Winter can be challenging for backyard chicken keepers. The temperature drops, and chickens need a heater or heat lamp, as well as the best chicken waterer for winter, to unfreeze the water in low temperatures.
A chicken waterer is essential in winter as chickens can suffer from dehydration as quickly in winter as in summer. Your chicken’s health and egg production can plummet without a reliable waterer.
In this article, we’ll explore the best chicken waterers for winter, how to choose the right one for your flock, and practical tips to keep their water from freezing.
Table of Contents
Why Winter Hydration is Critical for Chickens
Chickens need constant access to water to regulate their body temperature, digest food, and maintain overall health.
In colder months, not having access to water can lead to frostbite, reduced hen egg production, and even cause death.
According to a 2022 study by the University of Minnesota, chickens consume up to 30% less water in cold weather, making it even more crucial to ensure their water supply is accessible and unfrozen in the wintertime.
Top 6 Best Chicken Waterer For Winter
Here are the best chicken waterers for winter under $60, based on durability, functionality, and customer reviews:
Best Poultry Waterer for Winter by Farm Innovators
- 15 chickens
- 2-gallon capacity
- Drip-free nipples
- Freeze-free
- Efficient
- Durable
- Easy to refill
Dog Bowls & Feeders Best Chicken Waterer for Winter
- Effective
- Energy-efficient
- Thermostatic
- Heavy-duty
- Anti-chew cord
- Multiple chickens
- Durable
Farm Innovators Blue Best Chicken Waterer for Winter
- Energy-efficient
- Thermostatic
- Durable
- Anti-tip design
- Anti-chew cord
- Versatile
- Safe
Best Chicken Waterer For Winter
- Energy-efficient
- Reliable Performance
- Easy to Clean
- Durable Build
- Cost-effective
Large Best Chicken Waterer for Winter
- Large flocks
- 6.25-gallon
- Top-fill design
- Durable
- Compatible heated bases
- Easy to assemble
Poultry Waterers Best Chicken Waterer for Winter
- Reliable
- Easy to refill
- Nipple drinkers
- Prevent contamination
- Durable
- Versatile
Let’s review best chicken waterer for winter in detail with their specifications as well as what we like about it and what we don’t.
Best Poultry Waterer for Winter by Farm Innovators
Capacity: 2.25 gallons (9 quarts)
Power: 60 watts
Material: Durable plastic, heavy-duty metal handle
Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 11 inches
Weight: 3.25 pounds
Nipples: 3 side-mounted, drip-free, and freeze-free
Stock Availability: Available
Frozen water sources are a common problem, but the Farm Innovators Heated Chicken Waterer is here to solve that.
Designed to provide year-round clean water, this 2-gallon poultry drinker ensures your chickens stay hydrated, even in subzero temperatures.
With its thermostatically controlled 60-watt heater, durable construction, and drip-free, freeze-free nipples, this is the best chicken waterer for winter.
Key Features of the Farm Innovators Heated Chicken Waterer:
Year-Round Clean Water:
Prevents water from freezing, even in snow temperatures, and ensures your chickens have access to clean, unfrozen water 24/7.
2-Gallon Capacity:
It has a 2.25-gallon (9 quarts) capacity, perfect for up to 15 chickens. With a removable top for easy refilling and cleaning.
Thermostatically Controlled Heater:
This 60-watt heater operates only when necessary, ensuring maximum energy efficiency. It automatically adjusts to temperature changes, saving you time and effort.
Drip-Free and Freeze-Free Nipples:
Features 3 side-mounted nipples designed to prevent dripping and freezing. It serves multiple chickens simultaneously..
Durable and Weather-Resistant:
Constructed from heavy-duty plastic to withstand harsh weather conditions. Its translucent bucket allows you to easily monitor water levels.
Versatile Placement Options:
Can be hung using a heavy-duty metal handle or placed on a flat surface. This is ideal for coops, barns, or outdoor use.
PROS
- Serves up to 15 chickens
- 2-gallon capacity
- Drip-free and freeze-free nipples
- Minimal mess and maximum efficiency
- Durable construction
- Easy to refill
- Easy to clean
CONS
- Requires access electricity
Dog Bowls & Feeders Best Chicken Waterer for Winter
Material: Durable plastic
Size: 6 Qt (1.5 Gallons)
Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 8 inches
Weight: 4.52 pounds
Power: 60 Watts
Style: 2 Pack
Care Instructions: Hand wash
Stock Availability: Available
The 2nd on the list is Farm Innovators P-60 1.5 Gallon 60 Watt Electric Heated Pet Water and feeder Bowl.
This waterer prevents freezing and ensures your chicken’s hydration.
Whether you’re caring for chickens, dogs, cats, or other farm animals, this durable and energy-efficient solution is a must-have for winter.
With thermostatic control, an anti-chew cord, and a 1.5-gallon capacity, this bowl is built to last and keep your pets safe.
It’s a cost-effective way to maintain hydration and health during the coldest months of your chickens.
Key features of the USA best chicken waterer for winter:
Thermostatic Control:
Automatically turns on when temperatures drop and off when not needed, saving energy and preventing overheating.
Anti-Chew Cord Protector:
Heavy-duty cord design ensures your pets can’t chew through it, enhancing safety and durability.
Large 1.5-Gallon Capacity:
Ideal for multiple pets or farm animals, reducing the need for multiple bowls and saving you money.
Durable Plastic Construction:
Built to withstand wear and tear, this bowl is both lightweight and long-lasting.
60-Watt Efficient Heating:
Provides fast and reliable heating to keep water from freezing, even in harsh winter.
Pros
- Effectively prevents water from freezing
- Energy-efficient
- Thermostatic control
- Heavy-duty
- Anti-chew cord protects against damage
- Accommodates multiple chickens
- Durable and easy to clean
Cons
- Requires an electrical outlet
Farm Innovators Blue Best Chicken Waterer for Winter
Dimensions: 13 x 13 x 4 inches
Weight: 2.49 pounds
Material: Stainless steel insert with a durable plastic exterior
Power: 40 watts
Capacity: 3 quarts
Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
Stock Availability: Available
This is the best waterer from Farm Innovators, the ultimate solution to keep your chicken’s water drinkle in winter.
Designed with durability and convenience, this heated pet bowl ensures your feather friends stay hydrated year-round.
With its thermostatic control, stainless steel insert, and anti-chew cord protector, this bowl is a reliable choice for pet owners seeking a high-quality, low-maintenance solution.
Whether you’re looking for the best chicken waterer for winter a heated bowl for a few chickens or a large flock, the SB-40 delivers unmatched performance and safety.
Some key features of poultry best chicken waterer for winter:
Thermostatic Control:
Automatically turns on when temperatures drop and shut off when not needed, ensuring energy efficiency and consistent water temperature.
Durability:
The stainless steel insert is rust-resistant, easy to clean, and built to last, making it ideal for both pets and poultry.
Anti-Tip, Non-Skid Rubber Base:
Features a non-skid rubber bottom to prevent spills and tipping, even with active chickens or other animals.
Anti-Chew Cord Protector:
The anti-chew cord protector ensures safety by deterring chickens from damaging the power cord.
Fast Heating:
With 40 watts of power, this bowl heats water quickly and efficiently, preventing freezing even in extreme cold.
3-Quart Capacity:
The 3-quart capacity is perfect for multiple pets or small livestock, providing ample water supply without frequent refills.
Pros
- Energy-efficient thermostatic control
- Easy to clean and highly durable
- Anti-tip design prevents spills
- Anti-chew cord protectors
- Versatile
- Safe
Cons
- Cord length may be short for some setups, requiring an extension cord in certain cases
- Too lightweight
Best Chicken Waterer For Winter
Power: 125 watts
Temperature Range: Activates below 35°F, prevents freezing down to 10°F
Compatibility: Double-wall metal poultry founts only
Dimensions: 17 x 16.5 x 4.25 inches
Weight: 3.54 pounds
Material: Metal
Warranty: 1-year limited warranty
Stock Availability: Available
The Farm Innovators HP-125 Heated Base is the 4th ultimate solution for you, it’s an affordable waterer for chickens that ensures reliable hydration.
Designed to prevent water from freezing in double-wall metal poultry founts, this 125-watt heated base is a must-have for chickens.
It is also thermostatically controlled and activates only when temperatures drop below 35°F, ensuring energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Key features of this 5-gallon heated chicken waterer:
Thermostatically Controlled:
The heated base operates only when temperatures fall below 35°F, ensuring energy efficiency and preventing unnecessary power usage.
Frost Prevention:
Keeps water from freezing in temperatures as low as 10°F, providing reliable hydration for your birds even in the coldest conditions.
Compatibility:
Designed exclusively for use with double-wall metal poultry founts, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance.
Easy Maintenance:
A bottom cover protects the heating element from straw and debris, extending the unit’s lifespan and maintaining functionality.
Versatile Placement:
Perfect for use in chicken coops, pens, and runs, making it an essential accessory for poultry owners.
Durable Construction:
Made with high-quality materials, this heated base is perfect for outdoor conditions while providing long-lasting performance.
Pros
- Energy-efficient
- Reliable Performance
- Easy to Clean
- Durable Build
- Cost-effective
Cons
- Intended for outdoor use
- Seems like low quality
Large Best Chicken Waterer for Winter
Capacity: 6.25 gallons
Dimensions: 17 x 17 x 21 inches
Weight: 3.3 pounds
Material: BPA-free plastic
Stock Availability: Available
The Harris Farms Large Flock Easy-Fill Poultry Drinker is a reliable, durable, and efficient watering system for chickens.
This accommodates up to 100 chickens, this 6.25-gallon poultry drinker is crafted from BPA-free plastic, ensuring safety and longevity.
Its top-fill design and easy-clean features make it a hassle-free choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
Key Features of this best chicken waterer for large flocks:
Large Capacity:
With a 6.25-gallon capacity, this drinker is perfect for large flocks of up to 100 chickens or gamebirds, ensuring your birds stay hydrated without constant refills.
Top-Fill Design for Easy Refilling:
The top-fill bucket design simplifies refilling, while the float system in the base ensures water is evenly distributed to the rim.
Durable and Safe Construction:
Made from BPA-free plastic, this drinker is built to last, offering excellent durability for long-term use.
Indoor and Outdoor Versatility:
Suitable for all seasons, this drinker can be paired with the Manna Pro Harris Farms Heated Poultry Drinker Base for cold winter temperatures, making it a long-lasting waterer.
Quick and Simple Assembly:
Comes with step-by-step instructions for easy setup, saving you time and effort.
Pros
- Ideal for large flocks
- 6.25-gallon capacity.
- Refilling and cleaning is easy
- Durable BPA-free plastic
- Compatible with heated bases
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- If not properly assembled, it sometimes leaks
- The sturdiness is being questioned by buyers
Poultry Waterers Best Chicken Waterer for Winter
Capacity: 3 gallons
Dimensions: 13” x 13” x 14”
Weight: 6.3 pounds
Heating: 100 watts
Thermostat Range: On at 40°F, off at 60°F
Cord Length: 16 feet (detachable)
Nipples: 3 recessed nipples + 3 spare nipples
Material: BPA-free plastic
Stock Availability: Available
The Premier Heated Poultry Waterer for Chickens and Ducks has a 3-gallon capacity. With a 100-watt heating element and a built-in thermostat, this blue & red best chicken waterer ensures water remains unfrozen.
Whether you’re raising chickens or ducks, this 3-gallon capacity waterer is perfect for up to 35 adult birds, providing clean, fresh water year-round.
With features like quick-fill caps, drip-catch nipples, and a 16-foot detachable cord, this waterer is built for convenience, durability, and efficiency.
Key Features of this waterer for winter:
With thermostat:
The 100-watt heating element is controlled by a built-in thermostat, activating at 40°F and turning off at 60°F.
Quick-Fill Cap for Easy Refilling:
The insulated lid prevents freezing, but if it does freeze, the hinged quick-fill cap allows you to refill the waterer without removing the lid.
Clean Water with Nipple Drinkers:
Equipped with 3 recessed nipples, this waterer keeps water clean and fresh. Includes 3 spare nipples to replace any that may clog over time.
Durable and Versatile Design:
Features a heavy-duty handle for easy carrying or hanging. The conical lid design prevents birds from perching and soiling the waterer, while the insulated lid traps warm air inside.
4-Season Usability:
The 16-foot detachable electrical cord allows for flexible placement and can be removed during non-winter months.
Large Capacity for Flocks:
With a 3-gallon capacity, this waterer is ideal for up to 35 adult chickens. Ducks can also use it, though an additional water source is recommended for submersion.
BPA-Free and Safe:
Made from BPA-free plastic, this waterer is safe for your poultry and built to last.
Pros
- Reliable heating system
- Easy to refill
- Nipple drinkers prevent contamination
- Durable construction
- Versatile Use
Cons
- Must be plugged in for the heating element to function
- Somehow hard to find their parts
Conclusion
Choosing the best chicken waterer for winter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on your needs, you can find a solution that works best for you.
Whether you opt for the farm innovator’s heated best poultry waterer or another brand waterer, your chickens will thank you for keeping their water ice-free and accessible.
Don’t let winter freeze your flock’s hydration, take action today to ensure their health and productivity all season long.
FAQs
Why Investing in a Quality Winter Waterer Pays Off?
According to the American Poultry Association, flocks with consistent access to water during winter experience a 20% higher egg production rate than those without. By investing in a quality waterer, you’re not only safeguarding your chickens’ health but also ensuring a steady supply of eggs throughout the colder months.
How to Prevent Water from Freezing in Winter?
Here are some tips: Wrap the waterer in insulation or place it inside a thermal cover to retain heat. Keep it off the ground to reduce heat loss to the cold earth. Monitor the waterer throughout the day to ensure it’s functioning properly. A small amount can lower the freezing point of water slightly and provide health benefits for your flock.
What is the best water system for chickens in winter?
Heated poultry waterers or heated bases for waterers are the best options to prevent freezing and ensure a constant water supply.
How do you give chickens water in the winter?
Use heated waterers, or insulated containers, or replace frozen water frequently with fresh, lukewarm water.
What can I do to keep my chicken’s water from freezing?
Use heated waterers, add a heated base, insulate the water container, or place it in a sunny, sheltered area.
How long will 5 gallons of water last for four chickens?
Approximately 2-3 days, as chickens drink about 1-2 cups of water per day each.
What is the best chicken waterer for large flock?
A large-capacity heated poultry waterer like the Premier and Harris brand is ideal for large flocks.
Hello! I’m Ibrahim, the owner and writer of this blog. I run a chicken farm with 160 chickens, and I’ve gained a lot of knowledge about raising and caring for them. Now, I want to share my insights and experiences with you to help you in chicken keeping.