Which Drinkers Are Right For Where You Live?
In summer, the water lines are too hot, and chickens will avoid drinking from them. In winter, the lines can freeze, and water becomes unavailable. Nipple drinkers are also a poor choice, as your birds do not get enough water when hydration is crucial. Avoid any drinkers that are made of metal or have metal parts; not only do they heat up faster, but also retain heat longer.
There is no argument that auto-fill drinkers are convenient and provide an easier chore list, but do they? Maintenance is definitely an issue, as parts fail and need replacement more often than you might think. The best way to care for your chickens is to depend on yourself.
If you live in a territory where temperatures can reach triple digits, your birds need an ample source of cool water. There’s only one way to offer that necessity: large containers. The bigger, the better, because the water stays cooler in masses. Top-fill drinkers are best so you can easily replace the water with cool water or add ice on those really hot days. Run the hose long enough to get cold water, as a hose in the sun can hold very hot water, especially in triple-digit temperatures.
Here in Phoenix, Arizona, the temperature has been between 110 and 117 for over a month now. Our chickens’ water source consists of 2 six-gallon top-fill drinkers. We add a large pitcher of ice twice a day. Additionally, a large fan and mist systems cover a substantial area of the chicken yard.
On our farm we use this drinker, make sure you drill a few holes in the cover, otherwise, it forms a vacuum and restricts water flow. You’ll conveniently find this and many similar drinkers readily available on Amazon.
Undecided Which Drinker Is Best For Your Needs?
TBN Ranch Chicken Keeping Resources 