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Should I change my brooder light?

Discussion in 'Raising Baby Chicks' started by RitzHomestead, Feb 26, 2015.

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  1. Feb 26, 2015 #1
    RitzHomestead

    RitzHomestead Chillin' With My Peeps

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    Feb 19, 2015
    Marble Hill, GA
    I am currently using the heating red bulb for my 3 week old chicks and it has been working great they are comfortable and sleep just on the outside ring of the light. I was wondering though, when should I start to integrate them to get used to the dark. They are in a heated basement that stays around 70 degrees maybe a little cooler but not much, should I turn off their light for a few hours in the evening? Just feel as though they should get a break from that light constantly being on. I am new to all this so this may be a dumb question lol.

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  3. Feb 26, 2015 #2
    familyfarm1

    familyfarm1 Overrun With Chickens

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    Jun 9, 2013
    Northern Virginia
    I just keep it on until I think they have enough feathering and then put them outside. But that's just what I do.
     
    Last edited: Feb 26, 2015
  5. Feb 28, 2015 #3
    chickengirl1230

    chickengirl1230 Chillin' With My Peeps

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    In the coop in Tennessee
    Probably 30 mins would be the longest. At three weeks the coldest they can get would be about 80 degrees Fahrenheit
     
  7. Mar 1, 2015 #4
    aart

    aart Chicken Juggler! Premium Member

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    It is nice to start them on a day night cycle after the first few days.......
    ......but you have to find a different source of heat, because they do need the heat 24/7 for 4-5 weeks at least.

    Other options are the brooder plates or ceramic heating elements used for reptiles.

    I DIY'd a brooder plate out of a heating pad that worked pretty good.
     

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