Having the right feeders is crucial for raising healthy and happy chickens. Store-bought feeders can be expensive and often need more durability. That’s where PVC chicken feeders come in handy.
But how to make a PVC chicken feeder? You can create custom-sized feeders with a few simple tools and some basic DIY skills. Start by gathering materials, and cutting and connecting pipes. Now, drill holes in the reservoir for controlled feed flow. End up by attaching the feeder to the coop wall using brackets or straps.
Let me guide you through making your own PVC chicken feeders. From gathering the materials to assembling and mounting, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
6 Reasons Why You Should Have A DIY PVC Chicken Feeder
Tired of refilling feeders constantly and battling wasted feed? Make a PVC feeder and it’ll be worth it! Let me tell you why.
- Cost-Effective: PVC pipes and fittings are very inexpensive compared to pre-made chicken feeders. Making your own feeder from PVC can save you a significant amount of money.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: PVC is a tough, weatherproof material that can withstand the elements and rough handling of chickens. A well-made PVC feeder can last for many years.
- Easy to Clean: The smooth, non-porous surface of PVC makes it easy to keep the feeder clean and sanitary. A simple scrub with a brush and some vinegar solution is usually all it takes.
- Customizable Size: You can easily adjust the size of your PVC feeder to accommodate different numbers of chickens. How? You can cut the pipes to the desired lengths.
- Prevents Feed Wastage: PVC feeders keep the feed contained. It also prevents chickens from kicking it out onto the ground, minimizing waste.
- Protects from Pests and Moisture: Properly designed PVC feeders can keep rodents, insects, and moisture away from the chicken feed. It ensures a dry and pest-free area.
How to Make PVC Chicken Feeder DIY? 11 Step-by-step Guide
Let’s assume we are making a feeder for around 6-8 standard-size chickens. We will use 2-inch diameter PVC pipes which is a common size for this type of project.
#Step 1
Gather all the required materials. To make the DIY chicken feeder, you’ll need –
- A 5-foot length of 2-inch PVC pipe
- Four 2-inch PVC end caps
- Two 2-inch PVC elbow joints
- PVC primer and cement
- A hacksaw
- Drill
- Sandpaper
- Pencil, and
- Measuring tape.
#Step 2
Measure and cut the PVC pipe pieces needed. For the feeder base, cut two 18-inch sections from the 5-foot pipe. For the feed trough, cut a 24-inch section.
#Step 3
Assemble the base by applying primer and cement at the joints. Attach an end cap to one end of each 18-inch pipe section. Then join these two sections using an elbow joint to form a U-shaped base.
#Step 4
For the feed trough, attach the two remaining end caps to the 24-inch pipe section. Allow these joints to cure completely.
#Step 5
Once cured, use the drill to make 1/2-inch holes every 2-3 inches along the top half of the 24-inch feed trough pipe. These holes allow the feed to dispense.
#Step 6
Optionally, drill a few small 1/4-inch holes at the bottom of the trough for drainage if desired.
#Step 7
Apply primer and cement to the open ends of the base pipes. Then insert and attach the feed trough pipe section into the open ends of the base to complete the feeder assembly. Done!
#Step 8
Once set, use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges for safety. The feeder can now be mounted by hanging, using legs, or placing on a sturdy surface. Secure the pipe using the metal strap at intervals of your choosing.
#Step 9
To use, unscrew an end cap and fill the feed trough with your desired chicken feed using a scoop or cup. Replace the end cap securely.
#Step 10
Before screwing anything in, lift the feeder as high as you can. Use the bottom metal strap as a guide to drill a hole in the pipe. Put a screw through the strap and into the pipe using this hole. This keeps the feeder up high while you clean the coop.
When you lower it for the chicks, keep the screw in place to stop the feed from falling out. Rubber washer screws are the best for this. Also, be sure you move the feeder pipes into position and screw them to the metal straps.
#Step 11
For cleaning, periodically unscrew the end caps and flush out any debris or residue with a hose. Scrub thoroughly with a brush and vinegar solution as needed.
7 Tips for Using PVC Chicken Feeders
Congratulations on making the PVC feeder. But do you know how to use it properly? If not, then the following tips are for you!
- Pick the Right Size: Make sure your feeder fits your flock. Each chicken needs about 10-12 inches of space.
- Adjust Height as Chickens Grow: As your chickens grow, move the feeder up so it’s easy for them to reach. You can add more PVC pipes to lift it higher.
- Keep Pests Away: Stop mice and rats from stealing chicken food by putting metal screens around the feeder’s legs.
- Stop Wasting Food: Put your feeder on a flat surface or hang it up. This keeps chickens from spilling food on the ground.
- Protect from Bad Weather: Keep rain and snow out of the feeder by adding a roof over it.
- Use Safe Sealants: When putting your feeder together, use safe sealants to keep it clean and healthy for your chickens.
- Clean Regularly: Don’t forget to clean your feeder often. Get rid of old food and scrub it with vinegar to keep your chickens happy and healthy.
Note: Suppose, if you have two bantam chickens, set up the feeder to match their height. After figuring out the right height, drill two holes in the pipe using the strap holes as a guide.
Want to learn more about building PVC feeders for chickens? Here’s a video to help you out!
PVC Chicken Feeder problems? Here’s What to Check to Fix!
Sometimes, some issues with your PVC chicken feeder come in. Here’s what to look for and how to fix common problems:
Leaks or Cracks
Check for small cracks, especially around the joints where pipes meet. If found, take those parts apart and put in new glue to seal the cracks. For big cracks, you may need to replace that section of pipe.
Clogs or Blockages
The feed can get stuck and block the holes where it comes out. Use a wire or stick to poke out any clogs. Take the feeder apart and rinse with water to clear the blockages. Keep the feed dry and add a bigger pipe on top for easier flow.
Pests Like Rats or Bugs
Rats, mice, and insects can get into the feeder and make the feed dirty. Use metal mesh around the base to stop pests from entering. Seal any openings pests could get through. Clean the feeder often to keep pests away.
Wobbly or Uneven Base
If the feeder is shaky or leaning to one side, the base needs fixing. Add extra pipes or supports to make the base stronger. Make sure the feeder is level and sitting evenly on the ground.
Chickens Not Using Feeder
If your chickens don’t want to use the new feeder, it may be in the wrong place or too high/low. Move the feeder to a spot they are used to. Hang treats nearby at first to get them interested.
Smaller Chickens Can’t Reach
In mixed flocks, big chickens may block smaller ones from the feed holes. Add extra lower holes or a separate lower trough for small chickens.
10 PVC Feeders for Chicken Ideas for You!
So, you made a PVC feeder for your backyard chickens, right? Don’t you think you can try another way? Here’s a list of PVC chicken feeder ideas you can try to make –
- Simple Tube Feeder: Straight PVC pipe with holes drilled along the top. Sealed with end caps on both ends.
- Trough Feeder: PVC pipe trough suspended between upright pipes or hung from a frame. Feed is dispensed through holes in the trough.
- Hanging Bucket Feeder: Large PVC end cap or pipe coupling attached to the bottom of a vertically hung PVC pipe. Creates a hanging bucket feeder.
- Double-Sided Feeder: Two parallel PVC pipes with holes facing opposite directions. Allows chickens to feed from both sides.
- Corner Feeder: Three PVC pipes joined at 90-degree angles. Mounted in a corner of the coop or run to maximize space.
- Rain-Proof Feeder: Extra PVC pipes and fittings are used to add an overhanging roof or cover. Protects feed from rain and snow.
- Mobile Feeder: Feeder mounted on a wheeled base using PVC pipes and caster wheels. Provides easy mobility around the yard.
- Chick Feeder: Smaller diameter PVC pipes with smaller holes drilled for chick-sized portions. Ensures accessibility for chicks.
- Hinged Feeder: Incorporates a hinged design using PVC elbows and removable end caps. Allows for easy opening and cleaning.
- Automatic Feeder: Large hopper-style feeder with an internal tube. It automatically refills the trough as feed is consumed.
Special One: You can also make PVC pipe chicken feeders and water systems. It’ll be a two-in-one solution!
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FAQs
Curious to learn more about DIY PVC feeders for poultry? Follow the queries given below!
Q. How many PVC feeders per chicken?
Provide 10-12 inches of feeder space per standard chicken. One 2-foot feeder accommodates around 6-8 regular chickens.
Q. How do you fill a PVC chicken feeder?
Unscrew an end cap and use a scoop to pour in fresh feed. Screw the cap back on tightly to secure the feed.
Q. What is the best chicken feeder?
No definitive “best” feeder – depends on your needs. PVC feeders are affordable, durable, and easily customizable.
Q. Can you use PVC pipe for chicken coop?
Yes, PVC is waterproof and weather-resistant for coop components. Easy to cut, assemble, and customize for nest boxes, roosts, etc.
Q. Is PVC pipe cheaper than wood?
Yes, PVC is generally less expensive to purchase upfront. Durable and moisture-resistant, requiring little maintenance.
Final Word
Building your own PVC chicken feeder isn’t just a DIY project—it’s an investment in your flock’s well-being. With a bit of creativity and some handy tips, you can craft a feeder. And remember, PVC pipes are incredibly versatile. So feel free to get creative with different designs to suit your coop layout and chicken preferences.
So roll up your sleeves, and start the project! Get your low-maintenance feeder that keeps your feathered friends healthy and content.
