I think the silver thing you're referring to is the feeder, not a waterer.
I tried to put water in one of those one time, too. It just doesn't work. Get the plastic one with a red base, like others have said. Can't wait to see pics!
Pics are coming- my hubby took the camera on a deer hunting trip this weekend. It will be first of the week before I can get them on. I can't complain too much, he took all the kids, too.
The chicks have settled down and chirp quietly. I am so hooked. Now that I got the waterer straightened out ( yes, I was trying to use a feeder for water) It is going great.