Plastic or Galvanized Metal?

[Mandee]

I'm having trouble choosing the right material for feeders and waterer's for my chickens. I am kind of iffy about using plastic or polyethylene because it may leach harmful chemicals (such as BPA) after frequent use. Galvanized metal will eventually rust, and using certain supplements (such as ACV) will cause it to break down even quicker. Does anyone use old-fashioned glass? Please let me know. Thanks!

 

[K-Chick]

I choose galvanized due to the fact that if I put it outside it won't get scum on the inside from the sun. Think about how you will keep it warm in the winter too. I don't know how a plastic waterer will handle a heat lamp or whatever you will use. The ACV is a problem in galvanized tho. Six of one and a half a dozen of another. Thats an old saying meaning its a 50/50 choice. I'm sure I'm not helping much.

 

[lostsoulhelpmejebus]

I prefer galvanized for waterers. Every large ( 2 gallons or more) plastic one I have ever purchased has had a leaking issue, I end up throwing them away. Galvanized is more expensive but lasts longer, does not have leaking issues and I can also put it on top of a "heater" in the winter to keep the water open and not freeze. Just my opinion.

For little chicks the screw on base plastic waterers are fine until they go outside and need a dependable waterer.

 

[Glenda L Heywood]

when buying the plastic waterers which is what I used for yrs
they make them for heating bases in the winter now
you obly use a 25 watt up to 40 watt bulg and they are made for heat
ask the dealer when buying
I never had leaking problems with mine
also set te plastic water on a level board so it does not set side ways that would cause leaking
just be careful when putting the bottom lid on the jar

also you will want to water with apple cider vinegar and galvanized is not good

also any thing over gallon size is way too much water for a few chickens
I would use more of the gallon plastic waterers than a large galvanized one
chickens need water fresh at least once a dqy

the large waterers need changed at least once a day and are generally too much water

galvanized feeders last longer and are great for hens and roosters adult