Heated Buckets 101

December 07, 2015 2 min read

Heated Buckets 101As the temperatures cool off, we want to start thinking about preparing for winter. One of the main concerns every winter is having fresh, unfrozen water readily available for horses. Horses cannot eat enough snow to make up for the water they need each day. Horses without access to water are at high risk for impaction colic. The most common way to keep water buckets ice-free are heated water buckets. These buckets are pretty straightforward. Most heated water buckets range from 5 gallons to 16 gallons. The buckets have a heating element built into either the walls of the bucket or the base that keeps water around 42 degrees. Electrically heated water buckets have a cord connected to them at the back or bottom that is about 6 feet long. If the cord is not already shielded it should be covered in plastic PVC or metal pipe so a horse cannot bite into it. Heated water buckets should have a flat back. This helps it lay flat against the wall and keeps the electrical cord from twisting around it. Heated water buckets and agents can be found online or at most local tack shops. They generally range from about $30 to $100 depending on size. There are plenty of options out there so make sure you do your homework before purchasing! One of the best and most popular heated water buckets out on the market right now are Farm Innovators Heated Flat Back 5 Gallon Bucket. These buckets are thermostatically controlled and will only operate when necessary, which saves you money! They can also be found around $30. Another popular heating agent is called the Blue Performance Once Insulated Bucket Holder. These are not actually buckets; they are bucket holders (hence the name). They are simple and effective insulated bucket holders. These bucket holders are around $100 but they are practically indestructible. When purchasing a heated bucket or a heating agent, check around for the best deals. Keep in mind that these buckets are practically necessary in order to get through a cold winter. Happy shopping! For more information on heated water buckets, CLICK HERE


Also in Blog

Edema in Horses: Causes + Treatment
Edema in Horses: Causes + Treatment

March 31, 2023 3 min read

Edema in horses is the accumulation of fluid somewhere in their bodies, most commonly in their legs (commonly known as “stocking up”) or in their lower abdomen. Edema is different than inflammation and, in rare cases, can become malignant and even fatal. Read on to learn about common forms of edema in horses and what you can do to help.
Natural Wound Care for Dogs with Essential Oils
Natural Wound Care for Dogs with Essential Oils

March 23, 2023 2 min read

Essential oils are an excellent natural home remedy for wounds or your dog’s irritated skin. However, not all essential oils are safe to use around or on dogs. Make sure you know what is helpful and harmful before using any essential oils on your dog.
What is a Normal Heart Rate for a Horse?
What is a Normal Heart Rate for a Horse?

March 16, 2023 2 min read

Hearts are an amazing thing in all animals. A constantly working muscle, the heart, pumps blood throughout the body to sustain life. The horse’s heart is a well-oiled machine—the heart’s efficiency results in a super athlete.