One of the most annoying problems that flock owners face is the rodent problem. You know… the struggle of keeping your feed safe from pests (and the elements). It’s not just about feeding your flock; it’s about doing it efficiently, economically, and safely. Enter Grandpa’s Feeders Automatic Chicken Feeder, a product designed to tackle these very issues. Let’s have a look at it.
This is available on eBay, TSC, and Amazon, among other vendors. You can get yours here.
Key Features
Material and Build Quality
One of the standout features of Grandpa’s Feeders is its galvanized steel finish. Unlike other chicken feeders that may deteriorate over time, this one is built to last in the toughest outdoor conditions. It’s the kind of investment that pays off in the long run.
Galvanization is the process of applying a protective zinc coating to steel or iron to prevent rusting. The most common method used is hot-dip galvanizing, in which the metal is submerged in a bath of molten zinc.
Advantages of Galvanization
- Corrosion Resistance: The zinc coating acts as a barrier that protects the underlying metal from corrosion.
- Longevity: Galvanized metals have a longer lifespan compared to non-galvanized metals.
- Cost-Effective: Although the galvanizing process requires an initial investment, it often results in lower maintenance costs over time.
Feed on Demand
The “Feed on Demand” feature ensures that your chickens can access food whenever they’re hungry, which, along with water, is essential for optimal laying and overall happiness. Multiple chickens can eat at once, so there’s less jostling and competition for food.
Large Feed Capacity
The standard size of this automatic feeder holds up to 20 lbs of feed, enough to sustain approximately 6 chickens for 10 days. This is particularly useful for small to medium-sized flocks and reduces the frequency of refilling the feeder.
Cost Savings
Many users have reported that Grandpa’s Feeder paid for itself within the first year by significantly cutting down on feed costs. The built-in anti-flick grill prevents chickens from throwing food out, further reducing waste.
Ease of Assembly
With a customer rating of 4.6 for ease of assembly, setting up Grandpa’s Feeder seems to be a breeze. This is a big plus for those who may not be particularly handy with tools.
Ease of Use
The feeder scores a 4.5 in ease of use, indicating that both the chickens and their owners find it user-friendly. The side guards ensure that the chickens must stand on the treadplate to access the feed, making it more secure.
Weatherproof
Rated at 4.4 for its weatherproof capabilities, this feeder is designed to withstand various weather conditions, keeping the feed dry and safe.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Durable galvanized steel construction
- Feed on demand for optimal laying
- Large feed capacity suitable for small to medium flocks
- Cost-effective in the long run
Cons:
- Higher initial cost compared to basic feeders
- It may require some time for chickens to get used to it
My Take
Grandpa’s Feeders Automatic Chicken Feeder offers a robust, efficient, and economical solution for feeding your backyard flock. Its durable construction, feed-on-demand feature, and large capacity make it a worthwhile investment for any chicken owner. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits and cost savings make it a product worth considering.
Interested in making your chicken-feeding life easier? Click here to check out Grandpa’s Feeders Automatic Chicken Feeder on Amazon.