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Posted on April 1, 2006 by Joanne Dorin | Posted under Interior Decorating
Proper Use Of Infrared Heat Lamp For Livestock
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The heat rays from the lamps pass through the air but they don't heat the air. When the heat rays reach the animal the energy is absorbed. One of the most common uses of heat lamps is in chick brooders. The chicks can move in and out of the heat of the lamp and seek their own desired amount of heat. There have been many advantageous to the lamps over the past years including cable heat applications and quartz tube heaters but many poultry and livestock producers still prefer the faithful 250 watt lamp. It's easy to operate, requires no special equipment, easy to store, and it costs hardly anything. Studies have shown that using infrared heat lamps saves 1 pigs from each litter. That's because pigs are commonly born during the winter months and the heat lamp prevents the piglet from becoming chilled or freezing to death. The first 24 hours after birth are critical to any newborn animal and pigs are especially sensitive. It's recommended that two 250 watt heat lamps be used. One over the nursing area and the other over the farrowing area. After the first 24 hours you can move one lamp the resting area. You have two choices in infrared lamps - the hard Pyrex glass lamps and the soft glass. The Pyrex style costs more but it is much more resistant to moisture and damage. Soft lamps should only be used in dry locations and where there is no moisture. Both types of lamps have reflectors and both can be used in single our multiple fixtures. The lamps are made either with clear or red glass. Red reduces the light output so it reduces glare. You need to make sure you are handling the lamp correctly to avoid injury or damage. And unless you install it correctly your fire insurance could be void so pay attention. There are three areas of concern - choosing the proper equipment, proper suspension to protect the animals, and proper wiring and electrical installation. Your brooding unit should have a wire or rope by which the unit is suspended. Never use the electrical cord to suspend the lamp. A heavy duty cord should always be attached. It should be at least a No 18 AWG and it should not be longer than 8 feet. Use a keyless porcelain lamp receptacle which is capable of withstanding the heat. The brass ones are not. Install a metal reflective shield to protect your lamp from moisture. You also need a bail so that you can tip a fallen lamp away from the bed. If you are suspending your lamp it should be 30 inches above the bed and 6 inches above the height of the animal when standing. For pigs it needs to be 24 inches and for brooding chicks 18 inches. When using for lamps, calves, and other animals make sure it is 6 inches higher than what the animal would be able to reach. Ensure your wiring is adequate to operate your lamps and then get that infrared heat lamp working. Joanne is an author of Decorz.com. If you're looking for more lighting decor ideas for your home visit http://www.decorz.com. About The Author: |
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