The 10 Best Heated Water Troughs and Storage Tank Heaters (2023)

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In winter, frozen water troughs are a real problem. Luckily, there are some great water trough heaters for horses and livestock that will save you the hassle of breaking ice.

Water trough heaters are heaters designed to safely prevent ice build-up on troughs and buckets. It is important that water troughs do not freeze as horses and livestock should always have access to fresh water.

There are different types of trough heaters such as floating, submersible, bucket, solar and integrated.

Types of water trough heaters

• Floating heaters:Floating heaters float on top of the water and are safe to use with plastic or poly troughs. You should always connect the deicer to a GFI outlet. Although they are a great option, some curious horses can play with them.
• Tauchheizer:Immersion heaters lie at the bottom of the trough, keeping it out of the way. Most immersion heaters have wire guards so they are safe to work in metal and plastic tanks.
• bucket heater:Bucket heaters are specifically designed for buckets and not full size water troughs.
• Integrated heaters:Integrated heaters are convenient to use as you can easily turn the heater for the trough on and off with a switch. However, you often need a professional to install the plumbing, electricity and concrete.
• Solar heaters:Solar trough heaters use the sun as an energy source, which means you don't have to mess with cords or wires. They can be used with automatic drinkers, manual drinkers, or even tied to your water line.

If you live in a particularly cold climate, a water trough heater can be a lifesaver. Not only does breaking ice on buckets take time, it can also be tricky as you sometimes have to do it multiple times a day.

Here are the best water trough heaters for cattle and horses.

Best water trough heaters

1. Farm Innovators Plug-In-Tankenteiser

This water heater is designed specifically for use with Rubbermaid storage tanks, but can also be used with all plastic troughs. It's thermostatically controlled, so it only runs when needed.

The simple yet effective design is easy to install and can be done in minutes. The device is easily overlooked by cattle and horses because there is no line in the water.

It conveniently fits into the drain plug of potions and allows for easy use. Even 100 gallon tanks are kept ice free with this handy deicer.

Advantages:

• Simple, convenient setup.
• Works with large tanks.
• Cable is out of the way.

Disadvantage:

• The drain plug hole must be at least 1.75 inch or larger.

2.K&H Pet Products Ultimate Storage Tank Deicer

This versatile heater can be used as a floating or submersible deicer depending on your needs. It includes a handy cord clip that prevents cattle from messing with the cord.

With a built in thermostat, this heater will automatically turn on and off when needed. It is safe to use with all storage tanks and is easy to install. A full cage is also included for added protection.

This heater is available in 250, 500, 750, 1,000 and 1,500 watts to meet your individual needs. It has been rigorously tested and certified to ensure your safety as well as the safety of your animals.

Advantages:

• Can be used as a floating or immersion heater.
• Includes built in thermostat, wire clip and full cage.
• Safe to use in all storage tanks and available in many sizes.

Disadvantage:

• The water level must be monitored to avoid possible malfunction of the heater.

3. Farm Innovators Aluminum Convertible Plastic Tank Heater

This handy heater converts from a floating deicer to a submersible deicer by simply removing the float. Not only is it used to prevent ice, but it also works to remove snow.

The unique cast aluminum construction offers best-in-class efficiency and safety, so you can rest assured your horses are safe. With the thermostatically controlled design, it only works when needed. The cord features a durable "anti-chew" design that keeps curious cattle at bay.

This de-icer works with all types of plastic tanks. With 1,250 watts, it is able to heat large troughs.

Advantages:

• Works as both a floating and immersion heater.
• Thermostatically controlled, with anti-chew design.
• The cast aluminum design is safe and efficient.

Disadvantage:

• Some users find the cable too short.

4.Farm Innovators 1500W Sinking Tank Deicer, H-429

Even at sub-zero temperatures, this heater prevents the formation of ice. Thanks to the submersible design, it sits at the bottom of the tank, not in the way.

With a thermostatically controlled system, it works automatically when the water temperature reaches 35 degrees or less. It is compatible with all rubber, plastic or metal storage tanks. The 1.50 m cable leaves enough space for the deicer when it is plugged in.

This durable heater works for water troughs between 70-300 gallons. A robust protective cage protects him from curious animals.

Advantages:

• At temperatures below 35 degrees, the thermostat switches on automatically.
• Compatible with metal, rubber and plastic tanks.
• Works with up to 300 gallons of water.

5.Farm Innovators Submersible Tank Deicer

This multi-purpose, submersible de-icer is great for keeping buckets, storage tanks and bird baths free of ice. For the safety of you and your animals, it is constructed of patented cast aluminum for ultimate efficiency.

As it is thermostatically controlled, it is only operated when required. It is safe to use in plastic tanks up to 50 gallons. The simple design is easy to install and keeps curious animals out of the way.

Its robust construction is designed to survive even the harshest winters. This heater is also available in 250 watts.

Advantages:

• Multipurpose diving design.
• The cast aluminum construction is safe and efficient.
• Safe for plastic tanks.

Disadvantage:

• The cable is short.

6. K&H Pet Products Eimerwärmer

This practical immersion heater is ideal for small troughs or buckets. With a durable enamel finish, it's easy to clean and maintain.

It has the ability to keep buckets from freezing even at temperatures as low as -20 degrees. A cable security clip is included to prevent livestock from messing with it. It is thermostatically controlled to only work when needed.

This heater is safe to use on metal and plastic buckets. It is safe to use and easy to install.

Advantages:

• The enamel surface is easy to clean and maintain.
• Safe for plastic and metal buckets and tanks.
• Works in temperatures as low as -20 degrees and comes with a safety clip.

Best Heated Water Troughs

1. Ritchie Automatic Heated Storage Tank Irrigation

This large, low-maintenance trough is ideal for pastures with cattle or horses. With two automatic waterers in the unit, up to 40 horses or cattle can be watered on up to two different pastures.

The heating element is located just below the stainless steel tub, allowing for premium performance. In addition to the heating element, it also has insulation with highly energy-efficient polyurethane foam. The large access panel allows for easy access to the heater components and waterline.

This durable drinker is built to last and plugs straight into your power and water lines. For the safety of your animals, it has rounded edges to eliminate the risk of injury.

Advantages:

• Waters up to 40 horses or cattle.
• Features a heating element just below the trough and includes plumbing.
• Safe, automatic and durable with easy installation.

2. Farm Innovators Heated Bucket

(Video) Principle of buffer tanks

Whether for indoor or outdoor use, this 5 gallon heated bucket is easy to use and convenient. The flat back provides stability when hanging on the wall, which is ideal for barns.

It's thermostatically controlled to only work when needed, turning on at 35 degrees and off at 60 degrees. The unique hideable cable compartment conceals the cable in warm weather, making it suitable for year-round use. With a durable anti-chew protection, the line is safe to use even with playful horses.

Thanks to the leak-proof spout and tabletop measurements, you can easily track the amount of water your horse is drinking. In addition, the heavy-duty bracket has reinforced connections.

Advantages:

• Ideal for indoors and outdoors, no matter what the season.
• The line has a durable anti-chew protection.
• Can be easily hung on the wall.

Disadvantage:

• Will not fit all types of bucket hangers.

3. Brower MK32 Heated drinking trough for horses and cattle

This large heated trough is ideal for pastures with up to 25 horses. Its innovative design makes it ideal for use in shared paddocks.

Not only does it have a 500 watt electric heater, but it also has polyurethane foam insulation around the trough. The insulation is also water-repellent and unattractive to rodents. It is free from any formaldehyde or chlorofluorocarbons.

The durable valve will not clog or rust, and the plug deflates in seconds. Its robust design is able to withstand harsh winter conditions.

Advantages:

• Includes heating and also insulation.
• Will not clog or rust.
• Ideal for pastures with up to 25 horses.

Disadvantage:

• Some users have had problems with the shut-off valve over time.

4.Classic Equine Stallbrunnenheizung

This automatic waterer is quick to refill, so you can be sure your horse always has clean, fresh water. It easily mounts in a corner to save space in your horse's stable.

The built-in heating system maintains an ideal water temperature regardless of the weather conditions. Its unique design eliminates standing water, keeping it clean and safe. The stainless steel hardware is durable and the float system is worry-free.

The rounded edge is safe and prevents injuries even for clumsy horses. Its durable design is built to last while minimizing water wastage. State Line Tack also has similar variants that are larger and suitable for cattle herding.

Advantages:

• Fast refilling provides access to fresh, clean water.
• The built-in heating system keeps the water at the optimal temperature.
• Durable, safe and minimizes water wastage.

Disadvantage:

• It is difficult to track the horse's water intake in the stable.

Also read: The 5 Best Heated Water Buckets for Horses

6 ways to keep a water trough from freezing

While water heaters and heated troughs are a great way to keep tanks from freezing in the winter, they're not a practical option for everyone. Fortunately, there are a few other ways to prevent water troughs from forming ice.

1. Place your trough in direct sunlight

Place your trough in a location where it will receive direct sunlight. Placing your trough in a south-facing area increases the amount of sunlight it receives.

While sunlight isn't guaranteed to keep ice out in cold temperatures, it certainly can help. This is a great option if you live in an area that doesn't get much below freezing in winter.

2. Insulate your trough

Insulation is a simple and effective way to prevent ice from forming over water tanks. Wrapping Styrofoam and foil-covered insulation around your trough will help prevent freezing.

Additionally, an even more effective way to prevent ice is to place your trough inside a larger trough and fill the gap with insulation. Alternatively, you can use a plywood box and place your trough inside and fill the gap with insulation.

3. Bury your trough

Although this can be labor intensive, burying your trough will provide protection from ice. The bottom can act as an installation to prevent the water from freezing over.

This option is not convenient for everyone and is best done before the onset of winter. However, if the soil is already too hard, a shallow hole can also be filled with straw.

4. Use a float

Many people swear by floats as an alternative to water heaters. A floating object will float around, moving the water and making ice formation less likely.

A soccer ball or 2 liter soda bottle partially filled with a mixture of water and salt can effectively serve as a float. However, some curious horses will play with floating objects and remove them from the water.

5. Try a constant flow drinker

Another alternative to trough water heaters are constant flow drinkers. They provide a small, constant stream of running water that helps prevent ice formation.

Even a small amount of water acts to break the surface tension. By laying a pipe to carry a spill through an buried perforated PVC pipe, you don't have to worry about spillage.

6. Water trough heater

As you saw above, a water trough heater is probably the best way to keep water in a trough from freezing. However, they are not as practical as other solutions.

Also read our guide tobest drinker for livestock.

frequently asked Questions

Are Water Trough Heaters Safe for Horses?

Water trough warmers are safe for horses and cattle when used properly. However, it is important that you read the instructions carefully and take all safety precautions when using them.

Be sure to plug your heaters into a GFCI (Ground-Fault Circuit Interruptor) outlet. Always make sure the strings are out of the way and your animals are not chewing on them. Check your heaters regularly to make sure they are working properly.

What wattage do you need to heat a trough?

For troughs 50 gallons and under it is recommended to use 250 watts and for troughs 70 gallons and under 500 watts is recommended. Use 1000 watts for 70-100 gallon troughs and 1500 watts for 100-300 gallon troughs.

Wattage measures the amount of electrical flow to the device. The following applies to trough heaters: the higher the wattage, the more efficiently the water is heated. The higher the wattage, the faster your water will heat up.