Your use of the Valley Vet Supply website is governed by our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Please read them carefully before browsing or using the site. If you are using a screen reader and are having problems using this website, please call 800-370-4838 for assistance.
Ensure your animals have access to liquid water, even in the coldest months with a reliable water trough heater. Browse our selection today to find stock tank heaters designed to prevent ice buildup in stalls and pastures. From horse-specific insulated bucket holders to heavy-duty de-icers for cattle troughs, we provide the solutions you need to keep water flowing for all your livestock.
Why Are Water Trough Heaters Important?
When temperatures drop, maintaining access to liquid water is critical for your animals. A high-quality water heater:
Prevents Freezing: Keeps water liquid even in extreme sub-zero temperatures.
Improves Hydration: Allows horses and cattle to drink more, helping them stay hydrated even in the coldest temperatures.
Saves Labor: Eliminates the daily chore of hauling water or having to break surface ice.
Types of Water Trough Heaters
Here are the most common ways to keep your water ice-free:
Submersible Heaters: These sit at the bottom of the tank, keeping the heating element away from animals.
Floating Heaters: These stay on the water's surface to keep a drinking hole open; they are great for deep tanks but should be used with a guard in plastic troughs.
Drain Plug Heaters: These thread directly into the tank's existing drain hole, keeping the cord outside the tank for maximum safety and a clean look.
Stock Tank De-Icers: These high-performance units (often convertible between floating and submersible) are built to handle the most extreme sub-zero temperatures.
How to Choose the Right Water Trough Heater
To find the right water tank heater for your environment, it’s important you match the unit to your specific needs. Consider these factors to ensure your setup is efficient and safe:
Tank Size: Determine how much water your tank holds to ensure the heater has enough power.
Wattage: Use 1000–1500W for large outdoor tanks and lower wattages for barn buckets.
Material Compatibility: Check for "plastic safe" labels or use a cage guard to keep heating elements from melting poly or rubber tanks.
Safety Features: Look for anti-chew cord wraps for horses and use a Thermo Cube to ensure power only runs when it's freezing.
Whether you’re getting ready for winter or just upgrading your stable, Valley Vet is your one-stop shop for everything.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How many watts do I need for my tank?
A: Usually, 1,000 watts handles 100–150 gallons. In extreme sub-zero areas or for larger troughs, you’ll want 1,500 watts or multiple units.
Q: Can heaters run 24/7?
A: Many heaters actually use built-in thermostats, so they only use power when the water temperature drops near freezing.
