How to use heat plate

[1stflockMama]

Our babies hatch next week and we are testing out our plate. As a first time chicken mom I have read so much in the past months... but one thing I can not figure out is how the temperature works for using a heat plate.
From my understanding the chick rests it's back against the top (a mimic to mom) so is the top temp 90-95? Or is ground level the 90-95?
I took pictures and there's a can for comparison on size.
I'm also worried about size, as I've experienced every advertisement exaggerates how many chicks fit in/under things lol
The back being closed is my last concern. Can someone get trapped or stuck in the back?
We are expecting 7 babies
Thankyou

 

[1stflockMama]

 

[thistlewick]

That looks like you have it set up right - slanted down towards the bottom.

Will you have them on bedding or just those puppy pee pads some people do? I only ask because bedding is softer, so they can snuggle in and get as cosy as they like under the plate.

Also, you will know if its not warm enough/if you don't have it low enough -- the chicks will be under it and screaming if it's too cold. They will let you know. If they go under it and are quiet and sleep well through the night, it's fine.

As they grow (you really don't need to mess with it for 2-3 of weeks at first they are all so small) just raise it up a little and keep the slant.

Looks great!

 

[1stflockMama]

We were going between hemp bedding or pee pads. We planned on possibly both.
Pee pad on bottom with hemp bedding on top, more dominantly by heat plate, and sparce by feed and water

 

[thistlewick]

We were going between hemp bedding or pee pads. We planned on possibly both.
Pee pad on bottom with hemp bedding on top, more dominantly by heat plate, and sparce by feed and water

Don't overthink it too much - these little birds can survive just fine outside when raised by a hen. They will be okay - and bedding or pee pads they will be alright. The heat plate looks great!

 

[rosemarythyme]

As it works on contact you don't measure temperature under it or in the air, it's the surface temperature of the plate that matters. Easiest way to test is simply hold your hand on it - should be noticeably warm but not so hot that you can't touch it.

To minimize chances of a chick getting "stuck" anywhere it's best to place it a few inches away from any wall on all sides.

 

[aart]

...as I've experienced every advertisement exaggerates how many chicks fit in/under things...

Yes, they do...as bad as the tiny coops.
How many chicks do you have?

What kind of plate is that...brand/model or link please?
I've never seen one with a temp indicator and adjustment.
Measuring the surface where chicks backs touch is usually 100-120°F from the reports I've seen here over the years....and matches my experience using an infrared temp indicator.

 

[1stflockMama]

Yes, they do...as bad as the tiny coops.
How many chicks do you have?

What kind of plate is that...brand/model or link please?
I've never seen one with a temp indicator and adjustment.
Measuring the surface where chicks backs touch is usually 100-120°F from the reports I've seen here over the years....and matches my experience using an infrared temp indicator.

DETODDA Upgrade Chick Brooder Heating Plate, 12" x 12" Brooder Heater for Chicks, Chicken Brooder Heater Plate with Adjustable Heights and Angle, Warmer Brooder plate for Chicks or Ducklings https://a.co/d/5nWRjZm

 

[1stflockMama]

Yes we fell for the 6-8 chicken coop and now have a shed on the way to transform! And a 208sq ft run

 

[1stflockMama]

Gold laced polish
Cookies and cream
White crested splash polish
Green queen
Dark brahma
Barnevelder
Mystery meal maker chick