As temperatures reach their lowest this winter, it is imperative to keep your horses hydrated even when water troughs threaten to freeze over. If you don’t have access to nearby electricals or do not have a heated system, it can be difficult to keep your horse’s water from icing.
There are a few methods that can help avoid this from happening.
How to Insulate Water Trough For Horses
Creating insulating environments in these weather conditions can ensure that the interior of the trough retains warmth and the cold stays out. One way of achieving this is by building a plywood box, that you then line with insulation and place your trough inside. There is the added option to create a lid on top of the trough that can also be covered with insulation. This can then be removed or opened for the horses to drink.
Other ways to create insulation are by using Styrofoam board or foil that can be wrapped around the outside of the trough to keep warmth in.
Similarly, burying your trough in a shallow hole in the ground can create the same sort of insulation. However, in the middle of winter, when the ground has begun to freeze over, you do not want to be trying to break ground. Instead try surrounding the trough with bales of straw or hay, so the sides are protected, and the warmth is more likely to stay trapped. This will keep the water bale insulated without the need for added materials.
Other Methods to Prevent Water Trough Freezing
Alternatively, there are methods other than insulation to avoid having to constantly break ice. Floating an object such as a football, or similar, can keep the surface from freezing, as the constant movement of the ball means ice is less likely to form. While this method is not as effective as insulation, it can be a quick fix if you are desperate for a solution in this weather.
Another approach would be to use bigger troughs. The larger the trough, the longer the water will take to freeze over, and your horses can therefore continue drinking.
If the ice does form on the surface, it will benefit you to remove the ice chunks rather than leaving them in the water. When you remove them, the water will remain thawed for longer. Then continue to refill the trough with water that is above freezing temperature.
Hopefully this guide on how to insulate water trough for horses will come in handy this winter season. As everything freezes over, these tips should help to prevent endless ice breaking, and ensure your horses can stay hydrated throughout the colder months.
If you’re looking to keep your horses comfortable and safe, Norton’s Fencing provides horse shelters that are designed for functionality and to keep your animals happy and healthy. Plus, we can also install water troughs with a surrounding structure for protection and stability.
We are now the UK partner for a new water trough call Drinking Post. Designed to be maintenance-free all year round so your horse is always hydrated, it doesn’t freeze and it super easy to manoeuvre. Check it out here.
Speak to our team today to find out more about high-quality living solutions for your horses.
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