water heater in the coop?

[kbu]

has anyone used one of these metal water heater base items? it stated on the box - outside use - but has anyone used one in the coop? i was planning on inside the coop and keep it a bit elevated so it is not in direct contact with the straw.

 

[woodmort]

Yes I've used them in the coop for years--I do put them up on bricks that completely cover the bottom to prevent mice from getting underneath. They're thermostatically controlled--metal waffle type and only go on when temps fall below 32. Be aware that they aren't to be used with plastic waterers though.

 

[kbu]

thanks for the insite. i have a double walled metal waterer and some bricks so all should be good to go. thanks again.

 

[nuttyredhead]

Im following this one, i had the same question. I picked up this one

http://www.tractorsupply.com/livest...equipment/farm-innovators-heater-base-2167298

So you just plug it in and thats it? It doesnt get hot until it drops below freezing? I use shavings on my coop, is their a fire danger?

 

[Smoky73]

Quote:
Yup, that is theone I have for my large fowl, as they drink more than agallon a day. I have mine in my coop and hubby built a wooden base with edges so that it cannot be knocked off the wooden base into the wood shavings. I then use a large rubber bowl for water over it (I think about 4 - 5 gallons? And yes, it has a thermostat so that it will not kick on until the temps reach around 35-40°F

 

[woodmort]

Quote:
I've used one of those for 25 years. The only problem I've had is mice getting in under it, building a nest and chewing the wires. Make sure that when you put it up on bricks or pavers--which is recommended and will keep it out of the shavings--that the bottom is completely covered so the varmints can't get inside. BTW, a combination of water and chicken manure will eventually corrode them out. I figure on mine lasting 5 or 6 years.

 

[kbu]

Quote:
got mine at BIG R (like TSC). it is the same and was a bit cheaper at my Big R. (plus i have a card for % back there

) checked on line but could not find this on the company site.
good luck to you this winter...time to run the electricity here!