How big should my waterer be?

[krv]

How many gallons should a chicken waterer be to last a week? We have 12 chickens (10 buff orpingtons, 1 americana, 1 standard black cochin) in the coop that it would be in? I would think that they drink more in the summer so you have to think of that when answering me. I am asking because I want one that will last through vacation this summer. Also, it would be nice to not have to add water everyday. But I am mainly thinking about vacation. My mother will help with feeding and waterering the chickens while we are on vacation and I want to make it as easy as possible for her.

Thanks,
krv

 

[rebelcowboysnb]

Right now in north Ga they go threw a half gallon a week a piece. So mid summer I'm assuming that there going to go threw a gallon a week a piece.

I have 2 three gallon waterers that I fill up about once a week with 12 hens an 2 roos

 

[Padre]

I agree, I have 28 chicks 5 weeks old an I fill there waterer twice a day. You would be better off getting say 4 3 gal waterers that getting one huge one, because they need to be cleaned up at each filling. I think it would be much easier for your mom to handle them that way. Just my thoughts, hope they help.

 

[CityChook]

I don't know where you are located, but my chickens drink WAY more in the winter than they do in the summer. Don't know why. But it's REALLY cold here in the winter.

BTW, while the water may not run dry, it will get dirty. You'll probably want to give them fresh water once a day, so the smaller and easier to handle, the better.