Plasson Bell Drinker: Working Principle, Installation and Maintenance

What Is a Plasson Bell Drinker

A Plasson bell drinker is a type of automatic poultry waterer widely used in chicken, duck and goose houses. It gets its name from the bell-shaped body that covers the drinking trough. The drinker connects directly to the water supply, so birds always have fresh water without manual refilling. Plasson bell drinkers are available in small, medium and large sizes to suit chicks, growers and adult poultry.

How the Bell Drinker Works

Water enters the bell drinker through the top inlet and fills the trough below the bell. The bell acts as a valve: when the trough is full, the bell seals the water inlet and stops the flow; when birds drink and the water level drops, the bell opens slightly and lets water flow in again. This automatic balancing keeps the water level stable without pumps or electricity.

Key Features of Plasson Bell Drinkers

• Automatic water supply - Connects to the water line, so water is available at all times.

• Stable water level - The bell valve keeps the trough level constant, reducing spillage.

• Easy to clean - The bell can be removed for washing, and the smooth trough has no corners where dirt collects.

• Large drinking area - The wide trough allows several birds to drink at the same time.

• Durable construction - Made of impact-resistant plastic that can be washed and disinfected.

How to Choose the Right Size

Small drinkers suit chicks and starter birds in brooders, while medium and large drinkers are used for growers and adult poultry. As a general guide, provide enough drinker capacity so that all birds can reach water during peak times. A large farm may install one drinker for every 20 to 50 birds, depending on the model and the water supply pressure.

Installation Guide

Install the drinker at a height where the trough edge is about level with the birds' backs, so birds drink comfortably without bending down. Hang the drinker from the ceiling or a support line, or place it on a stand. Connect the inlet to the water line with a hose or pipe, open the water supply, and check that the water level balances correctly. Adjust the hanging height as the birds grow.

Daily Maintenance and Cleaning

Check the water level and the valve movement every day. Clean the drinker at least once a week: disconnect it, remove the bell, wash the trough with water and a soft brush, and disinfect it if needed. Flush the water line after cleaning to remove any sediment. In hot weather, water should be checked more often to make sure it stays fresh and cool.

Common Problems and Solutions

• Water level too low - Check the valve and the water pressure, and clean any blockage at the inlet.

• Leaking drinker - Check the seal between the bell and the body, and replace worn parts.

• Spillage - Make sure the drinker is hanging level and at the correct height.

• Algae or sediment - Clean more frequently and keep the water line flushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Do bell drinkers need electricity?
No. The water level is balanced by the bell valve using the water pressure, so no electricity is required.

Q2: Can bell drinkers be used for day-old chicks?
Yes, when small sizes are used and the height is adjusted so chicks can reach the trough easily.

Q3: How often should the drinker be cleaned?
At least once a week, and more frequently in hot weather or when the flock is large.

About Hebei Yilu Shunfeng Breeding Equipment

Hebei Yilu Shunfeng Breeding Equipment Co., Ltd. supplies Plasson-type bell drinkers, nipple drinkers, feeders and other poultry equipment for farms and distributors worldwide. Products are quality checked before shipment and packed for export. Contact us for sizing advice and mixed container orders.

References

• FAO. Guidelines on Livestock Water Requirements. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

• Council Directive 98/58/EC. Concerning the Protection of Animals Kept for Farming Purposes.

• ISO 9001:2015. Quality Management Systems - Requirements. International Organization for Standardization.