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Keeping horses hydrated can be a real challenge, especially if you’re juggling a busy schedule. I remember one summer when I was constantly running back and forth with buckets, feeling like all I did was haul water. Automatic horse waterers can be a game-changer. They ensure your horses always have access to fresh water, saving you time and worry. These devices range from simple float valve systems to more advanced, heated models for winter use. This review will help you find the best automatic waterer to fit your needs and budget.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Best Overall: Ritchie WaterMatic 150 – Durable, energy-efficient, and suitable for multiple horses.
- Best for Cold Weather: Farm Innovators Model P-60 Heated Pet Bowl – Prevents freezing in winter, ideal for single horses.
- Best Budget Option: Little Giant Automatic Animal Waterer – Simple, reliable, and affordable.
- Best for Pasture: Bar Bar A 50 Gallon Horse Drinker – Large capacity, durable construction, and suitable for multiple horses in a pasture setting.
- Best for Stalls: Nelson Automatic Horse Waterer Model 730 – Hygienic, easy to clean, and designed for individual stalls.
Top 5 Best Automatic Horse Waterer Reviews
1. Ritchie WaterMatic 150
The Ritchie WaterMatic 150 is a robust and energy-efficient automatic waterer designed for farms with multiple horses. It’s known for its durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, making it a reliable choice for year-round use. The WaterMatic 150 keeps water at a consistent temperature, preventing freezing in winter and keeping it cool in summer.
Pros:
- ✅ Energy-efficient design saves on electricity costs.
- ✅ Durable construction withstands harsh weather.
- ✅ Keeps water at a consistent temperature.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher initial cost compared to other models.
- ❌ Requires professional installation.
- ❌ May be overkill for a single horse.
Verdict: The Ritchie WaterMatic 150 is an excellent investment for farms with multiple horses, offering durability and energy efficiency. It’s ideal if you need a reliable, year-round watering solution.
2. Farm Innovators Model P-60 Heated Pet Bowl
The Farm Innovators Model P-60 is a heated pet bowl that’s also great for horses, especially in cold climates. It’s designed to prevent water from freezing, ensuring your horse always has access to fresh, unfrozen water. I used a similar model for my pony one winter, and it was a lifesaver.
Pros:
- ✅ Prevents water from freezing in winter.
- ✅ Thermostatically controlled for energy efficiency.
- ✅ Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons:
- ❌ Only suitable for one or two horses.
- ❌ Requires access to electricity.
- ❌ May not be durable enough for rough use.
Verdict: The Farm Innovators Model P-60 is a great option for horse owners in cold climates who need a reliable way to keep water from freezing. It’s best for single horses or small groups.
3. Little Giant Automatic Animal Waterer
The Little Giant Automatic Animal Waterer is a simple and affordable option for horse owners looking for a basic automatic watering solution. It uses a float valve to maintain a constant water level, ensuring your horse always has access to water. It’s a no-frills design that gets the job done.
Pros:
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Simple and reliable design.
- ✅ Easy to install and maintain.
Cons:
- ❌ Not suitable for freezing temperatures.
- ❌ Less durable than higher-end models.
- ❌ May require occasional adjustments to the float valve.
Verdict: The Little Giant Automatic Animal Waterer is a good choice for horse owners on a budget who need a basic, reliable watering solution. It’s best for mild climates where freezing is not a concern.
4. Bar Bar A 50 Gallon Horse Drinker
The Bar Bar A 50 Gallon Horse Drinker is designed for pasture use, providing a large capacity water supply for multiple horses. Its robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The large capacity means less frequent refills, making it a convenient option for busy horse owners.
Pros:
- ✅ Large 50-gallon capacity.
- ✅ Durable construction for pasture use.
- ✅ Suitable for multiple horses.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to move when full.
- ❌ Requires a level surface for proper operation.
- ❌ May need to be cleaned regularly to prevent algae growth.
Verdict: The Bar Bar A 50 Gallon Horse Drinker is ideal for horse owners who need a large capacity waterer for pasture use. It’s a durable and convenient option for watering multiple horses.
5. Nelson Automatic Horse Waterer Model 730
The Nelson Automatic Horse Waterer Model 730 is designed for individual stalls, offering a hygienic and easy-to-clean watering solution. Its stainless steel construction prevents bacteria growth and ensures the water stays fresh. This model is a popular choice for stables and barns.
Pros:
- ✅ Hygienic stainless steel construction.
- ✅ Easy to clean and maintain.
- ✅ Designed for individual stalls.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point.
- ❌ Requires plumbing installation.
- ❌ Not suitable for pasture use.
Verdict: The Nelson Automatic Horse Waterer Model 730 is an excellent choice for horse owners who prioritize hygiene and ease of cleaning. It’s best for individual stalls and provides a reliable, clean water source.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right automatic horse waterer depends on several factors. Consider these points before making a purchase:
- Climate: If you live in a cold climate, a heated waterer is essential to prevent freezing.
- Number of Horses: Consider the number of horses you need to water. A single horse can use a smaller waterer, while multiple horses require a larger capacity.
- Location: Decide where you’ll be placing the waterer. Pasture waterers need to be durable and weather-resistant, while stall waterers should be easy to clean and maintain.
- Water Source: Ensure you have a reliable water source and proper plumbing connections for the waterer.
- Budget: Automatic waterers range in price from affordable to high-end. Set a budget and choose a waterer that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
- Material: Stainless steel is a hygienic and durable option, while plastic is more affordable.
- Ease of Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential to prevent algae growth and maintain water quality. Choose a waterer that’s easy to clean and maintain.
FAQs
Q: How often should I clean my automatic horse waterer?
A: You should clean your automatic horse waterer at least once a week to prevent algae growth and maintain water quality. More frequent cleaning may be necessary in hot weather.
Q: Can automatic horse waterers freeze?
A: Yes, automatic horse waterers can freeze in cold weather. Consider a heated waterer or a de-icer to prevent freezing.
Q: How do I install an automatic horse waterer?
A: Installation varies depending on the model. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Some models may require professional plumbing installation.
Q: Are automatic horse waterers energy-efficient?
A: Some automatic horse waterers are designed to be energy-efficient. Look for models with thermostats or insulated designs to save on electricity costs.
Q: What size waterer do I need for multiple horses?
A: A general rule is to provide at least 10-12 gallons of water per horse per day. Choose a waterer with a capacity that can accommodate the needs of your horses.
Conclusion
Automatic horse waterers are a convenient and reliable way to ensure your horses always have access to fresh water. Choosing the right waterer depends on your climate, number of horses, and budget. From heated models for winter to large-capacity pasture waterers, there’s an option to fit every need. Hopefully, this review has helped you narrow down your choices and find the perfect automatic waterer for your horses.
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