[RE-wrenches] Direct solar options for stock tank de icing

[Hilton Dier]

Daryl Thayer has the key to this: surface insulation. About 90% of heat loss from an open body of water is from evaporation. There are black plastic balls (about 5” dia) you can get to float on top in a layer. Blue foam works but deteriorates in the sun. I know we are all about electrical and mechanical solutions on this list, but whatever you do, don’t waste your money trying to heat an open surface water tank.

Hilton Dier III
Renewable Energy Design
Missisquoi River Hydro LLC