Installing a automatic waterers is one of the best investments we made for our boarding facility. It saves time, eliminates the daily chore of hauling water and hoses, and ensures our horses have access to fresh, clean water 24/7 even during harsh Minnesota winters.
However, not every waterer is the same, and before you install one of your own property. proper planning before installation can save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
Here's are some things to consider before you chose:
1. How Many Horses Will Be Using It?
The first question isn't which waterer—it's how many animals need access?
Some waterers are designed for only a few horses, while others can comfortably serve an entire pasture.
Consider:
- Current herd size
- Future expansion plans
- Horse temperament (dominant horses may guard water)
Installing the right size from the beginning helps avoid costly upgrades later.
2. Location Matters
Where you place your waterer can make or break its performance.
Choose a location that:
- Is easily accessible year-round
- Has proper drainage
- Allows equipment access for maintenance
- Doesn't become muddy during wet seasons
- Encourages horses to drink comfortably
Planning your location before trenching can save significant labor costs.
3. Water Supply
Before installation, determine:
- Is your existing water line large enough?
- What is your water pressure?
- How far is the water source?
- Will additional plumbing be required?
Long runs may require larger pipe sizes to maintain proper flow.
4. Frost-Free Installation Is Critical
In northern climates like Minnesota, proper installation below the frost line is essential.
A frost-free installation typically includes:
- Proper trench depth
- Insulated water lines
- Adequate drainage
- Manufacturer-recommended installation practices (I cant stress this one enough!)
Skipping these steps can lead to frozen lines and expensive repairs during winter.
5. Don't Forget Electrical Requirements
Many heated automatic waterers require electricity.
Before installing, determine:
- Distance to electrical service
- Required voltage
- GFCI protection
- Local electrical codes
Planning electrical service early can prevent delays during installation.
6. Drainage Is Often Overlooked
One of the biggest installation mistakes is poor drainage.
Even the best waterer can create mud if excess water has nowhere to go.
Consider:
- Gravel bases
- Drain tile
- Proper grading
- Surface runoff
Good drainage helps keep horses cleaner while extending the life of your installation.
7. Think About Maintenance
Automatic waterers save time—but they still require routine maintenance.
Plan for:
- Easy access for cleaning
- Seasonal inspections
- Float adjustments
- Replacing worn seals or valves
- Annual cleaning
Regular maintenance helps your waterer operate efficiently for years.
8. Choose a Waterer Built for Your Climate
Not every automatic waterer is designed for harsh Midwest winters.
Look for models that offer:
- Reliable freeze protection
- Durable construction
- Readily available replacement parts
- Proven performance in cold climates
Investing in quality equipment upfront often saves money over the life of the product.
9. Consider Future Expansion
You may have four horses today—but what about five years from now?
When planning your installation, think ahead.
Future-proofing your system now can save thousands compared to digging everything up later.
Is an Automatic Waterer Worth It?
For most horse owners, the answer is yes.
The time saved from hauling water every day, combined with consistent access to fresh water for your horses, often makes an automatic waterer one of the best long-term improvements you can make to your property.
Whether you're building a new barn or upgrading an existing setup, careful planning will ensure your system performs reliably for years to come.
Need Help Choosing the Right Waterer?
At Midwestern Ranch, we're horse owners ourselves. We understand the challenges of caring for horses through every season and can help you choose the right watering solution for your property.
Whether you're installing your first automatic waterer or upgrading an existing system, we're here to help you make an informed decision.
Explore our selection of automatic waterers, parts, and installation resources to build a watering system that works for your farm.