Rope lighting

[crc310]

I live in MI (zone 5/6). I have a brand new strand of red rope light. Can I use the rope lighting in the nest boxes? I have a 10'x10' shed with large totes for nest boxes. Was thinking of running a loop into each one to keep eggs from freezing. Thanks!

 

[redsoxs]

I didn't know those rope lights put off any heat?? I'd always be worried...if it's warm enough to keep my eggs from freezing, is it hot enough to light my coop on fire?

 

[SunHwaKwon]

Usually they are LED, I believe. If it's cold enough for the eggs to freeze, I don't think they put out enough heat to make a difference. Heating pads on low might help but you will still want to collect them asap.

 

[crc310]

I've heard of ppl using them in incubators and under seedling pots so they produce some heat, not thinking it produces enough to catch fire (not hot to touch). Yeah, may not be hot enough though. What about this I found at TSC? Says pad

can be used in nest area.

 

[SunHwaKwon]

Those look good and are the same price as the heating pads I use so if the size is right and the heat is adjustable that would work.

 

[crc310]

They may fight over the nest box to sleep in

It's hard to collect them before they freeze on some cold winter days, esp when it -30 with wind chill

We don't get to them until the evening. The cold wind blows right off the flat, empty crop land.

 

[Daox13]

if you have a rooster and get the multi colored ones you may end up with a pimp shack for him, just add a disco ball

 

[RonP]

Here is a link to my solution to frozen eggs.

It might offer you some ideas.

Heat the nesting boxes to stop eggs from freezing.