– Neighborly Advice –
Is it time for a frost-free waterer?
Advantages include improvements and convenience for your livestock operation
By Rusty Bennett, Senior Category Manager, Livestock Equipment
Ready access to water is a key element in the success of a high-performing livestock operation. With colder weather in the forecast, now would be a great opportunity to install an automatic, frost-free waterer on your farm. Your Co-op offers a number of options, including Ritchie, Mirafount, Behlen, and Tru-Test brands, which are available at many of our stores.
These automatic waterers are insulated to provide energy-free freeze protection from the cold weather. They are available in a wide variety for different herd sizes.
These waterers all rely on a float ball design to reduce the chance of the water source from freezing. All waterers come with high-pressure valves but history has shown that water pressure should be kept below 60 psi to reduce wear and tear on the valve system and reduce the possibility of leaks. For this reason, a pressure regulator may be needed.
In extremely cold weather, it is essential to keep an ample number of head per waterer to keep water flowing and reduce the chance of freezing. If this is not possible, electric heaters are available. Conversely, heated electric open-trough tanks are also available at many Co-ops.
Many cost-share programs are available to offset the expense of adding this equipment to your operation and some have specific requirements for installation. Be sure to check with the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) for information specific to each agency’s programs. Your local University of Tennessee Extension offices can provide guidance on different livestock watering systems. They offer publications and advice on selecting the best system for your operation based on factors such as site layout, water source, and cost.
Proper installation is key to ensuring that the waterers work as they were designed. Here are some guidelines for installation:
For help with waterers and how they might work on your operation, visit with the professionals at your local Co-op.
First and foremost, remember to shut off the valve at the waterer before beginning the installation. Water Supply Line A minimum 3/4" diameter horizontal and vertical water supply line is necessary; a 1-inch diameter line is recommended. Bury the horizontal water supply line one foot below the normal frost line depth. This will ensure your animals are getting warmer water in the winter and cooler water during the summer. A shut-off valve may be installed under the fountain, or in the water line leading to the fountain, for easier servicing. Thermal Tubes For optimum water supply line protection, use thermal tubes to maintain temperature in the water line. Tubes are available in different lengths and diameters to maintain proper temperature. You should center the vertical water supply line in the tubes. Do not add insulation inside the tubes as it provides a path for frost. The tubes should reach at least one foot below the normal frost line for effective protection.
Concrete Platform Pour a concrete mounting platform that provides a 4- to 6-inch thick step that is 18 inches around the perimeter of the unit. An additional concrete extension all around and sloping away from the unit may be poured for improved footing and to aid in proper drainage. The platform must be level for the best operation of the fountain. For larger operations, we recommend making the concrete pad large enough for the drinking animal to stand on completely. Anchor Locations Fasten fountain to the concrete mounting platform with stainless-steel anchor bolts using all anchor locations on the fountain. Use the actual fountain being installed as the template for anchor bolt location.
Installation of frost-free waterers can lead to improvements in livestock health, pasture management, and overall profitability.
For help with waterers and how they might work on your operation, visit with the professionals at your local Co-op.