We chose to replace an automatic waterer with a float valve because, while it worked, the water in the dish became dirty quickly and ultimately very nasty. We ordered the middle sized unit with 4 nipples for 12 chickens + 12 to be added in future. The order from The Chicken Fountain arrived within a week and was well packaged. Upon opening, I found all the pieces as described in the instructional video on the website. We did have to purchase the pvc glue but I can understand why that would not be included. I was impressed at the quality of the material. It is sturdy and the unit, once assembled remains sturdy. I like that the middle of the unit which holds the supply of water houses the float valve in clean water inaccessible by dirt or light. This should keep the unit in working order for a very long time. I did take a moment to cover the "cover" with duct tape to block out any light that might get through the red top cap. I did not block the hole in the top, just covered the plastic cap which appeared a little translucent. We had previously run a high quality rubber hose from the house across the yard underground so installation was as simple as removing the old and hanging the new with the included braces. Nails are even taped to the braces in case you need them. Connecting the included metal fitting hose to the bottom of the unit and then that to the rubber hose takes less than a minute. The kit even includes the rubber bands used to train your chickens. These hold the nipples open so the chickens can see the water dripping. Our aging flock just followed the drip to the ground and tried drinking from there so we took them off. They took longer than the biddies we have to catch on but now 3 days later I am confident that all 12 know where to get fresh clean water. I am expecting a lot from this waterer and I do hope it proves itself.
We also purchased a few of the 2 liter nipple caps to get a head start training our biddies who are about 4 weeks old now. They took much less time to learn and mastered it within minutes. I like that the nipples on both products are in two parts. I think if they ever did clog, it would be easy to remedy.
We also purchased a few of the 2 liter nipple caps to get a head start training our biddies who are about 4 weeks old now. They took much less time to learn and mastered it within minutes. I like that the nipples on both products are in two parts. I think if they ever did clog, it would be easy to remedy.