How to Upgrade Your Stock Tank Pool with a Quality Inlet Strainer and Modern Filtration Accessories

A stock tank pool is a beloved backyard fixture for families and DIY enthusiasts—offering simplicity, rustic charm, and the promise of cooling off even in the coziest spaces. But as these pools surge in popularity, practical pool maintenance becomes top-of-mind. Clean, sparkling water doesn’t happen by accident. One upgrade that makes a significant impact is investing in a high-quality inlet strainer and pairing it with modern filtration accessories.

This guide will walk you through why an inlet strainer is a must-have, how to select the best type for your setup, and the step-by-step process for installation or upgrading your existing pool equipment. Plus, you’ll get troubleshooting tips and ideas for integrating advanced pool filtration that will keep your stock tank pool in top shape for years to come.

Why a Quality Inlet Strainer Matters

The inlet strainer, also known as a pool intake or suction strainer, is the first line of defense in your pool’s filtration system. Its job: protect the pump and filter by catching leaves, bugs, hair, and other debris before they can clog or damage downstream equipment. Without an effective strainer, debris slips through, putting your pump at risk of reduced water flow, mechanical wear, or even failure.

For stock tank pool maintenance, a good inlet strainer pays off in multiple ways:

• Better Pool Filtration: Keeps large debris out of your pump and filter.

• Cleaner Water: Minimizes floating dirt and particles.

• Easier Upkeep: Less time spent fishing out leaves and more time swimming.

• Longer Equipment Life: Reduces the risk of clogs and pump burnout.

Selecting the Right Inlet Strainer for Your Pool

Not all problems have a “one size fits all” solution—choosing the correct strainer is crucial for convenience and compatibility with your pool setup.

Consider these factors:

• Size and Threading: Make sure the strainer matches the inlet port size and threading of your pump and tank. Most stock tank pool kits use standard 1.25" or 1.5" threaded fixtures, but always check.

• Material: Opt for rust-resistant plastic or stainless steel. Plastic is lightweight and easy to install, while stainless steel offers durability for year-round outdoor exposure.

• Mesh Fineness: Finer mesh means better debris-catching capability, but too fine can restrict flow if you get lots of leaves/pollen. Strike a balance based on your yard’s typical debris load.

• Easy Cleaning: Look for designs that allow quick removal and rinsing.

• Compatibility with Accessories: If you’re planning to attach a vacuum, booster pump, or other pool equipment, ensure your strainer and fittings are compatible.

Many stock tank pool retailers offer upgrade kits that include a quality inlet strainer plus all needed adapters and gaskets for a smooth installation.

Step-By-Step: Installing or Upgrading Your Inlet Strainer

Upgrading from a basic or worn-out strainer? Starting from scratch? Here’s a thorough process to ensure long-lasting, leak-free performance.

1. Gather Your Pool Equipment and Tools

• Pool-rated inlet strainer (ensure correct size)

• Compatible gaskets and washers

• PVC adapters or coupling (if upgrading hose or pump fittings)

• Silicone sealant (pool safe)

• Hole saw or drill (if installing a new inlet)

• Adjustable wrench or pliers

2. Prepare the Pool

• Drain the Pool: Lower the water below the level of your planned inlet. For existing pools, remove the old strainer and check appearance of inlet hole.

• Clean the Area: Ensure the tank wall or fitting is free of debris, rust, or old sealant.

3. Position and Drill the Inlet Hole (if new install)

• Mark a spot 2/3 down from the top edge, on a smooth, flat part of the tank. Avoid ribs or seams for the best seal.

• Using a hole saw sized to your strainer (typically 2.5"–3"), carefully drill the opening. File edges smooth to prevent liner tears or leaks.

• If using a pool liner, repeat the hole through the liner—trace the strainer’s flange/gasket for a perfect fit.

4. Install the Inlet Strainer

• Dry Fit: Insert the strainer through the hole with gaskets on both sides to preview alignment and fit.

• Seal: Apply a continuous bead of silicone pool sealant around the flange and gasket (inside and outside, if possible).

• Insert the strainer, press firmly in place, and tighten the plastic or metal nut on the threaded end. Use pliers if needed, but avoid over-tightening, which can crack fittings.

• Wait 24 hours for silicone to cure fully before filling the pool.

5. Connect Filter and Filtration Accessories

• Attach the strainer to your pool’s filter pump using the correct hoses/adapters. A good inlet strainer should easily accept hoses from most standard pool pumps.

• For more advanced pool water circulation, consider a dual-inlet setup or supplemental circulation pump—this is especially helpful for larger tanks.

6. Test for Leaks and Proper Flow

• Fill the pool above the inlet and watch for drips or seepage. Any water beads indicate gasket issues or weak sealant: drain slightly, reseal, and retighten.

• Once leak-free, run your pump and check flow through the strainer. You want strong suction, steady output, and “catching” of leaves before they hit the filter basket.

Troubleshooting Common Inlet Strainer Installation Problems

Most installations are straightforward, but sometimes surprises arise. Here’s how to handle the most common issues:

• Minor Drips at the Flange: Remove and reapply sealant; use high-quality pool-safe silicone. Ensure gaskets aren’t twisted.

• Loose Fitting: Tighten slightly more with hand or wrench. If threads are stripped, replace nut or adapter.

• Weak Water Flow: Clean out debris from the strainer mesh, ensure there’s no vacuum leak at the fitting, and clear any blockages in the connected hose.

• Whistling or Noisy Suction: This usually means some air is entering—double-check the seal and fitting tightness.

• Inlet Sits Too High/Low: Ideally, the inlet should be just below the waterline’s midpoint for best water circulation. If installed too low, you may need to partially refill the tank or reposition in future installations.

Pairing Your Inlet Strainer with Advanced Filtration Accessories

A modern stock tank pool is only as clean as its weakest link! Enhance your pool filtration with:

Multi-Stage Filters

Upgrade from the basic cartridge filter included in most kits to a higher-capacity sand or DE filter. These can trap finer particles and require less frequent cleaning.

Chlorine/Bromine Dispensers

Use a floating dispenser for easier chemical management—keeping sanitizer levels balanced and reducing manual dosing.

Automatic Pool Vacuums

Many suction-side pool vacuums attach directly to your inlet strainer or dedicated vacuum port, making debris removal effortless.

Solar or Electric Heaters

Some modern systems include inline heaters that connect right after the strainer, allowing for climate control with minimal setup.

Flow-Optimizing Accessories

Install additional returns, jets, or adjustable nozzles to increase circulation and prevent dead spots where debris accumulates.

Maintaining Your Inlet Strainer and Filtration System

• Check and Clean Weekly: Rinse the strainer mesh regularly, especially after storms or high-use weekends.

• Inspect Seals and Gaskets: Look for wear or hardening—replace as needed to prevent leaks.

• Monitor Water Flow: Reduced suction can mean a clogged strainer or pump basket.

• Winterizing: Before freezing temps, remove, clean, and store the strainer indoors to prolong its life.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your stock tank pool with a quality inlet strainer and the right filtration accessories is one of the smartest moves for passionate pool owners. Not only does it make pool upkeep dramatically easier, but it helps ensure your water is safe, clean, and inviting all summer long.

Whether you’re building your pool from scratch or looking to enhance your current setup, investing in durable, compatible, and easy-to-maintain equipment pays off with fewer headaches and more carefree dips under the sun. For modern pool equipment solutions that keep you ahead of pool maintenance hassles, start with a high-performance inlet strainer—it’s the small component that packs a huge punch in backyard enjoyment.