# Broiler House Water Line and Nipple Management ## Key Takeaways - **Nipple height is paramount:** Adjust drinker lines daily for the first two weeks, ensuring nipples are at or slightly above the bird's head height to encourage proper drinking posture (approximately 45-degree head tilt) and prevent wet litter. - **Water pressure and flow rate are age-dependent:** Initiate with 1-2 psi for chicks, gradually increasing to 4-6 psi by market age, and critically, verify flow rates at the farthest nipple (20-40 ml/min for chicks, 80-150 ml/min for market-age broilers) to ensure adequate hydration. - **Proactive water line hygiene is essential:** Thoroughly clean and sanitize water lines between each flock using approved cleaners and sanitizers, followed by extensive flushing, to eliminate biofilm, mineral scale, and bacterial contamination that can impair performance and bird health. - **Water consumption is a critical health indicator:** Monitor daily water intake; a drop of 10% or more within 24 hours signals potential disease, feed issues, or system failure, necessitating immediate investigation and intervention. - **Never interrupt water supply:** Even brief periods without water, particularly in young chicks, can lead to irreversible performance losses, emphasizing the need for robust emergency preparedness and system redundancy. --- Water is the most essential nutrient for broiler chickens, yet water lines and nipple drinkers are often the most neglected equipment in a poultry house. This guide covers the full system: how water lines work, how to set nipple height and pressure correctly, how to maintain the system, and how to troubleshoot the common problems that cost you flock performance. It is written for broiler growers, farm managers, and service technicians who want practical, actionable steps they can apply today. ## At a Glance - **Nipple height matters more than any other adjustment.** Set nipples at or slightly above the bird's head height so chicks and broilers must reach up slightly to drink. - **Water pressure follows bird age and flow rate.** Start at 1 to 2 psi in the first week and increase gradually to 4 to 6 psi by market age, adjusting based on observed bird behavior. - **Check flow rate at the farthest nipple.** Target 20 to 40 ml per minute for chicks and 80 to 150 ml per minute for market-age broilers, depending on line length and bird size. - **Clean water lines between every flock.** Use an approved line cleaner, flush thoroughly, and verify no residue remains before placing chicks. - **Adjust drinker height daily during the first two weeks.** Birds grow quickly and a line that was correct yesterday is too low today. - **Monitor water consumption closely.** A drop in water intake is often the first sign of disease, feed problems, or system failure. - **Never let the water lines run dry.** Even a few hours without water can cause permanent performance loss in young chicks. - **Inspect nipples individually.** A single clogged or leaking nipple can create a wet spot that leads to litter problems and footpad lesions. ## Understanding the Broiler Water System A broiler house water system is simple in concept but requires careful management in practice. The system typically includes a water source, a pressure regulator or proportioner, a main supply line, and multiple drinker lines suspended from the ceiling. Each drinker line has a series of nipples spaced evenly along its length. The nipples are the point where the bird actually drinks. The key components you need to understand are: **The pressure regulator.** This device controls the water pressure inside the drinker lines. Most modern houses use a pressure regulator that can be adjusted manually or with a pressure gauge. The regulator compensates for changes in line pressure so that the nipples deliver a consistent flow rate. **The drinker line.** This is a pipe, usually made of PVC or galvanized steel, that runs the length of the house. It holds the nipples and delivers water to them. The line must be level from end to end for even water distribution. **The nipples.** Each nipple is a small valve that releases water when the bird pecks at it. Nipples come in different styles: some have a metal pin that the bird pushes upward, others have a side-activated trigger. The nipple style affects the flow rate and the ease with which birds can drink. **The height adjustment system.** Drinker lines are suspended from the ceiling by winches or cables. You raise and lower the entire line to match bird height. This is the most important adjustment you will make, and it needs to be done frequently. **The flush system.** Most lines have a drain valve at the end opposite the water inlet. You use this to flush the line with fresh water or cleaning solution. The poultry industry has moved almost entirely to nipple drinkers because they keep water clean and reduce disease transmission compared to open troughs or bell drinkers. But the nipple system only works well if you manage it actively. A bell drinker is forgiving of poor height adjustment. A nipple line is not. ## Why Water Line Management Is Critical Broilers convert feed to meat efficiently only when they have constant access to clean water. Water makes up about 70 percent of a broiler's body weight and plays a role in nearly every physiological process, including digestion, temperature regulation, and nutrient transport. A broiler drinks roughly 1.8 to 2.0 times as much water as it eats feed by weight. If the water system fails, feed intake drops quickly and the birds lose performance that they never fully recover. Research from commercial poultry operations consistently shows that even a brief water outage during the first week can reduce final body weight by 3 to 5 percent. Water system problems are also a leading cause of wet litter. A leaking nipple or an overly high water pressure can cause water to drip onto the litter, creating conditions that lead to footpad dermatitis, breast blisters, and elevated ammonia levels. These issues directly affect bird welfare and processing plant condemnations. The good news is that most water system problems are preventable with regular inspection and simple adjustments. The bad news is that many growers do not check their water systems until something goes wrong. By that time, the flock has already suffered. ## Setting Nipple Height Correctly Nipple height is the single most important adjustment you will make on a broiler water system. The rule is simple: the bird should have to reach up slightly to drink. The angle of the bird's head and neck should be about 45 degrees when it is drinking. For day-old chicks, the nipple height should be at eye level or slightly above. As the birds grow, you raise the line so that the nipples remain at or slightly above the birds' head height. If the nipples are too high, the birds cannot reach them comfortably and water intake drops. If the nipples are too low, the birds will drink from an awkward downward angle and water may spill from their beaks, causing wet litter. ### Step-by-Step Height Adjustment 1. **Start with the line at the correct height for day-old chicks.** The nipples should be about 1 to 2 inches above the litter surface. This allows the chicks to stand comfortably and reach up slightly to peck the nipple. 2. **Adjust daily for the first two weeks.** Broiler chicks grow rapidly. A line that is correct on day one will be too low by day three. Plan to raise the line every day or every other day during the first two weeks. 3. **Observe the birds at the drinker line.** Watch a group of birds drinking. Their heads should be tilted upward at roughly a 45 degree angle. If they are stretching their necks fully vertical to reach the nipple, the line is too high. If they are drinking with their heads level or pointed downward, the line is too low. 4. **Raise the line to keep pace with bird growth.** After two weeks, you can adjust less frequently, but you should still check the height at least twice per week. 5. **Set the line so the birds' backs do not touch the drinker line.** As broilers approach market weight, they are wide and heavy. The drinker line should be high enough that the birds can stand fully upright without the line pressing on their backs. A common mistake is to set the nipple height based on the smallest bird in the house. You should instead set it based on the average bird. The smallest birds will still be able to drink, and the larger birds will not be forced into an uncomfortable position. ### Adjusting for Different Nipple Styles The specific nipple type affects the ideal height. A nipple with a long trigger pin that moves upward requires a slightly different angle than a side-activated nipple. In general, the bird should contact the trigger pin with its beak and push upward or sideways with enough force to open the valve. If you have installed a new type of nipple, watch the birds carefully for the first hour to confirm they are drinking successfully. ## Setting Water Pressure Correctly Water pressure in the drinker line controls the flow rate at each nipple. Too little pressure means the birds cannot get enough water, especially during hot weather or at peak feed intake. Too much pressure causes water to leak from the nipples, wetting the litter and wasting water. The correct pressure depends on the age of the birds, the type of nipple, and the number of birds per nipple. There is no single pressure setting that works for every house. You must adjust based on observation and measurement. ### General Pressure Guidelines These are starting points, not fixed rules: - **Day 0 to 7:** 1 to 2 psi - **Day 7 to 14:** 2 to 3 psi - **Day 14 to 21:** 3 to 4 psi - **Day 21 to market:** 4 to 6 psi These figures assume a standard nipple drinker system with nipples spaced 8 to 10 inches apart. If you have a high-flow nipple system, you may need less pressure. If you have a long drinker line, you may need more pressure to maintain flow at the far end. ### How to Measure Flow Rate Pressure alone does not tell you whether the birds are getting enough water. You need to measure the actual flow rate at the nipples. This is a simple procedure: 1. **Select a nipple at the far end of the drinker line.** This is the point where flow is lowest due to friction loss in the line. 2. **Place a measuring cup or graduated cylinder under the nipple.** 3. **Depress the nipple trigger and hold it open for 15 seconds.** 4. **Measure the water collected and multiply by 4 to get the flow rate per minute.** For day-old chicks, you want a flow rate of about 20 to 40 ml per minute. For market-age broilers, you want 80 to 150 ml per minute. If the flow rate is below these ranges, increase the pressure. If it is above, decrease the pressure. ### Adjusting Pressure Step by Step 1. **Locate the pressure regulator.** It is usually near the water inlet at the front of the house. 2. **Read the current pressure on the gauge.** If your system does not have a gauge, install one. You cannot manage pressure accurately without a gauge. 3. **Turn the adjustment knob or valve to increase or decrease pressure.** Make small changes of 0.5 to 1 psi at a time. 4. **Wait a few minutes for the system to stabilize.** 5. **Measure the flow rate at the farthest nipple again.** 6. **Repeat until the flow rate is within the target range.** ### Observing Bird Behavior The birds are the best indicator of whether the pressure is correct. Watch them at the drinker line during peak activity times, usually early morning and late afternoon. Signs that pressure is too low: - Birds are pecking at the nipples repeatedly without drinking - Birds are standing at the drinker line for long periods - Birds are crowding around the nipples and fighting for position - Water intake is below expected levels for the age of the flock Signs that pressure is too high: - Water is dripping from the nipples when birds are not drinking - Wet spots appear under the drinker lines - Litter becomes caked or sticky under the lines - Birds are avoiding the drinker line because the nipples are too hard to trigger or water is spraying ## Nipple Spacing and Bird Access The number of nipples per bird is a critical factor in water intake. The industry standard is 10 to 12 birds per nipple for broilers. Some high-density systems use up to 15 birds per nipple, but this requires careful pressure management and frequent observation. If you have more than 12 birds per nipple, you may see increased competition at the drinker line. Smaller or less aggressive birds may not get enough water, leading to uneven growth in the flock. Nipple spacing on the line is also important. Standard spacing is 8 to 10 inches. If the nipples are spaced too far apart, the birds have to travel farther to find a drinker, which reduces water intake. If they are spaced too close, the birds may interfere with each other while drinking. ## Water Line Height and Bird Age The relationship between drinker line height and bird age is straightforward but requires regular attention. Here is a practical schedule: **Day 0 to 7:** Set the nipples 1 to 2 inches above the litter. Raise the line every day to keep pace with chick growth. **Week 2:** The birds are growing quickly. Raise the line every 2 to 3 days. The nipples should be at or slightly above the birds' head height. **Week 3 to 4:** Growth is still rapid but slowing. Check the height twice per week. **Week 5 to market:** Check the height once per week. The line should be high enough that the birds can stand fully upright without the line touching their backs. A useful technique is to walk through the house and watch the birds at the drinker line from a distance. If you can see the birds' backs touching the drinker line, it is too low. If the birds are stretching their necks to an extreme angle, it is too high. ## Water Consumption Monitoring Tracking water consumption is one of the most valuable management tools available to a broiler grower. A sudden change in water intake often signals a problem before any other symptom appears. Most modern broiler houses have a water meter that records total consumption. If you do not have a water meter, install one. The cost is small compared to the value of the information it provides. ### Expected Water Consumption Water consumption varies with bird age, body weight, feed intake, house temperature, and health status. As a general guide, broilers drink about: - **Week 1:** 10 to 15 ml per bird per day - **Week 2:** 30 to 40 ml per bird per day - **Week 3:** 60 to 80 ml per bird per day - **Week 4:** 100 to 130 ml per bird per day - **Week 5:** 150 to 180 ml per bird per day - **Week 6:** 200 to 240 ml per bird per day These are rough estimates. Your actual numbers will vary based on your specific conditions. The important thing is to establish a baseline for your house and your flock and then watch for deviations from that baseline. ### What to Watch For **A sudden drop in water consumption** of 10 percent or more over a 24-hour period is a warning sign. Possible causes include: - Water line blockage or nipple failure - Pressure regulator failure - Water source contamination - Disease outbreak - Feed change or feed refusal - Extreme cold weather reducing water intake **A sudden increase in water consumption** can also be a problem. Possible causes include: - Water leak in the system - High house temperature - High salt content in feed or water - Disease conditions that cause increased thirst ### Recordkeeping Keep a daily water consumption record for every flock. Record the total gallons used, the number of birds, the house temperature, and any other relevant observations. This record becomes a valuable reference for future flocks and helps you detect problems early. ## Cleaning and Sanitizing Water Lines Water lines accumulate biofilm, mineral scale, and organic material over time. This buildup can harbor bacteria, reduce water flow, and affect the taste of the water. Birds that do not like the taste of the water will drink less, and reduced water intake leads to reduced feed intake. The standard practice is to clean the water lines between flocks. Some growers also do a mid-flock cleanout, especially during warm weather or when water quality is poor. ### Between-Flock Cleaning Procedure 1. **Remove the birds from the house.** 2. **Drain the water lines completely.** Open the drain valves at the end of each line. 3. **Flush the lines with clean water.** Run fresh water through the lines until the water runs clear. 4. **Fill the lines with a cleaning solution.** Use an approved poultry water line cleaner. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution and contact time. Most products require 30 to 60 minutes of contact time. 5. **Agitate the solution in the lines.** You can do this by opening and closing the drain valves or by using a circulation pump if your system has one. 6. **Drain the cleaning solution completely.** 7. **Flush the lines thoroughly with clean water.** Flush until there is no trace of the cleaning solution. This is critical. Residual cleaner can harm the chicks. 8. **Sanitize the lines.** Fill the lines with a sanitizing solution such as a chlorine-based product or hydrogen peroxide. Allow it to sit for the recommended contact time, then drain and flush again. 9. **Air dry the lines if possible.** Open the drain valves and let the lines dry before placing the next flock. ### Mid-Flock Cleaning If you need to clean the lines during a flock, use a product that is safe for birds. Some growers use a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide or a citric acid-based product. Always check the label to confirm the product is safe for use with birds present. The safest mid-flock approach is to flush the lines with fresh water daily. This simple practice removes sediment and prevents biofilm from building up. A daily flush of 1 to 2 minutes per line is usually sufficient. ## Common Water Line Problems and Solutions ### Clogged Nipples Nipples can become clogged with sediment, mineral scale, or biofilm. A clogged nipple delivers little or no water, and the birds in that section of the house will have reduced water intake. **Signs:** Birds crowding around a particular nipple, birds pecking at a nipple repeatedly without getting water, or a dry nipple when you press the trigger. **Solution:** Remove the clogged nipple and clean it or replace it. To prevent clogs, filter the water entering the house and clean the lines regularly. ### Leaking Nipples A leaking nipple drips water continuously. This creates a wet spot under the nipple and contributes to litter problems. **Signs:** Wet spots under the drinker line, caked litter, increased humidity in the house. **Solution:** Replace the leaking nipple. Check the water pressure, as high pressure can cause nipples to leak. Also check for debris in the nipple that may prevent it from sealing properly. ### Uneven Water Distribution Some nipples deliver more water than others. This can happen when the drinker line is not level, when there is sediment in the line, or when the pressure is too low to push water to the far end of the line. **Signs:** Birds are crowded at one end of the line, water intake varies by section of the house. **Solution:** Check that the drinker line is level from end to end. Flush the line to remove sediment. Increase the pressure if the far end of the line is not getting enough flow. ### Air Locks in the Line Air can become trapped in the drinker line, preventing water from reaching the nipples. This is most common after cleaning or when the line has been drained. **Signs:** No water at the far end of the line, sputtering from nipples, birds unable to get water. **Solution:** Open the drain valve at the far end of the line and let the water run until all air is purged. You may need to do this several times. ### Pressure Regulator Failure The pressure regulator can fail, causing either too much or too little pressure in the line. A faulty regulator is a serious problem because it affects the entire house. **Signs:** Water spraying from nipples, water dripping constantly, or very low flow at all nipples. **Solution:** Replace the regulator. Have a spare regulator on hand so you can make an immediate swap. ### Frozen Lines in Cold Weather In cold climates, water lines can freeze if the house temperature drops or if there is a power outage. Frozen lines are a serious emergency because birds cannot go without water for long. **Signs:** No water flowing, frost on the lines, nipples frozen solid. **Solution:** Prevent freezing by maintaining house temperature, insulating exposed pipes, and having a backup generator. If a line freezes, you can thaw it with a heat lamp or a portable heater, but be careful not to damage the plastic pipe. ## Common Mistakes in Water Line Management **Setting the nipples too low.** This is the most common mistake. It happens because growers do not raise the lines often enough during the first two weeks. The result is that birds drink from an awkward angle, water spills from their beaks, and the litter becomes wet. **Setting the pressure too high.** Some growers believe that more pressure means more water for the birds. In reality, high pressure causes nipples to leak and makes it harder for young chicks to trigger the nipple. Always start with low pressure and increase gradually. **Not measuring flow rate.** Pressure gauges tell you the pressure in the line, not the flow at the nipple. You must measure the actual flow rate to know if the birds are getting enough water. **Ignoring water consumption records.** Water intake is one of the best early indicators of flock health. Growers who do not track water consumption miss early warning signs of disease and system failure. **Cleaning the lines only when there is a visible problem.** By the time you can see biofilm or scale in the lines, the problem is already affecting water quality. Clean between every flock. **Not checking the filter.** If your house has a water filter, it needs regular inspection and replacement. A clogged filter reduces water flow and pressure to the entire house. **Forgetting to flush the lines daily.** A daily flush removes sediment and prevents biofilm from building up. It takes only a few minutes per line. **Using the wrong cleaning product.** Some cleaning products are not safe for poultry water lines. Always use a product that is specifically approved for this purpose and follow the label instructions. ## Decision Thresholds: When to Act Knowing when to take action is as important as knowing what to do. Here are some decision thresholds to guide you: **Flow rate below 20 ml per minute for chicks:** This is an emergency. The chicks cannot get enough water. Increase pressure immediately and check for blockages. **Flow rate below 80 ml per minute for market-age broilers:** This is a serious problem. Increase pressure and check the system. If the flow rate does not improve, investigate for blockages or regulator failure. **Water consumption drops 10 percent or more in 24 hours:** Investigate immediately. Check the water system first, then look for signs of disease. Do not wait to see if the birds recover on their own. **Wet spots under the drinker line:** Find the cause. It could be a leaking nipple, high pressure, or a misadjusted line. Fix the cause before it becomes a litter problem. **More than 2 percent of nipples are leaking or clogged:** This indicates a system-wide problem. Clean the lines, check the pressure, and replace any faulty nipples. **Birds are crowding at the drinker line:** This can indicate insufficient nipple access, low pressure, or a nipple that is not working. Check the number of birds per nipple and the flow rate. ## Monitoring and Recordkeeping Systems A good water management program depends on regular monitoring and accurate records. Here is a practical system you can implement: ### Daily Checks - **Total water consumption:** Read the water meter at the same time each day. Record the total and compare it to the previous day. - **Visual check of the drinker lines:** Walk the house and look for wet spots, leaking nipples, and birds crowding at the drinker line. - **House temperature:** Record the high and low temperature for the day. Temperature affects water consumption. ### Weekly Checks - **Flow rate at the farthest nipple:** Measure the flow rate at the end of each drinker line. Record the values. - **Nipple function:** Press a sample of nipples along each line to confirm they are working properly. - **Line height:** Check that the drinker lines are at the correct height for the age of the birds. - **Water quality:** If you have any concerns about water quality, send a sample to a laboratory for testing. ### Between-Flock Checks - **Clean and sanitize the lines:** Follow the procedure described above. - **Inspect all nipples:** Replace any that are worn, leaking, or clogged. - **Check the pressure regulator:** Confirm it is working properly and replace it if there is any doubt. - **Check the filter:** Replace or clean the filter as needed. - **Flush the lines:** Run fresh water through the lines and confirm the flow is clean and clear. ### Recordkeeping Template Keep a simple log for each flock with the following columns: - Date - Bird age - Total water consumption (gallons) - Water per bird per day (ml) - House temperature (high and low) - Flow rate at farthest nipple (ml per minute) - Nipple line height (inches above litter) - Observations and actions taken This log becomes a valuable reference. Over time, you will learn what is normal for your house and your birds, and you will be able to spot problems earlier. ## When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent Most water system problems are mechanical and can be solved by the grower. However, there are situations where you should seek professional help. **Call a veterinarian if:** - Water consumption drops sharply and you cannot find a mechanical cause - Birds show signs of illness, such as lethargy, ruffled feathers, or reduced feed intake - Birds are dying and you do not know why - You suspect water contamination from bacteria, chemicals, or other sources **Call your extension agent or poultry company service technician if:** - You are unsure how to adjust your specific water system - You need help interpreting water quality test results - You are considering a major system upgrade or change - You have a recurring problem that you cannot solve despite your best efforts **Report to the appropriate authorities if:** - You suspect a reportable disease such as [avian influenza](/knowledge/bacteria/avian-bacteria/avian-influenza-cdc-global-surveillance). Your veterinarian or extension agent can tell you what diseases must be reported in your area. ## Water Quality Considerations Water quality affects bird performance just as much as water quantity. Poor quality water can reduce feed intake, increase disease susceptibility, and even cause mortality. ### Key Water Quality Parameters **Bacteria:** Total bacteria count should be low. Coliform bacteria should be absent. If your water source has high bacteria levels, you may need to treat the water with a sanitizer. **pH:** The ideal pH for poultry water is between 6.0 and 8.0. Water that is too acidic or too alkaline can affect the taste and the effectiveness of some medications and vaccines. **Hardness:** High mineral content, especially calcium and magnesium, can cause scale buildup in the lines and reduce nipple function. **Iron and manganese:** These minerals can stain the lines and promote bacterial growth. They also affect the taste of the water. **Nitrates:** High nitrate levels can be toxic to poultry. The safe level is generally below 10 parts per million. **Salt:** High salt content increases water consumption and can cause wet litter. ### Testing Water Quality Have your water tested at least once per year. Your extension agent can tell you where to send a sample. If you notice a change in water consumption or bird performance, test the water again. A standard water test will check for bacteria, pH, hardness, iron, manganese, nitrates, and salt. Some laboratories also test for specific contaminants such as pesticides or heavy metals. ### Treating Water If your water has quality problems, options include: - **Filtration:** Removes sediment and some minerals - **Chlorination:** Kills bacteria - **Water softeners:** Reduce hardness - **Acidification:** Lowers pH and reduces bacteria - **Reverse osmosis:** Removes most contaminants Talk to your extension agent or a water treatment specialist before installing any treatment system. The wrong treatment can make the problem worse. ## The Relationship Between Water and Feed Water intake and feed intake are closely linked. Broilers drink about 1.8 to 2.0 times as much water as feed by weight. If water intake drops, feed intake drops within hours. This is why water system problems are so damaging to performance. The [feed conversion ratio](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/feed-conversion-ratio-measuring-improving-poultry-efficiency) is directly affected by water availability. Birds that have constant access to clean water convert feed to body weight more efficiently than birds that have to compete for water or that drink from a system with low flow. This relationship is especially important during heat stress. When house temperatures rise above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, birds increase their water consumption by 20 to 50 percent. If the water system cannot deliver enough water during this period, the birds will reduce feed intake, and performance will suffer. ## Managing Water During Hot Weather Hot weather places the highest demand on the water system. Here is what you need to do: 1. **Increase water pressure slightly** to ensure adequate flow at all nipples. 2. **Check flow rates more frequently** during hot periods. 3. **Flush the lines more often** to provide cool water. Water sitting in the lines can become hot in a broiler house. 4. **Monitor water consumption closely.** A drop in water intake during hot weather is a serious warning sign. 5. **Check the water temperature.** Water above 80 degrees Fahrenheit is less palatable to birds. If your water supply is warm, consider insulating the pipes or providing a cooler water source. ## Emergency Procedures for Water Failure A complete water failure is an emergency. Birds cannot survive more than a few hours without water, especially in hot weather. Here is an emergency plan: 1. **Check the obvious first.** Is the main water valve open? Is the pressure regulator working? Is there a break in the line? 2. **If the problem is in the house,** isolate the affected section and provide water from an alternative source, such as a portable drinker or a hose. 3. **If the problem is the water supply,** contact your water provider immediately. Have a backup supply of water on hand, such as a storage tank or a well. 4. **If you have a backup generator,** make sure it is working. A power outage can cause water pumps to stop, cutting off the water supply. 5. **In extreme cases,** you may need to place chicks on a temporary water system. Keep a supply of portable drinkers and a bulk water tank on hand for emergencies. The key to emergency preparedness is having a plan before the emergency happens. Know where your water shutoff valves are, know how to bypass the pressure regulator, and have the phone numbers of your water provider and equipment supplier posted in the house. ## Frequently Asked Questions **How often should I raise the drinker lines during the first week?** Raise the lines every day during the first week, and every other day during the second week. Chicks grow rapidly, and a line that is correct in the morning may be too low by the evening. After two weeks, you can adjust twice per week, then once per week as the birds approach market age. **What is the correct water pressure for day-old chicks?** Start at 1 to 2 psi for day-old chicks. This low pressure makes it easy for the chicks to trigger the nipples and prevents water from leaking onto the litter. Increase the pressure gradually as the birds grow. By market age, you will likely be at 4 to 6 psi, but always confirm with a flow rate measurement. **How many birds should be per nipple?** The industry standard is 10 to 12 birds per nipple. Some systems can handle up to 15 birds per nipple, but this requires careful management and may lead to competition at the drinker line. If you see birds fighting for access to the nipples, you may need to reduce the number of birds per nipple. **My nipples are leaking and creating wet spots under the line. What should I do?** First, check the water pressure. High pressure is the most common cause of leaking nipples. Reduce the pressure and see if the leaking stops. If the nipples still leak, they may be worn or contain debris. Clean or replace the leaking nipples. Check the entire line for other leaks while you are at it. **How do I know if my water pressure is too low?** Measure the flow rate at the farthest nipple. For chicks, you want at least 20 ml per minute. For market-age broilers, you want at least 80 ml per minute. If the flow rate is below these levels, increase the pressure. Also watch the birds. If they are pecking at the nipples repeatedly without drinking, the pressure is likely too low. **How often should I clean the water lines?** Clean the water lines between every flock. This is not optional. Biofilm and scale build up quickly and can harbor bacteria that affect bird health. Some growers also do a mid-flock flush with clean water every day. This daily flush takes only a few minutes and helps prevent buildup. **Can I use bleach to clean my water lines?** You can use a chlorine-based product, but you must use the correct concentration and follow the label instructions. Do not use household bleach at full strength, as it can damage the lines and leave a residue that is harmful to the birds. Use a product that is specifically approved for poultry water line cleaning and follow the dilution and contact time recommendations. **My water consumption has dropped 15 percent in one day. What should I do?** Investigate immediately. Check the water system first for leaks, blockages, or regulator failure. If the system is working, check the birds for signs of disease. Look at the feed lines to confirm feed is being delivered. Check the house temperature. A drop in water consumption is often the first sign of a problem, and early detection can make a big difference in the outcome. ## Related Farming Guides This section will be populated with related guides on [poultry house management](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/poultry-house-management-ventilation-lighting-and-biosecurity-integration), broiler production systems, and other relevant topics. ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Poultry Farm Fencing: Materials, Design, and Predator Exclusion](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/poultry-farm-fencing-materials-design-predator-exclusion) * [Broiler House Wind Speed and Airflow Measurement](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/broiler-house-wind-speed-airflow-measurement) * [Broiler House Heating Systems: Types and Efficiency](/knowledge/animal-farming/poultry/broiler-house-heating-systems-types-efficiency) ## References - [FAO Poultry Production](https://www.fao.org/poultry-production-products/en/) - [USDA APHIS Poultry Health](https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian) - [WOAH Avian Influenza](https://www.woah.org/en/disease/avian-influenza/) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/) - [WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health)](https://www.woah.org/en/home/) > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.