best for keeping water frozen in winter

[Janice123456]

I'm new to chickens just inherited three sweet Rhode island reds.
They will be staying in a shed and run protected for winter. I'm concerned about water. Can
I leave water outside for them or does it have to be in coop. Im researching heated water dishes. I'm concerned some say not to put in the coop as it causes to much dampness.

 

[cavemanrich]

Put into coop and it wont cause too much dampness. Have sufficient ventilation in your coop. Not sure what you will be using to keep your water from freezing. There are a few options like heated dog water bowls. They draw about 25 watts. I personally like to re purpose things..... so I use small crock pots. I use a dimmer switch to lower the heating output , so the water is only luke warm at best. The bowls are removable for easy cleaning and refilling.
AND WELCOME TO

Ask all the questions you have. There are soo many here that are very willing to help.

 

[drumstick diva]

 

[N F C]

Hi, welcome to BYC!

Being in FL, frozen waterers are one thing I don't know much about but I bet you could get a lot of ideas from members that live in your state. Here's where you can find the MA state thread:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/50058/byc-members-in-massachusetts

Nice to have you here!

P.S. @cavemanrich using a crock pot sounds like a great idea, very inventive

 

[sunflour]

Glad you have joined us.

I'm in Georgia and have only a few days in the winter to battle the freezing water issue. Even with a cinderblock and light to try to prevent freezing ( mine is in the run), the water will freeze when temps are below 25 F.

There are a lot of threads discussing the issue with solutions other members have found : https://www.backyardchickens.com/newsearch?search=water+freezing

I think NorthFLChick's recommendation to explore options with those in your climate is the best way to go.

IMO dampness would be less of an issue than no access to the water. Keep some PDZ on hand to help dry any spills.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!