I had the same problem. My silkie pullet loved to perch on my double-walled siphon waterer and I was cleaning the poop out of it every morning. So, I bought 2 water bottles with the brackets that you hang on the side of the coop -- often used for rabbits, guinea pigs. They have a metal spout with a ball bearing at the end. The chooks learned right away how to nudge the ball bearing and get plenty to drink.
I have only a micro-flock though, 3 chooks. This wouldn't be a workable solution for a bunch of chickens.
I have only a micro-flock though, 3 chooks. This wouldn't be a workable solution for a bunch of chickens.