I need some opinions

[coolcanoechic]

I have been searching online for days looking for a heated chicken waterer that would be just right for 3 full sized hens. I am a newbie and trying to get everything set up just right for when the hens arrive. Just when I think I want to buy something, I read the reviews and back off. Can anyone relate their experiences with heated chicken waterers to help me make a decision? Thanks everyone.
Nancy

 

[JodyJo]

http://www.fleetfarm.com/catalog/product_detail/farm-livestock/livestock-supplies-equipment/watering-feeding/farm-innovations-poultry-waterer-heated-base?utm_source=googleps&utm_medium=shopping%2Bsearch&utm_campaign=google%2Bproduct%20search

this is the one I use...love it. I keep it in the coop, in the corner, it turns itself on at around 32*....keeps the water from freezing...that is until it drops to the sub zeros...then you usually only need to scoop out the ice. I had to take it in the house once last year at -20* and thaw it out...not bad!

 

[coolcanoechic]

I have been looking at those. The plastic waterers have had some issues, so I have noticed by reading the reviews. These bases you showed me....they can only be used with metal waterers? Is using a metal waterer with the metal base the best way to go?

 

[JodyJo]

I do like my metal waterer, never had an issue with it...I can sterilize it easier I think and it won't crack in extreme cold...

worth buying if you are serious and don't want to replace a plastic one...just my opinion though!

 

[JodyJo]

Quote:
yes, only with metal

 

[jeepguy982001]

maybe you should check out some of the cookie tin heater post there cheap and seem to work well.

 

[jmagill]

I use a 2.5 gallon bucket with nipples ( one or two) and and a 25 watt aquarium heater. A bit do it yourself but clean water all the time and low watts.

 

[Beekissed]

Three hens? Heated dog bowl....no problems, no issues, just a bowl that doesn't allow the water to freeze. End of story.

 

[mcjessen]

I just bought this one about two weeks ago for my three hens.

http://www.mypetchicken.com/catalog...ies/Heated-Waterer-Plastic-3-Gallon-p505.aspx

I just noticed your concern about the plastic waterers. I haven't have any problems however, I really wish you could fill it from the top. This one fills from the bottom and you have to flip it over to put it in place. It's a little awkward to carry also. I wasn't willing to spend the $50+ on the metal base heater though so the plastic one was my only option. So far so good.

 

[amenfarm]

I can't say how a heated dog bowl works for chickens, but I've had the same one for my dog for 8+ years and it's also the everyday waterer- works great year after year. Came from TSC, it's what I'll use for my chickens.