We bought this at a local farm store mostly because it was the cheapest option. We had gone through a lot of normal waters because the ice would crack them and were sick of it. Our other option was to buy a galvanized one and a heating plate, but that would have been over $100, too much IMO. So we played about $30 for this one. I love that the bottom part is flexible, so if the power goes out or it is not plugged in, ice won't break it as easily as others. The top however is very thin and somewhat flimsy. Filling it is awkward too. There is a plug on the base, so you can fill it, then turn the top slightly so the hole is covered, plug it up, tip it over and carry it in. Well, the first few times I did it this way the base just fell off. So it's really easier to carry it upside down. My other problem is that the cord is strong, but a little too short. We had to use an extension cord to connect it to the outlet four feet away. It also seemed to leak a bit, because there was always a puddle of water around it. I do like that it can regulate the temp of the water so my chickens still get a drink that is not too hot and not too cold. And that it was fairly inexpensive compared to others of the same quality. I wouldn't use it in summer at risk of damaging the cord, so I have it in a plastic tub in the barn now, and will get it out this winter. It is a nice thing to have, and did hold up well, despite my initial thoughts. And it is very much worth it instead of breaking ice by hand every few hours, and running the risk that your chickens are dehydrated.
I would recommend it to most people, unless they were:
I would recommend it to most people, unless they were:
- Unable to carry it
- Far from electricity
- Or in EXTREMELY cold areas, since only the base heats and the top might crack