4 Best Open Top Water Tanks for Easy Cleaning That Save Money

Why it matters: Open top water tanks revolutionize maintenance routines by eliminating the hassle of squeezing through tiny access ports or dismantling complex systems just to scrub away sediment and algae buildup.

The big picture: You’re spending too much time and money on water tank cleaning because traditional closed systems make thorough maintenance nearly impossible without professional help.

What’s next: We’ve researched dozens of open top water tanks to identify the four models that deliver the perfect balance of accessibility durability and cleaning convenience for homeowners and businesses alike.

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Tank #1: Polytank Heavy-Duty Open Top Water Storage Tank

The Polytank Heavy-Duty model stands out as our top pick for combining robust construction with practical cleaning access. You’ll find this tank delivers reliable water storage while maintaining the accessibility that makes maintenance straightforward.

Key Features and Specifications

Your Polytank features a 1,500-gallon capacity with UV-resistant polyethylene construction that won’t crack in extreme temperatures. The 36-inch diameter opening provides full access to the tank interior, while the reinforced walls handle pressures up to 15 PSI. You get a 10-year manufacturer warranty covering structural defects and material degradation under normal use conditions.

Easy Cleaning Benefits and Access Points

You can easily reach every corner of this tank through its wide-mouth design without specialized equipment or contortion. The smooth interior walls prevent algae buildup and allow thorough scrubbing with standard cleaning tools. Your maintenance routine becomes a simple monthly task rather than an expensive professional service call, saving hundreds annually.

Pricing and Where to Buy

You’ll pay between $800-$950 for the Polytank Heavy-Duty model depending on your location and shipping costs. Tractor Supply Co. and Rural King stock these tanks regularly, while online retailers like Tank Depot offer competitive pricing with delivery options. Your best value comes from local farm supply stores during spring sales events.

Tank #2: Rubbermaid Commercial Stock Tank

You’ll find serious durability in this commercial-grade tank that’s built to handle everything from livestock watering to emergency water storage. The Rubbermaid Commercial Stock Tank delivers professional quality at a price point that makes sense for hobby farmers.

Key Features and Specifications

This 100-gallon tank measures 52″ x 25″ x 16″ and holds up to freezing temperatures without cracking. You’re getting structural foam construction that won’t fade or become brittle under UV exposure. The reinforced rim design distributes weight evenly, preventing stress cracks that plague cheaper alternatives. Temperature resistance ranges from -20°F to 140°F.

Easy Cleaning Benefits and Access Points

Your cleaning routine becomes effortless with the completely open design and smooth interior walls. You can reach every corner with standard cleaning tools, and the shallow 16-inch depth means no awkward stretching or special equipment. The rounded corners eliminate algae buildup spots that square tanks create. Drain plug placement allows complete water removal.

Pricing and Where to Buy

Expect to pay $180-$220 at farm supply stores like Tractor Supply Co. and Fleet Farm. You’ll often find better deals at rural co-ops during their spring inventory clearance events. Online retailers like Amazon typically match farm store pricing but add shipping costs. Check local livestock equipment dealers for bulk pricing if you’re buying multiple units.

Tank #3: Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment Galvanized Round Tank

You’ll find serious construction quality in this galvanized steel tank that’s built for decades of reliable service. The hot-dipped galvanized coating resists rust and corrosion better than most competitors in this price range.

Key Features and Specifications

This tank delivers 1,100-gallon capacity with 20-gauge galvanized steel construction that handles temperature extremes without warping. The 8-foot diameter provides excellent stability while the 2-foot height keeps maintenance manageable. You’ll appreciate the rolled rim edges that add structural strength and eliminate sharp corners that could cause injury during cleaning.

Easy Cleaning Benefits and Access Points

The completely open top design gives you unrestricted access to every corner of this tank’s interior. You can easily reach all surfaces with standard cleaning tools thanks to the shallow depth and wide opening. The smooth galvanized interior prevents algae buildup and allows thorough scrubbing without specialized equipment or confined-space entry.

Pricing and Where to Buy

You’ll typically pay $650-$750 for this tank at farm supply retailers like Bomgaars and Rural King. Tractor Supply Co. often runs spring promotions that can save you $50-$100 on similar models. Local feed stores frequently offer competitive pricing with free delivery within 25 miles of their locations.

Tank #4: Behlen Country Poly Stock Tank

The Behlen Country Poly Stock Tank rounds out your top options with impressive versatility for both livestock and water storage needs. This American-made tank delivers the reliable performance you’d expect from a company that’s been manufacturing farm equipment since 1936.

Key Features and Specifications

Capacity and Construction: You’ll get 300 gallons of storage in a tank built from high-density polyethylene that won’t crack in winter freezes. The structural foam construction creates double-wall insulation that maintains water temperature better than single-wall alternatives.

Dimensions: At 8 feet long, 2 feet wide, and 2 feet deep, this rectangular design fits perfectly along fence lines or barn walls where round tanks won’t work.

Easy Cleaning Benefits and Access Points

Open Design Advantages: The completely open top gives you unrestricted access to every corner and crevice inside the tank. You can easily reach all interior surfaces with standard cleaning tools or pressure washers without contorting yourself.

Maintenance Features: Smooth interior walls prevent algae from establishing footholds, while the shallow 2-foot depth lets you clean the bottom thoroughly without special equipment or entering the tank.

Pricing and Where to Buy

Cost Range: Expect to pay $280-$350 for the Behlen Country tank, positioning it as a mid-range option that balances quality with affordability. Rural King and Fleet Farm typically stock these tanks year-round.

Best Deals: You’ll find the lowest prices at local farm cooperatives during end-of-season clearances in late fall, often saving $40-$60 off retail pricing.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Open Top Water Tanks

Choosing the right open top water tank isn’t just about finding the cheapest option—it’s about matching your specific needs with the right features. After years of working with different tank configurations, I’ve learned that three key factors make or break your long-term satisfaction.

Size and Capacity Requirements

Start with your actual water usage, not your imagined needs. Most people overestimate their requirements and end up with tanks that are harder to maintain. A 300-gallon tank handles most hobby farm needs—livestock watering, garden irrigation, and emergency backup—without becoming unwieldy during cleaning. Larger tanks like the 1,500-gallon Polytank models work best when you’ve got multiple water sources or significant livestock operations.

Material Durability and Weather Resistance

Polyethylene tanks handle temperature swings better than most people realize. High-density polyethylene withstands winter freezes without cracking, while UV-resistant formulations prevent degradation from constant sun exposure. Galvanized steel tanks like the Tarter models offer superior puncture resistance but require more attention to prevent rust spots. Both materials last 15+ years with proper maintenance, but polyethylene forgives neglect better.

Maintenance Accessibility Features

The opening size determines how easily you’ll actually clean your tank. A 36-inch diameter opening lets you reach every corner with standard cleaning tools, while smaller openings force you into awkward positions. Smooth interior walls prevent algae buildup more effectively than textured surfaces. Rounded corners eliminate hard-to-reach spots where debris accumulates, making quarterly cleaning sessions much more manageable.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Open Top Water Tanks

Proper maintenance keeps your open top water tank performing reliably for years while preventing costly problems from algae buildup and contamination.

Regular Cleaning Schedule Recommendations

Clean your tank every 3-4 months during active use periods. Spring and fall cleanings work best since you’ll catch algae before summer heat accelerates growth.

Empty tanks completely before winter freezes to prevent cracking. Schedule deep cleaning when you’re refilling after seasonal droughts or before storing livestock water.

Essential Cleaning Tools and Supplies

You’ll need a stiff-bristled brush, algae scraper, and garden hose with pressure nozzle. Bring rubber gloves and non-slip boots for safety on wet surfaces.

Keep diluted bleach solution (1:10 ratio) for disinfecting and white vinegar for mineral deposits. A wet-dry vacuum helps remove stubborn debris from tank bottoms.

Safety Precautions During Tank Maintenance

Never enter large tanks without proper ventilation and a spotter outside. Even shallow tanks become slippery death traps when wet algae coats the bottom.

Wear non-slip footwear and use a sturdy ladder for tall tanks. Turn off electrical pumps before cleaning and wait 30 minutes after adding bleach before rinsing thoroughly.

Conclusion

Choosing the right open top water tank transforms a maintenance headache into a simple routine task. You’ll save hundreds of dollars annually by avoiding professional cleaning services while ensuring your water stays fresh and safe.

Whether you need the heavy-duty capacity of the Polytank model or the compact versatility of the Behlen Country tank you now have proven options that deliver reliable performance. Each tank we’ve covered offers the accessibility and durability that makes regular maintenance actually manageable.

Your investment in an open top design pays dividends through years of easier cleaning reduced maintenance costs and peace of mind knowing your water storage system works when you need it most.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main advantages of open top water tanks?

Open top water tanks offer superior maintenance accessibility compared to traditional closed systems. They eliminate expensive professional cleaning requirements and provide direct access for routine maintenance. Their design prevents common issues like algae buildup and contamination, making them cost-effective for both homeowners and businesses seeking reliable water storage solutions.

Which open top water tank offers the best value for money?

The Polytank Heavy-Duty Open Top Water Storage Tank provides excellent value at $800-$950. With 1,500-gallon capacity, UV-resistant construction, and a 36-inch opening for easy maintenance, it offers the best combination of durability and accessibility. Best deals are typically found at local farm supply stores during spring sales.

How often should I clean my open top water tank?

Clean your open top water tank every 3-4 months, with primary cleaning sessions in spring and fall. This regular schedule prevents algae buildup and contamination issues. Always empty tanks before winter to prevent cracking from freezing temperatures and maintain optimal performance year-round.

What tools do I need for cleaning open top water tanks?

Essential cleaning tools include a stiff-bristled brush for scrubbing, an algae scraper for stubborn buildup, and a garden hose with pressure nozzle for rinsing. Always wear non-slip footwear for safety and ensure proper ventilation during maintenance. These basic tools handle most routine cleaning requirements effectively.

Are polyethylene or galvanized steel tanks better for open top water storage?

Polyethylene tanks offer superior temperature resilience and require lower maintenance compared to galvanized steel. They resist UV damage, freeze-thaw cycles, and don’t rust or corrode. While galvanized steel provides durability, polyethylene tanks like the Polytank model deliver better long-term performance with easier upkeep requirements.

What size water tank do I actually need?

Most people overestimate their water storage needs, leading to maintenance difficulties. Consider your actual usage patterns rather than maximum theoretical capacity. Smaller tanks are easier to maintain and clean regularly. Match your specific requirements with tank features rather than choosing the largest available option.