Safest way to heat a chicken coop

[Amanda15]

What is the safest way to heat a chicken coop? I don't have chickens yet, but I was just wondering for next year.

Would a microwaveable heating pad even heat the coop at all? I was thinking about using that, but it might not even change the coop temp. Have any of you tried this, and if so did it work?

I know that I don't have to heat the coop, but I want the chickens to be happy and warm on cold winter nights. Any suggestions on what heat source I should use?

 

[maidenwolfx80]

None. They are more comfortable in the cold than in the heat. As long as there are no drafts, plenty of deep bedding and good ventilation then you need no extra heating elements. Adding any heat source could potentially cause fire to your coop. They have plenty of down and will snuggle up close on the roost and all that body heat will keep them warm.