Lixit waterer valves--FYI

[MOgal]

When we first installed Lixit valves (the stainless steel type with a bite guard sold for hogs), they came packaged with an extra domed orifice with a smaller hole than the one installed in the Lixit. I had forgotten about this. Fast forward about 30 years and we bought some from a display on the farm store counter and installed them in our barn on this place. One allowed too much water to enter one dog's mouth to the point of choking her so she stopped using it. In this terrible hot weather, I'm having to carry water just for her to be sure she is adequately hydrated.

Anyway, long story short, I just spoke to a helpful customer service lady who reminded me about the extra orifice and said that the company ships them with a bulk order. She said if we ever buy them in the future, we should be sure to ask for the extra orifice.

DH installed them on risers that he wrapped first with a heat tape according to package directions and insulation protected by aluminum foil. Then he attached an elbow that fits through a 4" PVC pipe. The valve is attached to the elbow. Be sure to adjust the tape and insulation so that both cover the elbow or it will freeze at that point. He protected the electrical supply cord with conduit that fits through a PVC cap which is screwed onto the 4" PVC pipe. All this makes it impervious to heat and cold as well as the goats. It saves me many steps across icy ground in the winter and provides fresh clean water winter and summer to the animals. Even our LGDs will use them--except for the valve that needs the smaller orifice.

Sorry, no pictures.