As a chicken owner, keeping your flock hydrated during the cold winter months can be a challenge. One of the most common problems you may encounter is freezing water in your chicken waterer.
However, there are several ways to prevent this from happening.
In this article, I will share with you how we keep our chicken waterer from freezing and other tips and tricks to ensure your chickens have access to clean, fresh water all winter long.
Our Waterer Set Up
Floating Stock Tank Deicer
Our year-round waterer setup consists of a food-grade 5-gallon bucket with a lid, and around the bottom are horizontal waterers, also known as poultry nipples. We have been using this setup for two years, and it keeps the water clean and the chickens from getting water on their wattles. However, when the temperature drops, and the water starts to ice over, we add a floating stock tank deicer to prevent the water from freezing.
Using a Floating Stock Tank Deicer
A floating stock tank deicer is a device designed to prevent water from freezing in stock tanks, troughs, and other outdoor livestock watering containers. It is also safe for plastic and outdoor use, making it an excellent option for chicken waterers. The deicer keeps the water around 45 degrees F and only turns on when the water temperature drops below 35 degrees F. We have found this to be a reliable and affordable way to keep our chicken waterer from freezing.
Safety Concerns
One question that often arises is whether it is safe to use a floating stock tank deicer with an extension cord. Some deicers specifically state in the instructions not to plug them into an extension cord and to plug directly into an outlet.
In our experience, we have used a heavy-duty outdoor cord, raised off the ground, with no issues. However, we check everything daily to ensure that everything is working properly and there are no safety hazards.
Other Methods for Keeping Chicken Waterer from Freezing
- Insulate the Waterer
One of the easiest ways to prevent a chicken waterer from freezing is by insulating it. You can do this by wrapping a layer of insulation material around the waterer, such as foam pipe insulation or bubble wrap. This will help to retain the heat and prevent the water from freezing.
- Use a Heated Waterer
A heated waterer is another great option for keeping your chicken’s water from freezing. These types of waterers are designed with a heating element that keeps the water warm, even in sub-zero temperatures. You can find heated waterers at most farm supply stores or online retailers.
- Add Warm Water to the Waterer
Adding warm water to the waterer can also help to prevent it from freezing. Simply add some hot water to the waterer periodically throughout the day. This will help to keep the water temperature above freezing and prevent ice from forming.
- Keep the Waterer in a Sheltered Area
Placing the waterer in a sheltered area can also help to keep it from freezing. You can put it in a covered area, such as a coop or shed, or you can use a tarp or other covering to create a shelter. This will help to protect the waterer from the wind and other elements that can contribute to freezing.
- Use a Heater or Heat Lamp
Another option for preventing a chicken waterer from freezing is to use a heater or heat lamp. You can place the heater or lamp near the waterer to provide warmth and prevent freezing. However, it is important to use caution when using a heat source around chickens, as they can be easily injured if they come into contact with it.
- Use a Saltwater Solution
Adding a saltwater solution to the waterer can also help to prevent freezing. Simply mix salt into the water until it dissolves. The salt lowers the freezing point of the water, which means it will take longer to freeze. However, it is important to use caution when using salt around chickens, as too much salt can be harmful to their health.
- Use an Automatic Waterer
An automatic waterer is another great option for keeping your chicken’s water from freezing. These types of waterers are designed to keep the water flowing, which helps to prevent it from freezing. You can find automatic waterers at most farm supply stores or online retailers.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your chicken waterer from freezing is essential for ensuring that your flock has access to clean, fresh water throughout the winter.
While there are several methods to prevent freezing, we have found that using a floating stock tank deicer with our setup works best for us.
Remember to always check your waterer daily for any issues and use caution when using any electrical devices near your chickens. With these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your chickens stay hydrated and healthy all winter long.
