Heat lamp

[organicchef]

I have finished my brooder and installed the heat lamp (with red heat bulb). I have it about 2 1/2 feet from the bottom of and it is still way to hot!!! (Don't panic, the babies won't be here til Tuesday) About 110...
What other bulb can I use? I have heard that red bulbs reduce picking...
Thanks!!!

 

[PhilErvin]

Your Brooder needs to be big enough that the chicks can get away from the heat as they need to.

 

[biddybird]

I only use the heat bulb in the winter, in outdoor pens with an escape area. A 100 watt bulb normally keeps mine right at 95 this time of year. I have also found that an 85 watt spot light works, be sure and check temps each time you change a bulb, I bought what I thought was the same and came back and found my brooder way too hot!

 

[PhilErvin]

Can you back the lamp further away?

 

[organicchef]

The size is about 2 x 4...and I'm getting 6 babies.

 

[PhilErvin]

Move your thermometer as far from the hottest point as you can (within the Brooder)and see what the temp reads.

 

[organicchef]

I've got it up as high as it will go. I think I'll try a different type bulb and see what the temp is. I want it to be perfect when the babies get here.
I know puppies, kittens, hamsters, and fish.....baby chicks are a whole new adventure!!!

 

[organicchef]

Quote:
Phil, it was about 110 to 115 at the furthest (is that a word????) point

 

[Boo-Boo's Mama]

I had the same problem with my first batch...got way too hot. I put a smaller watt bulb in and the babies were comfortable and the light did not lead to picking or hyperactivity...I was a new chickie mom and checked on them constantly.

 

[PhilErvin]

Quote:
Good thought. As long as they can get away from the heat they will "self regulate". If you see them crowding in the furthest corner you will know that the heat is still too intense. Good Luck and welcome to this addiction.