solar lights in the coop

[phengel]

does anyone know if solar lights provide any heat in the coop?

thanks! Pam

 

[First-time-raising]

The only solar lights that I know of are solar landscaping lights which would not give any heat. Maybe you mean running lights though power generated by solar power then that would be just the same as running lights with electicity.

 

[phengel]

I guess I was looking at the "solar shed lights" and those are fluorescent, and fairly cheap. And a full charge they say lasts about 5 hours, which would preclude the need of a timer if it goes out by itself...I guess so long as it recharges fully the next day. Was HOPING it gave off some heat so the water would'nt freeze. am not planning to "heat" the coop, have 3 full size and 2 banties in a 4 x 4 coop (with additional run) that will be "wrapped" in plastic to cut the wind. I will probably break down (and talk my husband into) using an electrical cord to put in at least a water warmer. (then they will all be vying for a seat on the waterer

)

thanks for answer...

Pam

 

[First-time-raising]

I did a little searching for the solar shed lights. I'm would say that they would not put off enough heat to keep water from freezing ( They just do not have a very large watt bulb ) but again your coop is small .You said its 4x4 how tall is it? The light would work great for supplementing light for the short winter days if you have layers.

 

[phengel]

sorry, forgot to add height! it is about 3 feet at the edges, and the peek is about 4-1/2 feet. it is up off the ground by about 18 inches to allow for more run room (was patterned after the "playhouse coop" in the small coops of the coop section, but husband made it double-deep).

But I do like the idea of a light on for them, even if it does not give off much/no heat, so may go that route anyway.

Pam

 

[TxChiknRanchers]

Do a search for lighting here. There are some interesting points about artificial lighting in coops during winter.

 

[phengel]

will do that search...always forget about that!!!

 

[AtRendeAcres]

it will not give off heat
and the light needs to be on timer
(also in the winter if there is not enough sun the light won't charge)