Winter Waterer Success at -17F

[gtaus]

For anyone interested in heated water for winter, I just wanted to pass on that my Little Giant metal 3 gallon poultry fount with heater base is working fine at -17F. Water is not frozen even though I am.

The specs on the metal base heater state it will keep water from freezing down to +10F. For those of us living in snow country, that means mid-October. Fortunately, the metal base heater is performing much better than its specs. Last night we got down to -17F and water was not frozen this morning when I checked and temp was -9F.

For people considering heated water options for their chickens, I would have to say that I am very happy with the performance of my combo metal 3 gallon waterer and base heater.

 

[Matilda Belle]

Good to know! Thanks!

 

[wamtazlady]

That is wonderful!! I think it is great when we find something that works well for our particular weather.

 

[Chicks 'n ducks]

I use this combo- works great for me too!

 

[Folly's place]

I've used this for over 20 years, and it works very well. I use two, in separate areas of my coop, so if one fails, the other will be working. I have them up on concrete blocks, out of the shavings, on GFI outlets.
Mary

 

[gtaus]

I've used this for over 20 years, and it works very well. I use two, in separate areas of my coop, so if one fails, the other will be working. I have them up on concrete blocks, out of the shavings, on GFI outlets.
Mary

I will probably be buying a second combo when/if they go on sale this winter. I put my base heater on a patio block, out of the shavings, and it is on a GFI outlet like yours.

I know this combo is not the cheapest option, but it sure has worked good for me. Also, if anyone is interested in buying these items, I did not get mine from Amazon. My local farm store sells them for cheaper than Amazon plus I got them on an additional sale at my farm store. The Amazon links I provided where for information on these items.

 

[Folly's place]

I watch for the sales too!
I use the three gallon waterers when I can find them. The five gallon waterers are too heavy to be easy to carry, and the handles tear off the metal cover, not a good thing. Stick to the two or three gallon sizes.
Mary

 

[Mimi13]

I know this combo is not the cheapest option, but it sure has worked good for me.

Sometimes we shouldn’t worry so much about what is cheapest, but what will serve to keep our birds at their healthiest. Chickens cannot go without water and having a tried and true water heater is a must.

 

[gtaus]

Stick to the two or three gallon sizes.

I can tell you that my 3 gallon waterer lasts my 10 chickens for 7-10 days before I have to refill.

 

[Acre4Me]

Good to hear! We have the same combo, and it is working well! It is our first year with this water system - last year we used a heated dog bowl.