Last year I saw plans for an inexpensive water heater for my chickens on the forum pages. The whole project only cost me about $2.50 and it works fantastic.
All you need is:
a large cookie tin
an outdoor socket and plug ($2.50 at the local hardware store)
metal snips
40 watt light bulb (25 watt works if it doesn't get too cold, but for sustained winter temps of 10-25 degrees, like at my house, the 40 works better)
Optional:
Drill
silicone to seal the area around the socket
I made a wooden box to put it on so the girls can't get to the plugs and wires and also to keep the snow off it. I have the extension cord coming up under it into the box.
I like the extra height the wooden box give the waterer. The girls can't scratch as much dirt, etc into it.
I used a drill to start the hole for the socket and then cut it out with metal snips.
The socket fit perfectly so no need to seal it
40 watt bulb
putting the socket and plug together
Put the lid on and I'm done
All you need is:
a large cookie tin
an outdoor socket and plug ($2.50 at the local hardware store)
metal snips
40 watt light bulb (25 watt works if it doesn't get too cold, but for sustained winter temps of 10-25 degrees, like at my house, the 40 works better)
Optional:
Drill
silicone to seal the area around the socket
I made a wooden box to put it on so the girls can't get to the plugs and wires and also to keep the snow off it. I have the extension cord coming up under it into the box.
I like the extra height the wooden box give the waterer. The girls can't scratch as much dirt, etc into it.
Last edited:
