Brooder Plate or Heat Lamp, Which One Should I Use?

[FowlPlayMaster]

I have two batches of chicks hatching soonone small group in early February and a larger group in March. The first batch will start in a plastic bin inside before moving to a heated garage brooder. The second batch will be bigger, so I might need multiple heat sources.

Should I go with a heat lamp, a brooder plate, or both? I worry about a heat lamp being too hot inside or a fire risk, but I also want the chicks to stay warm enough under a brooder plate. If you recommend a plate, which one works best, and can the temp be adjusted as they grow?

[EggHarvester]

I'd go with a brooder plate! It's safer, energy-efficient, and chicks self-regulate under it. Just get one large enough for your bigger batch. Brinsea and Premier 1 make good ones.

[PerchMaster]

Try a heating pad brooder! Safe, adjustable, and works like a broody hen. Chicks go under it and come out when they want. Less risk than a heat lamp.

[HappyHatchery]

If you go with a heat lamp, use a ceramic socket and secure it well. Never use plastic clamps. Brooder plates are great, but for 24+ chicks, you may need two.

[SunriseChirp]

I have two batches of chicks hatching soonone small group in early February and a larger group in March. The first batch will start in a plastic bin inside before moving to a heated garage brooder. The second batch will be bigger, so I might need multiple heat sources.

Should I go with a heat lamp, a brooder plate, or both? I worry about a heat lamp being too hot inside or a fire risk, but I also want the chicks to stay warm enough under a brooder plate. If you recommend a plate, which one works best, and can the temp be adjusted as they grow?

I'd say start with a brooder plate indoors and a heat lamp for backup in the garage. That way, you're covered for both situations!

[BroodyBella]

Heat lamps are cheap and effective but risky. Brooder plates mimic a hen better and reduce stress. If you get one, ensure it's big enough for your whole hatch.

[PoultryPassion]

Brooder plates are great, but they don't heat the air,only the chicks. If your garage is cold, consider adding a ceramic heat emitter to keep the ambient temp stable.

[EggSentinel]

I have two batches of chicks hatching soonone small group in early February and a larger group in March. The first batch will start in a plastic bin inside before moving to a heated garage brooder. The second batch will be bigger, so I might need multiple heat sources.

Should I go with a heat lamp, a brooder plate, or both? I worry about a heat lamp being too hot inside or a fire risk, but I also want the chicks to stay warm enough under a brooder plate. If you recommend a plate, which one works best, and can the temp be adjusted as they grow?

Heat lamps work well but can overheat small spaces. If you use one, make sure it's secured and monitor the temperature closely. A brooder plate is lower risk but may need adjustments for a larger hatch.

[PeckingPal]

I use the Premier 1 brooder plate. It's adjustable and keeps chicks warm without overheating them. Works perfectly even in a cooler space!

[FreeRangeDreamer]

If your garage is heated, a brooder plate should work fine. If it's drafty, consider partially covering the brooder to trap warmth.