Heated Waterer.... anyone using this product?

[tinybarnfarm]

I bought one just like the one in post no 1 and it works great. Orschlens farm and home store sells them cheaper than anybody and they sent out $5 off coupons for the waterer ($31.99 w/coupon). It's just like the non heated one I started out with that I have to keep clean. I have installed a nipple system but until I can perfect a heater for it I needed something that I knew was going to work. I purchased it knowing I would have to keep cleaning it out as the chickens got it dirty so for me it's no big deal. It has lived up to my expectations so far, it keeps the water from freezing but will require frequent cleaning depending on how messy your chickens are.

 

[bucky52]

heated seedling mats from amazon works good.and i can also use the heated mats for seed starting come spring.i read about this in my poultry magazine.and can also be used in the nest boxes to keep your eggs from freezing.

 

[TruGritCkn]

Quote:
Good Idea! I think that is super because I have wanted a seed starting heated mat forever. Now I have a few reasons to get one.

 

[GhostRider65]

I have this one.
works good so far and it's been 5 below here a couple nights, my only conplaint would be there easy fill hole on the stupid bottom of the thing, why on earth should it be that we have to tip it over to fill it................ darn thing makes a water mess when changing the water, the easy fill hole should have been placed at the top of the darn thing. Stupid Idea on the bottom IMO. Kim

 

[audioguy]

Quote:
Here is the problem. If the hole was on the top, when you removed it, all the water would pour out from gravity. I tried it when they were in the brooder. I took a waterer and drilled a hole in the top, thinking it would work. I had a tight fitting rubber plug to place in the hole. When I tried to fill it, the water would pour out as fast as I filled it. Again, gravity is the culprit.
That is another reason I do not use this type of waterer. Too much effort. I like simple.

 

[ChickenLittle74]

Quote:
Agreed! The top and base do not join together very well and I have had numerous accidents with the bottom dropping out all over me while transporting. Shavings in the tray are also a problem. Don't even attempt to do the quick flip over thingy to empty it out... the base comes off the top too easily. I have found that using a thick, old towel works to clear out the shavings and mess in the bottom tray. Just a few swoops to collect the gunk really works!

 

[mcjessen]

Quote:
I have this product and have been using it for a couple months now. I haven't had the water freeze at all and it's been below freezing for about a month and a half now.

The ONLY thing I don't like about it is the filling methods. Sounds like others have the same issue too....To refill it I have to take it in the house because our hoses are unhooked this time of year. I have to take it apart, fill, put the lid back on, carry it back outside (upside down) and flip it over to put it back on the raised surface. When I flip it over it spills water. BUT, I'm not sure of a way around that. I wish they made one that filled from the top and was sturdy enough to carry full to where you need it. All in all, it's working for what I need and is just a little inconvenient to fill and transport.

I don't have any shavings issue as the waterer is raised about 10-12 in off the ground in the run. Dirt and sand is another story.

 

[RoosterRanch]

Yep,

Bought one tonight. I intend to make a insulated sleeve to cover the white plastic part before I use it.

 

[PHILMAN]

Quote:
I agree why would you put that darn hole on the bottom ! It works thats for sure . I'm replacing it with a heated dog bowl . i hear that works good too .

 

[stephanimal]

I might be a little late, but I bought this one http://www.valleyvet.com/ct_detail.html?pgguid=50b49209-1440-4af3-b21b-cc9dee0b1d06&gas=heated%20waterer

I like it and it is outside plugged into a GFI outlet. It is reasonably priced. I do live in a warmer climate and it hasn't gotten below 20* here and the high today was in the 60s. I bought 2 of them and my husband is going to toy with the one and see if he can put a fill on the top--will let you know when he gets to it if it works or not.