I use a 44 quart tote with lid, horizontal nipples, and a stock tank deicer that is okay to use in plastic. Keeps my 12 chickens in water for over a week. Water stays clean and thawed. Last winter it got down to -22. I went out to check on the water. Water was still thawed. I have a heated dog dish for backup just in case my system ever breaks down. My system is going on its 4th year now and has never frozen.