Pig waterer is an important part of pig farming. They provide pigs with a clean and safe source of water to drink. Keeping your waterer clean is very important to the health of your pigs. A dirty waterer can quickly lead to an outbreak of disease on your farm. You can maintain the hygiene of the waterer in the following ways:
1. Regular Cleaning
Regularly clean the waterer with hot water and soap. Be sure to remove any dirt, algae, or other debris build-ups. Algae can be removed by using a chlorine tablet or bleach solution. Be careful not to get the chemical in the pigs’ drinking water. If your waterers are made of plastic, you can also use a vinegar and water solution to clean them. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that will kill any bacteria or algae present in the waterer.
2. Sanitizing
Sanitize the waterer regularly. Sanitization can be done using a sanitizing agent such as chlorine or hydrogen peroxide. Be sure to follow the directions on the sanitizer carefully. Do not allow any of the sanitizer to come into contact with the pigs’ drinking water.
3. Disinfecting
Disinfect the waterer regularly. Disinfection can be done by using a disinfectant such as phenol or quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs). Disinfecting helps to kill any bacteria or viruses that may be present in the waterer. It also helps to prevent the growth of algae and other contaminants. The process can be done using a bucket of disinfectant solution or a pressure washer.
4. Checking the Hoses
Check the hoses regularly for leaks. A leaky hose can contaminate the water in the waterer and lead to an outbreak of disease. Repair or replace any faulty hoses immediately.
Also, check for clogged horses and remove any debris blocking them. Blockage harbours dirt, and it is a good breeding ground for bacteria and other contaminants.
5. Regular Maintenance
Perform regular maintenance on the waterer. It includes checking the water level, cleaning out the debris catcher, and changing the water filter if necessary. Maintenance should be done at least once a month. It will ensure that the waterer runs smoothly and that the water remains clean and safe for pigs to drink.
6. Winterizing
If you live in a cold climate, it is important to winterize the waterer. Winterizing is the process of preparing the waterer for cold weather. It includes draining the water and covering the waterer with an insulating material such as straw or hay. Be sure to remove any ice that may have formed on the inside of the waterer. Also, cover the waterer with a tarp or insulation to keep it from freezing. If the waterer does freeze, thaw it out before using it again.
Maintaining the hygiene of your pig waterer is essential for the health of your pigs. You can keep your waterers clean and sanitary by following these simple tips. This will help to prevent the spread of disease on your farm. It will also ensure that your pigs have a safe and healthy source of water to drink.
