Coop Heating Methods

[User353335]

Okay, so, before everyone freaks out when I use the word "heater," I've done the research and I'm aware of the hazards of introducing heat. What I'm looking to talk about is the safest methods of delivering heat to ducks should you live in a climate area, or have a period of temperatures where it becomes a requirement. I happen to live in New England, and the winters can be cold for periods of time. I know people make claims that our feathery friends will be fine, however, there is a lethal temperature for all animals... at some point they will become too cold and and will die. What are your thoughts on the ideas proposed below? Do you have any other ideas for keeping your ducks / poultry warm while minimizing fire risk?

Heat Lamp

This is the old "classic." It probably accounts for the vast majority of heating inside of chicken and duck coops, so I figured I'd start with this. I definitely think this one depends on how you've implemented the heater in your space... this can be done safely, and if you think about it, the ratio of heat lamps out there, to the number of fires that are attributable to them is extremely small.

As far as the best one I've seen so far, I'd have to say it's the Prima Heat Lamp. Has anyone used this model? It seems much safer than the traditional medal units.

Heat Pads

I found another option that seems interesting... a heat pad. There's a few models that are designed specifically for use with poultry, including the Thermo-Chicken Heated Pad by K&H Manufacturing. This is a 40W pad that you can mount either on the ground or wall inside your coop. Poultry can lay down on or beside it, and they will warm up. This will NOT warm the air, and it's only 40 watts, but it will warm the animal.

I tend to like this model, however, one apprehension I have is putting this on the wall next to wood shavings and moisture. The K&H specifically state to not place wood shavings or saw dust directly on the unit due to fire hazards.

 

[Ur-ur-ur-urrr]

I just wanted to update this review; after contacting the seller (http://www.mypetchicken.com) they were outstanding. They offered to replace the product or provide a credit to reimburse for the damage. I opted for the credit due to the fact that it operationally worked fine. The aesthetic damage was hidden on the rear of the unit and I'm almost certain the ducks don't mind.

In any event, the product appears to be working well. The burn in smell is pretty noticeable, but I'm hoping that will subside with time. I opted to use this unit in conjunction with a Thermocube by Farm Innovators.

It was very nice of them to offer a credit for what I would consider slight cosmetic damage. It won't affect the performance in any way, and the heat plate itself is supposed to be "virtually indestructible". I also have the 11x16 hanging model to go in my brooder as soon as my eggs hatch (appr. 17 days). Yes... I'm already counting my chickens. I love it because the top barely gets close to what I would consider warm. As for the burn in smell, you should let it run for several days before using it with livestock so it doesn't irritate sensitive airways. And yes, the smell will subside with time.

 

[Miss Lydia]

I learned the hard way last winter year that old ducks don't fair well when temps go frigid and stay that way over long periods I lost my 10 yr old Muscovy duck to hypothermia so since I have 1 old one left he'll be 12 this coming spring I ordered the sweeter Heater just for days when he can stay inside and stay a bit warm. I bought the one that attaches on the side

http://www.mypetchicken.com/catalog...er-Coop-and-Brooder-Heater-4-sizes-p1556.aspx

 

[User353335]

@Miss Lydia , mine came in today! The company I ordered from informed me there's no real difference between the side mount and the chain mount aside from hardware. I figured I could pick up a chain anywhere, and make it chain mount should I need to... For others, the only other difference I can notice is the cord doesn't come out the middle, it comes out the side. I think the side mount is the better one to order, as the hardware to side mount it would be harder to "design yourself."

As far as the unit itself, I have it "burning in" tonight to make sure that all the nasty smell is out of it. Tomorrow, I'm going to try to add a plug where I want to mount the unit and install it. One thing I did notice immediately is that the construction wasn't as "polished" as I'd expect at this price point. There were black scuffs and scraping around the back... maybe due to shipping, maybe from build. In either case, if it performs well, that's all that matters

 

[User353335]

I got the 11"x16". Here are some pictures for others...







and... the damage...

 

[Miss Lydia]

I got the 11"x16". Here are some pictures for others...







and... the damage...

I just got mine too, looks like yours got some rough handling I bet you could send it back for another. I plugged mine in and it works. I did read you can use the side mount for hanging . all an all I am pleased with it so far. Sure like this idea alot better than a heat lamp. I got the 11x16 too.

 

[User353335]

We have (and intentionally selected) Cayugas for their cold tolerance. They have proven to be hardy little ducks thus far. I've yet to use the heater bar testing. We opted for the ThermoCube that comes on at 0 and off at 10 degrees F. I'm guessing it won't come on too often inside. I agree with all your statements, though! Better to let them fend for themselves... if they can!

 

[Miss Lydia]

We have (and intentionally selected) Cayugas for their cold tolerance. They have proven to be hardy little ducks thus far. I've yet to use the heater bar testing. We opted for the ThermoCube that comes on at 0 and off at 10 degrees F. I'm guessing it won't come on too often inside. I agree with all your statements, though! Better to let them fend for themselves... if they can!

I think they will be fine. Mine silly things have all doors open and would rather lay down even on ice and snow tuck their heads and sleep. and they could all go inside. My main reason was to get one for my old drake. This morning it was 22 and here he comes outside with the rest. Those minuses last Feb was what worried me he doesn't molt anymore and hasn't any feathers left on his winds to amount to much.. It's hard getting old even for a duck. So I am ready for what ever comes this year.

 

[jofanx]

I'm in Southern NY and am a little worried about this too. What about, instead of a heater, you build those... Cat bins? You know, the ones that are insulated, meant for feral cats. It's like one bin inside another, insulation in between, then straw inside the inside bin. The small enclosed space would trap in the heat.

And instead of using the pads for poultry... Why not the ones for reptiles? Those can handle being on/near shavings and moisture (if a you get the kind that are completely sealed like heat rocks.)

I thought about heating mine since my shed converted coop has electricity but I know with our storms it's iffy if I will always have electricity.

 

[User353335]

I learned the hard way last winter year that old ducks don't fair well when temps go frigid and stay that way over long periods I lost my 10 yr old Muscovy duck to hypothermia so since I have 1 old one left he'll be 12 this coming spring I ordered the sweeter Heater just for days when he can stay inside and stay a bit warm. I bought the one that attaches on the side

http://www.mypetchicken.com/catalog...er-Coop-and-Brooder-Heater-4-sizes-p1556.aspx

I love this product recommendation! Thanks for the information, and I'm sorry about the loss of your sweet old Muscovy.

Edit: Do you have any pictures of it installed in your coop?