Damp litter beneath a drinking line is often the first sign of a leak. If it persists, it can form compacted patches, give off an unpleasant smell and soil the poultry’s feet. Regular inspection makes it possible to spot the problem early and maintain a drier environment in the poultry house.
Spot the signs during your daily checks
Walk along the drinker lines every day, preferably observing the floor as well. Look for darker areas, clumps of stuck litter and small puddles. Carefully touch the litter: a damp surface may conceal a waterlogged area underneath.
Then check each drinker. A drop that reforms without a bird touching it, a continuous flow or traces of limescale around the nozzle may indicate a leak. Also check the connectors, pipes and ends of the line. If several drinkers are leaking at the same time, the pressure or overall setting should be checked.
Do not always mistake splashing for a leak. Birds playing with the water or a line positioned too low can splash water onto the litter. Observe the poultry’s behaviour and the height of the drinkers to understand the cause of the dampness.
Repair without interrupting watering
Before carrying out any work, follow the equipment instructions and shut off the supply to the relevant line if necessary. Check that the connectors are properly fitted and that the pipes are neither split nor kinked. A worn or damaged drinker must be replaced with a part suitable for the system, in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. Avoid forcing the components: this could make the leak worse.
After the work, put the line back into service and check each repaired point. Also check that the poultry can reach the water easily. Do not leave a setting intended to stop the dripping that makes watering difficult for the flock.
Remove the waterlogged litter and replace it with dry litter. Air the poultry house when conditions allow, without creating a draught over the birds. Then monitor the area: if it becomes damp again, look for another cause or contact a technician.
In Côte d'Ivoire, make a habit of including the drinkers and litter in your daily checks. Careful inspection, appropriate repairs and a check after the work will help you act before the dampness spreads through the poultry house.
--- *Source: NEXTEKCI — In-house expertise — summary and analysis by NEXTEKCI.*