Heat source

[Michelle14]

Is a brooder plate enough to use on an outdoor brooder? Example, the temperatures are getting between 40-53 at the coldest. Will a brooder plate be enough for chicks to be outside?

 

[rosemarythyme]

Check the instructions for your specific plate and see if there's an optimal temperature range stated. Some specify 50F or more for use.

 

[thecatumbrella]

I just went through this in my basement (temp was about 53).

Certain plate models/sizes perform better in lower temps, even within the same brand. After much trial and error, I ended up with the 16x16 heat plate from Premier 1. It performs really well. I kept the height a tad on the lower side and made sure they had a thick layer of bedding underneath to bed down in. I've also seen people lightly enclose the heat plate area to retain warmth.

Whatever you decide to do, test it BEFORE you get your chicks! We used a digital readout thermometer below the plate to see how it performed in different conditions. I like the bedding to at least be in the mid-70's (Fahrenheit) and the underside of the plate itself between 115-120. This is just my preference though, and I'm FAR from being an expert on these things.

Should add that I personally keep the chicks are room temp for at least 7-10 days before moving them downstairs.