Generalized Fact Sheet

We all know the importance of water to livestock. This fact sheet is not about the importance of clean water availability. This fact sheet is focused on the generalized questions many ask in regards to the livestock waterers themselves.

How is the Waterer Insulated?

SPI has a number of different types of livestock waterers, eg. electric or energy free. Either type of waterer contains an insulated waterer base. The walls of the base portion of the waterer are a strong polyethylene material formed in a double wall configuration. The space between the two walls is filled with an insulated foaming material providing the insulation factor.

How Does a Livestock Waterer Work?

A livestock waterer is based on a concept of the waterer automatically filling with water from a pressurized water line. The waterer is automatically filled when a valve is triggered by the decline of the water level within the waterer. The valve opens to start the refilling and closes when the water reaches the preset water level. When the animals drink from the waterer they are triggering the valve to open to start the refilling process.

So What Keeps the Water at a Certain Level?

This is controlled by a float-operated valve. The water level is adjustable.

What is Needed for Successful Operation of the Waterer?

Location of the waterer is important! Wind and snow protection reduces energy costs (if using electrical unit) and aids with preventing freeze-ups. The location needs to be easy for the animals to use as well.

• There must be a minimum number of animals drinking from the waterer to keep the water moving in order to prevent freeze-ups. This is based on the individual waterer. Animals drinking from the unit triggers the valve to open allowing water exchange.
• Regular maintenance and clean up of the unit needs to occur as the animals mouths through natural dripping cause ice build-up.
• Proper installation of the unit.
• Insulated Earth Tube(s).

Is Proper Installation Important?

• Absolutely!
• A concrete pad for the waterer to be installed on will assist with drainage and prevent a mud hole from forming.
• The base of the waterer must be caulked or weather stripped to the concrete pad to reduce the wind penetration.
• If you are installing an electrical unit make sure it is installed by a qualified electrician. The electrician should install a properly grounded receptacle outlet, acceptable for outdoor use and protected from the rain and snow.
• You need to run a water supply line (buried below the ground freeze line).
• This water supply line will come up to the waterer location through an Insulated Earth Tube. You have the option of also wrapping the water supply line in electrical heat tape.

Why Use an Insulated Earth Tube?

The water supply line passes through an Insulated Earth Tube (or more than one depending on the depth). This tube allows movement of air warmed by geothermal heat around the water supply line to keep it from freezing. The warm air is generated from the ground below the frost line.

Conclusion

We hope we have answered your questions about how an SPI Livestock Waterer works and any generalized questions about the unit. If we can be of further assistance please do not hesitate to contact our customer service representatives at 
1-800-269-6533.