Question about temporary light in the coop

[Rockergirl]

During the cold spell we had the past few weeks, we added a heat lamp (very safely) to the coop. I know it's not the best idea but we had to because we were worried about one of our chickens after one very cold night - the next day she was still in a corner all day almost frozen (Live NC, not used to this type of cold). Anyway - the result was that the red light tricked them back into laying. I don't want them to lay, I want them to rest until the natural season. Cold spell finally over and I want to remove the heat/light but I'm really worried I'm going to cause havoc on their egg system just suddenly turning out the light. We probably have about 5-6 weeks left until daylight moves them back into natural production. If I remove the heat lamp/light now am I playing too much yo-yo with their system when egg laying season isn't too far away. Suggestion? Thoughts? I feel bad that they are laying right now....Would you cut the light out or ride it out since I'm already in this position with them?

 

[Kiki]

How old are your birds?

 

[Rockergirl]

How old are your birds?

I have 3 that are almost 2 years old and 3 that are almost 4 years old

 

[Kiki]

I'd turn the light off.

 

[Loving my girls]

Yeah I agree, just turn it off.
Like you I préfère the natural process of egg laying rather than using a light.
I’ve found my heavy layers seem to die earlier than my lighter layers. I guess they simply wear out. Poor loves. I had a Kaki that laid everyday, virtually, for over three years and now she is spent. A vorwerk that I got at the same time who only laid once or twice a week is still running about with the others. This has happened so many times.