ensure you know how to heat a stock tank pool.

And are designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing Cowboy Pool setup.

That's right, no-fuss installation and operation.

The Basics of Heating a Stock Tank Pool

Before discussing the specifics of turning your tank pool into a hot tub, let's cover the basics. 

There are several options that you can choose from to create the experience you desire. Each heater has differing heating capacities and requirements. Keep in mind, external weather conditions and the size of your pool are key factors affecting its temperature. 

Cowboy Pools specializes in two main types: electric and natural gas heaters—each with its own set of benefits tailored to your lifestyle and pool usage.

Haven’t installed your stock tank pool yet? Cowboy Pools’ Honcho model provides added features for optimal heating conditions!

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Seamless Integration with Cowboy Pools' Heaters

No need to be a hot tub DIY specialist! These heaters are offered with professional installation and are designed to work flawlessly with Cowboy Pool models.

Whether you choose an electric model for consistent heating or a natural gas option for faster heat-up times, you can expect an energy-efficient system that fits right into your pool's existing infrastructure. 

Check it out!

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Cowboy Pools Heater

Installing a Cowboy Pools heater is straightforward and easy! 

Here's a quick guide to get you started:

1. Choose Your Heater: Select from our electric, natural gas or propane options based on your desired heating range and pool size.

2. Prepping for Your Heater: You will need a leveled and compacted area created for your heating equipment. For optimal performance, prepare the space for your heater within 3 feet of the pump, which will need to be within 6 feet of your junction box. Make sure it's easily accessible for maintenance and adjustments, and in an area free from any drainage issues. If you choose an electric heater, you may need an initial visit from an electrician to verify that there is enough power available on your breaker panel to install the required power supply prior to installation.

3. Installing Your Heater: Our pool professionals will install the heater into your pool lines. If you have not installed your pool yet, our team can install your pool and heater on the same visit.

4. Connecting Your Heater to its Power or Fuel Supply: You will need the support of an electrician or a plumber based on your heater selection to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations. These professionals will complete the installation by connecting your heater to its newly created power or fuel supply. 

   • Electric heater options require a 240v junction box installed within 6 feet of the pool pump location. 

   • Natural gas heaters require your gas line to be extended within 6 feet of your heater’s location. 

   • Propane heaters require a safe connection to a large propane tank.

5. Testing the Setup: Once connected, follow the provided instructions to test your heater, ensuring everything is operational before you enjoy your steamy Cowboy Pool Hot Tub.

Following these steps, you can enjoy a warm and inviting pool without any hassle. 

Plus, with Cowboy Pools' heaters, you can rest assured that you're investing in quality and durability. 

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How to Choose the Right Heating System for Your Cowboy Pool

Whether you’re looking to extend your swimming season with a warm pool, a steamy soak, or a hot-tub-like experience, Cowboy Pools has offerings for it all.  Check out our heater options for a warm up! Here are a few more things to consider.

Size of Your Cowboy Pool

Smaller pools (6-8ft pools) may not need the heater with the highest heating capacity to reach the temperatures you’re looking for. For heat-ups in smaller pools, there are a range of options for steamy soaks or hot tub experiences. 

Larger pools like 10ft pools demand more robust heating solutions. Our higher powered electric options (11kw or Crosswind) and our natural gas or propane water heaters are perfect for these larger setups.

Desired Temperature 

Just looking to extend the swim season for your compact pool? Consider our compact 110v inline electric heaters. These work great on smaller Cowboy Pool models and will keep your pool temps swimmable for more of the year. They’re budget friendly, easy to maintain, and don’t require much of an electrical upgrade. 

Some like it HOT! Temperatures up to 104 are achievable with our higher powered electrical and gas heater options. Electric options (5.5kw, 11kw, and Crosswind) offer great temperature maintenance for consistent use and can offer hot tub temperatures. Natural Gas and Propane options offer rapid heating capabilities and easy adjustment controls to reach the perfect hot tub temperature. These are a great option for a quick and efficient heating experience. 

Some like it COLD, too! Did you know we also offer a heater and chiller combination unit? Check out our electric Crosswind 50-i option! You can achieve the temperatures as high as 104 and as low as 54, so you can control temperatures to your liking year-round with this great addition. 

Other Factors

A common deciding factor in choosing a heater is based on what fuel or power supply is available to you, and what costs might be incurred in creating the support for your heater. You may also factor in how often you will be heating your pool, and in what seasons you may be heating your pool. Cooler weather may require more power or fuel to heat your pool. 

Natural Gas vs. Electric Heaters (What's the Deal?)

Here's how to choose:

• Natural Gas & Propane Water Heaters: Ideal for rapid heating, natural gas and propane heaters can warm your pool quickly and are perfect for less frequent, impromptu use. They require a natural gas line or a larger upfront setup with a propane tank but offer the flexibility of faster heat without the need for extensive wiring.

• Electric Heaters: These are best for consistent, regular use. They operate cost-effectively and are easier to maintain, though the initial installation may require professional electrical services.

Both options integrate easily with Cowboy Pools products, so your tub pool remains a year-round oasis.

Heat Retention in Your Stock Tank Pool

Maximizing your pool's heat retention is vital to extending those warm, relaxing dips into the cooler evenings or seasons.

Here's how:

• Use a Pool Cover: Cowboy Pools offers custom inflatable stock tank covers that keep debris out and help heat and maintain water temperature. These covers are easy to handle and add an extra layer of insulation. 

• Choose the Honcho: The Honcho Cowboy Pool model features a poly liner, adding extra insulation to your pool. Ideal for both heating and chilling! (Looking to upgrade your OG pool to the Honcho? Send us an inquiry!)

Combining water heaters with these heat retention strategies is your best bet for turning your tank pool into a hot tub. 

Maintaining Your Heated Stock Tank Pool Throughout the Seasons

You need to know how to care for your pool and heater through the changing seasons, ensuring longevity and performance.

Spring and Summer

During warmer months, managing your pool's temperature to prevent overheating and ensures the water is always refreshing. Consider adding a shade structure, or opt for the Crosswind 50-i Heater/Chiller unit to chill your pool in the warmer months! 

Fall and Winter

As temperatures drop, your new heater steps up to the plate! Cowboy Pools' inflatable covers can help retain warmth and keep the water at a pleasant temperature.

Remember, if you live in a colder climate, you must winterize your pool to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.

Drain your heater and detach it from water sources to prevent freezing and cracking. 

Cover your pool securely to keep out debris and to insulate the water against the cold.

Enjoy Year-Round Comfort with Cowboy Pools

With the right heater and maintenance tips, you're set to use your stock tank pool through all seasons. 

Cowboy Pools is committed to helping you enjoy your pool with our easy-to-install, efficient heating solutions and comprehensive customer support.

Don't wait for the chill to set in!

Shop Cowboy Pools Heaters today and choose the perfect heater to turn your stock tank pool into a year-round hot tub. 

Visit our product pages or contact our support team at howdy@cowboypools.com for detailed heater guidance and maintenance. 

We are ready to help you get the most out of your stock tank pool. 

Minimal fuss and maximum enjoyment!

FAQs

Can I convert my Cowboy Pool into a hot tub?

Yes, with Cowboy Pools' heater systems, you can easily convert your official Cowboy Pool into a cozy hot tub. 

Who should I contact for professional installation of my pool heater in Austin?

For professional pool heater installation, we recommend contacting Ryan Waits for plumbing needs at (512) 965-4524 and Albert for electrical installations at 512-665-7500. Consulting with licensed professionals ensures a safe and compliant setup.

When should I turn on the heater to maintain a comfortable temperature in my Cowboy pool?

This depends on several factors, including ambient temperature, pool usage, and desired water temperature. Generally, turning on the heater a few hours before use is sufficient to reach a comfortable temperature. Remember to use a pool thermometer to monitor the water temperature accurately.