I found this^^^ to be essential.
With my engineering testing mind and experience, I already had (roughly) measured the amount they drank out of the open waterer, so of course I also measured the nipple vessel.
Consumption was less at first, but within a week or so they were drinking the same...
VN's re hard to keep flowing in winter.
HN's are much better as they seal on the inside with rubber seals.
This was my ultimate solution, has worked well (down to about -12°F) for 8-9 years now.