OT Need good electric livestock water tank heater

Mn Dave · Jan 3, 2010

I have a 250 gallon water tank that I use to water 32 head of feeder calves. In the past I have used the floating type and they only last so long. The tank is a poly or fiberglas type and I have used the metal ones that lay on the bottom but they don't last either. What do you guys use or what is the best electric style. With the is cold weather I still have to chop the ice. The tank is enclosed with a plywood liner with insulation inside and the top is covered but for about a 3rd for them to drink out of.

sd pete · Jan 3, 2010

I had a propane heater. Ran on low setting except for very cold days. Had the whole thing covered except for a 2" area for drinking. Might of used 2 bottles of gas for the winter.

495man · Jan 3, 2010

Have a "rubbermaid" 100 gallon tank with a drain plug heater (replaces drain bung) Plugs in 120 volt outlet and is plugged in 24/7 basically nov-apr here in Canada) The tank is not insulated but is semi sheltered. Never frozen over.

Maybe your 250 gallon is too big for the heaters you are using?

I replaced the heater for the 1st time last winter, got maybe 3.5 years out of it.

GordoSD · Jan 3, 2010

You can borrow Allan's axe, or you can upgrade the whole shebang. Get a Ritchie Watermatic 150 and all your filling and freezing problems are over. It's designed for 50 head and runs about $250 wholesale. Go larger if you think you might expand the herd. But neat spring I'd install another for the bred cows.

Gordo

JMS/.MN · Jan 3, 2010

Typical Ritchie is plenty for 32 head. Put my last one in with 8 inch heavy wall auger tubing for housing the water line. Reinsulated it with 3-4 inch thick styrofoam instead of the original thin stuff. Now you can get conversion kits to make them like new, with the ball that closes the hole until the cattle push it aside. Can find used Ritchie units for $100. Valve, Tstat, heaters are available for replacement.

Anonymous-0 · Jan 3, 2010

Wouldn't something like this be cheaper and safer to run?

http://go-armynavy.com/index.php/vmchk/outdoor-gear/stoves/u.s.-immersion-heater.html

DJM75 · Jan 4, 2010

maybe try a different brand. I have the floating and sinking heaters you talk about 1500watts and both have been working for 7-8 years now. Bought mine at theisens but you may have a fleet farm up there I believe. DJ

OT Need good electric livestock water tank heater

Mn Dave

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sd pete

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495man

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GordoSD

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JMS/.MN

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Anonymous-0

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DJM75

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