water troubles.. going away and water freezes

[DeGriz]

Quote:
I think BantyRooster hit it on the head there, using what you already have.

Although I would return the 1 quart bowl and get a 1.25 gallon one if you can, it should be about the same price.(got mine for $19.99) It would be a more stable platform to use the pan on top of.

By itself, the 1 quart waterer is no way good enough for 3 chickens over 4/5 days, but with his method and the power strip it should keep the 3 gallon one warm enough to keep from freezing solid.

Either way, if they are going to be locked up 24/4-5 it's going to be pretty messy when you get back.

Good Luck

 

[Jody]

Well, today I put a lamp in between 4 cinder blocks with cookie sheet under the plastic waterer. It is one of those moving arm desk lamps.. all I had, so one of the blocks is on the side so arm can go through the hole, then I put wood over it and piled shavings over the wood. I hope this does not start a fire if shavings get in where the light is through the hole in block or via the little spaces in between.

I also left the heated bowl there, right next to the plastic waterer.. for some reason I thought it was 3gal, but turns out is only 1gal

 

[LynneP]

Call your local 4-H club and see if a responsible youngster can step in and check the birds daily.
Safer for your property too, to have someone looking in.
You might even be able to trade creature care with a 4-H family.