Using aquarium heaters

[BF Vince]

I just bought an aquarium water heater. Going to try it. Someone recommended putting it through Styrofoam for a little more protection.

Followup: I did get the aquarium water heater and it works like a charm. I have it in a 5 gal bucket that I made. It's been between 26-30 for a week and no frozen water which equals happy hens!

 

[centrarchid]

Like the OP, I use aquarium heaters on a regular basis. I also maintain a lot of chicken watering stations. The aquarium heaters are poorly suited for all the banking around and water level fluctuations realized with contraptions used to water chickens.

 

[BF Vince]

Like the OP, I use aquarium heaters on a regular basis. I also maintain a lot of chicken watering stations. The aquarium heaters are poorly suited for all the banking around and water level fluctuations realized with contraptions used to water chickens.

I only have one watering station (5 gallon bucket) and only 7 hens so this fit the bill for me. I am very happy with it. The heater I got has a suction cup and I was able to attach it toward the bottom of bucket where it comes out...so no more frozen water.

 

[aart]

I just bought an aquarium water heater. Going to try it. Someone recommended putting it through Styrofoam for a little more protection.

Styrofoam?

@BF Vince ...styrofoam?

 

[aart]

I have used an aq heater for 3 years now, works great.
No doubt you have to keep it covered, not a problem as I top off water every day.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/aarts-heated-waterer-with-horizontal-nipples.67256/

 

[PingoBags]

@BF Vince ...styrofoam?

Best guess is the styrofoam would float on top of the water while holding the heater, as the water dropped, so would the heater.

 

[BF Vince]

I have used an inexpensive aquarium heater through a pretty cold month or so. Has worked out great for me. Even if I had to replace it yearly it would be worth it. No frozen water in very cold winter weather here in Washington state. I use a 5 gal. bucket.

 

[CapricornFarm]

Best guess is the styrofoam would float on top of the water while holding the heater, as the water dropped, so would the heater.

BUT , chickens love styrofoam!

 

[007Sean]

BUT , chickens love styrofoam!

 

[CapricornFarm]

What is so funny, they will eat it.