Chick brooder heat plate burning chicks' backs?

[Keeperofmunchkins]

I've just hatched seven bantam chicks. They are six old today. For the first time I'm using a chick brooder heater instead of a lamp. No problems with it at all until suddenly today I noticed every chick has a small balding patch on their back, about the size of a pea. I don't have pics sorry, but this just happened today. It is just fuzz worn/singed off and not affecting their skin.

I've raised the level up but i thought the ckicks were supposed to touch the heat plate without it being too hot?? I'm worried it is overheating.
This is what I'm using (not my photo) :

 

[ChickenCanoe]

It looks like it needs to be raised at least an inch - and more as they grow.

 

[Keeperofmunchkins]

Thanks. Do I need to raise it high enough that their backs can't touch it?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Depending on age and the ambient temperature, their backs don't really need to touch.
If I were remiss at raising it in a timely manner, I've never experienced what you have. Have you touched the surface to test the temperature? It will be quite warm but not enough to burn your finger.

 

[aart]

I don't have pics sorry, but this just happened today. It is just fuzz worn/singed off and not affecting their skin.

Worn or singed?
Pics would be good.

Have you touched the surface to test the temperature?

Ditto Dat^^^

 

[chickens really]

Definitely raise it..They need to be able to walk under it.

 

[Keeperofmunchkins]

I have raised it up an inch or so and they can walk under it easily now. But when I touch it it is very hot. I can only stay touching it for a few seconds before it feels too hot.

 

[Keeperofmunchkins]

I will get photos and update soon.

 

[chickens really]

Raise it higher...

 

[Al Capon]

Get a temperature controller, it will let you modulate the heat and the chicks can still push up against the brooder to keep warm..