I tested out my heat lamp today...

[Moselle]

I have a (roughly) 5sqft plastic bin for our brooder. I set up the heat lamp w/red infrared bulb and cheap thermometer in our kitchen, but even with the lamp pointed straight at the thermometer (about 18" away), it only got up to 90*. Is that going to be warm enough for the chicks for the first week? Should I add another lamp w/ a 100 watt bulb?

 

[Xtradust]

Ya might have to use a higher wattage infrared bulb.

As long as it's between 90-95 under the lamp and they can all reach the heat, you should be fine.

Mine are in the house too. Just keep an eye on the temps at night. Ours drop because it's cooler in the house.

Good luck!
Matt