Non-potable water for chickens?

[lifespassion]

We built a new barn/garage and used a non-potable type pipe to get from the well to the garage. I know that it is not safe for human consumption, but can I use it for the chickens? We had to run it a long distance and the potable piping was very expensive. Since we don't drink the water out there, it was not an issue, but is it safe for chickens? Thanks!

 

[Gramma G]

I am fairly new to chicken raising, but I would not do this. I use non-potable water (from a rain barrel) that my DH made, for cleaning in and around the coop. But for drinking, I will continue to lug water from a clean POTABLE source, until we can afford to run a line to the coop. Just my two cents worth. But of luck to you.

 

[poltroon]

People will have different opinions about this. Many people water animals from non-potable sources with no apparent ill effects. Animals who are eating off the ground and living out and about will have more defenses against various nasties.

You might consider testing your water, if you're concerned. For example, if it was full of giardia or e. coli, you might think twice about using it... not just for watering the chickens but in all the ways you might be using it, like aerosoling it all over your leafy greens.

 

[lynnemabry]

We live on rucked in water right now so my flock has been using water from our rain collection tank all summer (+500 gallons) and have no ill effects. My dogs and cat prefer this water too. Too them I think it must be flavored.

 

[woodmort]

We have a grey water outlet from the washing machine and kitchen sink that empties right below the chicken yard, been there for 20 years and the chickens have been drinking out of it for that length of time. Haven't had a problem.

 

[Liamm_1]

Quote:
are you referring to the purple pipe labeled 'non potable' as opposed to the white pipe?
If so, the only difference is, there is a purple dye for marking purposes, as purple pipe is easily identifiable and internationally known as a non potable water source.
The piping does not effect the quality of the water any differently.
You will want to test your well water of course, if your animals are drinking it.
Perhaps a filtration system will treat water for consumption, this I don't know about.