Hi all, we are here in Vermont, in zone 4b. As the gardeners will know that means we typically see about -25 or -30 F WITHOUT windchill.
I have a max-min thermometer with a remote sensor. I am planning to order a second remote sensor, so that I can monitor:
outside temperature vs. inside chicken coop temperature. I plan to hang the chicken coop sensor near or above the roost.
I am constructing an insulated chicken coop, and will also have a thermostat-driven water heater, which I hope will heat both the water and my chickens. I also have windows to the south & west, and will be putting in some "thermal mass" to create a passive-solar heating system. I will probably use some simple jugs filled with water as thermal mass.
Most people say that a big factor in the question of heating is how many chickens do you have? If you have a flock of 20-25, they will keep each other warm. If you have 3-4, like me, you have to pay more attention.
The "number of chickens" should not be underestimated as a factor in whether or not to insulate or heat a coop. People who live on the tundra but have 100 chickens don't need to insulate or heat. Those with fewer chickens need to figure out what to do.
Each chicken is the equivalent of maybe a 50 watt heater!
I have a max-min thermometer with a remote sensor. I am planning to order a second remote sensor, so that I can monitor:
outside temperature vs. inside chicken coop temperature. I plan to hang the chicken coop sensor near or above the roost.
I am constructing an insulated chicken coop, and will also have a thermostat-driven water heater, which I hope will heat both the water and my chickens. I also have windows to the south & west, and will be putting in some "thermal mass" to create a passive-solar heating system. I will probably use some simple jugs filled with water as thermal mass.
Most people say that a big factor in the question of heating is how many chickens do you have? If you have a flock of 20-25, they will keep each other warm. If you have 3-4, like me, you have to pay more attention.
The "number of chickens" should not be underestimated as a factor in whether or not to insulate or heat a coop. People who live on the tundra but have 100 chickens don't need to insulate or heat. Those with fewer chickens need to figure out what to do.
Each chicken is the equivalent of maybe a 50 watt heater!
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