Pros and Cons using this type of waterer

[and1223]

Are there any pros or cons using this method of watering system? I have 9 hens and 1 Rooster. I don’t have to worry about the water freezing up since I live in non freezing climate. I’m looking for a watering system where I can add a supplement like ACV as oppose to a fountain. Any feedback is much appreciated I’m also interested in using a larger size igloo as oppose to a 5 gallon Lowe’s bucket.

 

[GodLovesU]

I use this. I would definitely recommend getting a lid and some good quality cups.

 

[May Wine]

I have similar and it’s a pain to keep clean. There are fancy stands to put the bucket on but I currently have water and feed wired to the fence.

I don’t know how they do it but they manage to sling poop and dirt into both.

So - new plan was to put pavers below but now looking at a nipple system. Lots of choices on Amazon, including stainless steel pig waterers.

 

[thecatumbrella]

I'll occasionally use auto-fill cups on my waterers. The chickens love them. I hate them.

They take about 0.3 seconds to get scummy. Someone drinks with muck on their beak. Or they'll end up dust bathing immediately next to the waterer, filling the cups with debris. I end up using a turkey baster to clear the cups twice a day.

I've settled on vertical nipples in the summer. Horizontal for winter.

 

[FarmerGirl101]

I use a similar set up with a 5 gallon bucket and horizontal cup nipples and it works great. This are the specific horizontal cup nipples that I use and they work great. My one note is that you should add a lid so dirt doesn't get in there.

I love this setup a lot as the nipples are cleaner than the traditional cup nipples and there is essentially no algae growth (just make sure to wash after adding something to the water). I've used a lot of different nipples and these have worked best. I also hang my bucket which helps a lot for keeping it clean.