Need suggestions for Algae in automatic Waterers
Moderators: Roguelet, hpkingjr, WaveMaster
Need suggestions for Algae in automatic Waterers
I put in automatic waterers in my paddocks and love them. My only complaint is that some of them get algae in them. I clean them at least weekly but want to know does anyone have a solution for this. I am afraid to use bleach because the horses drink from them. Any help would be appreciated.
Re: Need suggestions for Algae in automatic Waterers
hi wgc517
When the temperature rises, it's likely that algae growth in the waterers will increase too. Growth will also be affected, to varying degrees, based (among other things) on the location of the waterer in relation to sunlight (direct or indirect) or shade.
Cleaning them once a week may (in some cases) be enough, particularly during the cooler/colder weeks/months; but, I would STRONGLY recommend that your waterers be checked daily (for any number of reasons).
You didn't mention what material(s) your waterers are made from.
Through the years, I've seen plastic/aluminum/fiberglass/steel/concrete waterers (used to supply horses) in all-sized pastures. Based on my observations/experience, I would recommend that after using the Clorox (my bleach of choice), rinse-out the waterer(s) of bleach residue, then refill it/them with fresh water. You may choose/need to rinse it/them out more than once, before refilling.
That's my experience, but if you're unsure (what's best for you/your situation), I would suggest that you contact the State Agricultural Extension Office nearest you.
Best to ya,
Respectfully
wgc517 wrote:I put in automatic waterers in my paddocks and love them. My only complaint is that some of them get algae in them.
When the temperature rises, it's likely that algae growth in the waterers will increase too. Growth will also be affected, to varying degrees, based (among other things) on the location of the waterer in relation to sunlight (direct or indirect) or shade.
wgc517 wrote:I clean them at least weekly but want to know does anyone have a solution for this.
Cleaning them once a week may (in some cases) be enough, particularly during the cooler/colder weeks/months; but, I would STRONGLY recommend that your waterers be checked daily (for any number of reasons).
wgc517 wrote:I am afraid to use bleach because the horses drink from them. Any help would be appreciated.
You didn't mention what material(s) your waterers are made from.
Through the years, I've seen plastic/aluminum/fiberglass/steel/concrete waterers (used to supply horses) in all-sized pastures. Based on my observations/experience, I would recommend that after using the Clorox (my bleach of choice), rinse-out the waterer(s) of bleach residue, then refill it/them with fresh water. You may choose/need to rinse it/them out more than once, before refilling.
That's my experience, but if you're unsure (what's best for you/your situation), I would suggest that you contact the State Agricultural Extension Office nearest you.
Best to ya,
Respectfully