Mid-Winter Checkup: Keeping Your Water Supply Running Through the Deep Freeze

Propane tank heaters for livestock tanks. Electric heater for the wellhouse. Two systems, one goal: reliable water in the coldest months.

As winter reaches its coldest stretch, livestock owners face the highest risk of freeze-ups, not only in their stock tanks but also in their wellhouses, pump rooms, and plumbing spaces. Now is the perfect time for a quick mid-season check to ensure both systems are performing the way they should.

A few minutes of maintenance now prevents emergencies later.

1. Give Your Propane Stock Tank Heater a Mid-Season Inspection

Your propane stock tank heater works directly in the tank and is your frontline defense against frozen water.

This time of year, check for:

• Stable placement with no tipping or shifting
• Adequate water level covering the heating chamber
• Clear propane lines and frost-free regulators
• Proper ventilation (not blocked by snowdrifts)
• Enough propane supply on hand for long cold snaps

These checks help the heater do its job efficiently during the harshest weeks of winter.

2. Re-Check Propane Supply & System Conditions

A healthy propane supply is essential for reliable performance. Make sure to:

• Knock off snow and ice around tanks, valves, and regulators
• Keep the tank accessible for refills
• Watch for frost buildup that can interfere with flow
• Ensure proper airflow around the heater and tank

In deep cold, propane systems can behave differently — a quick walkaround can prevent surprises.

3. Inspect Your Electric Wellhouse Heater (Non-Submersible)

Your electric heater is not for water tanks. It belongs in the wellhouse, pump room, or utility area, plugged into a GFI outlet, where it keeps plumbing and pumps from freezing.

Mid-winter reminders:

• The heater must be dry, and placed away from water splashes and ANY flammable or easily melted materials
• Ensure the space between the Hot Scot hasn’t become blocked by other materials
• Keeping all kinds of flammable or easily melted materials away from the heater at all times
• Confirm the GFI outlet or breaker hasn’t tripped
• Keep the area clean with proper airflow
• Keep the Hot Scot between “Low” and “Medium” to ensure the wellhouse stays above freezing without using excessive amounts of electricity

The Hot Scot is a simple heater that protects the core of your water system. If the wellhouse freezes, the rest of the system doesn’t stand a chance.

4. Support Both Systems with Winter Smart Practices

For Stock Tanks:

• Use windbreaks to reduce heat loss
• Maintain consistent water levels
• Clear away ice crusts forming along tank walls opposite the heater
• Keep animals from crowding or pushing the stock tank heater

For Wellhouses:

• Seal drafts but maintain safe ventilation
• Clear snow piles from doors and vents
• Add insulation to exposed pipes, NOT the heater
• Always keep insulation AWAY from the heater
• Monitor nighttime lows, especially after storms

A few preventive steps can dramatically increase reliability during single-digit and subzero temperatures.

5. Quick Troubleshooting Guide

If the Stock Tank Is Beginning to Ice Up:

• Check propane level
• Inspect the regulator and valve for frost buildup
• Check the temperature dial is set at an appropriate temperature
• Check the pilot light is still lit

If the Wellhouse Appears Too Cold:

• Is the electric heater on?
• Has the GFI outlet or the breaker tripped?
• Are drafts hitting exposed pipes?
• Does the heater have clear airflow?
• Add insulation to pipe runs, NOT to the heater, always keeping insulation AWAY from the heater.

Early signs of freezing are your warning to fix small problems before they become major ones.

Winter Isn’t Done — Keep Your System Going Strong

Late winter often brings the toughest cold of the year. A simple mid-season check helps your propane stock tank heater and electric wellhouse heater keep water flowing so your livestock stay healthy and hydrated.

If you need help choosing the right heater, replacing parts, or troubleshooting freeze-ups, our team is here to help all winter long.