DIY Winter Water Hack: Using Jugs to Keep Livestock Troughs Ice-Free

This easy and simple DIY method can help keep your animal's water from freezing as winter creeps up on us.

We have two DIY methods, both with plastic jugs - each work about the same for us.

First method:

Extremely simple...

Materials:

1. Large Jug or Plastic Bottle with tight fitting lid
2. Salt

Instructions:

1. Fill the jug half way with water.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of salt.
3. Secure lid.
4. Place in water trough as a flotation device.

Tip: 

• You may need more than one of these depending on how big your water trough is.

Second method:

A little more strategic...

Materials:

1. Large Jug or Plastic Bottle:
   • Choose a jug or plastic bottle with a tight-fitting lid. The size of the container will depend on the volume of water in your trough.
2. Sharp Knife or Drill:
   • You'll need a tool to create holes in the jug or bottle.
3. Water:
   • Fill the jug or bottle with water.

Steps:

1. Prepare the Jug:
   • Clean the jug thoroughly to ensure there are no contaminants that could harm the livestock.
2. Make Holes in the Jug:
   • Use a sharp knife or a drill to make several small holes in the bottom of the jug. These holes will allow water to slowly leak out.
3. Fill the Jug with Water:
   • Fill the jug with water, leaving some space at the top to account for expansion as the water freezes.
4. Secure the Lid:
   • Secure the lid tightly on the jug to prevent debris from getting inside and to control the rate of water release.
5. Place the Jug in the Trough:
   • Submerge the jug in the water trough, ensuring that the holes are facing downward. You may need to weigh down the jug with rocks or other heavy objects to keep it submerged.
6. Monitor Water Level:
   • Monitor the water level in the trough regularly. As the jug releases water through the holes, it will create a constant flow that can help prevent freezing.

Tips:

• Adjust the number and size of holes based on the desired flow rate and the severity of freezing temperatures.
• Check the trough and jug regularly to ensure they remain clean and functional.
• If temperatures are extremely low, consider using multiple jugs or increasing the number of holes to maintain water flow.
• Honestly, any floatation device will work - anything like a tennis ball to a basketball to a piece of foam.

This simple jug method utilizes the principle of continuous water movement to prevent freezing. It's important to adapt the method based on the specific conditions and needs of your livestock. If temperatures are extremely harsh, additional measures like insulation or commercial heating devices may be necessary.

Click here for 14 other ways for keeping your animal's water from freezing in the winter.

Did you make this? Let us know in the comments below!