August 4, 2010

Ziggity Systems simplifies drinker line pressure settings

Ziggity Systems has developed a new set of protocols to help producers achieve maximum litter performance under the drinker lines.

One of the leading reasons for wet litter in poultry houses is incorrect pressure settings. Keeping the litter dry in a friable state is necessary for achieving top rated production.

Misunderstandings about the causes of wet litter and lack of clear direction on the best way to manage litter conditions make it difficult to achieve optimum results. Making management of litter conditions easy and understandable is a sign of improved performance.

By using these protocols, producers can avoid the ammonia releases caused by wet litter, as well as a host of other diseases including coccidiosis that can hurt production. Also footpad dermatitis can be reduced. Firstly, this benefits the welfare of the birds. Moreover it makes chicken feet suitable for export to countries like China.

During the drinking process, birds can only retain a certain amount of water in their beaks. If more water discharges from the drinker than what the bird can retain, the oversupply spills onto the litter. The key to achieving the correct pressure settings for the drinking system is to take litter readings.

For the first week of a chick's life, the water pressure must be at an absolute minimum. Ziggity Systems recommends settings as low as one inch (2.5 cm) of column height pressure. If after the first week, the litter under the drinkers is too wet, the pressure must be kept at the absolute minimum until the litter becomes dry under the lines.