Heat lamps are a common way to keep chicks warm, but they’re linked to barn and coop fires. Brooder plates like the Brinsea EcoGlow offer an alternative. This review looks at how they work.
Verdict at a Glance: The Brinsea EcoGlow is a radiant heat plate brooder that mimics a mother hen. Many owners choose it to reduce fire risk compared with heat lamps. It works best in a sheltered space.
At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Radiant heat plate brooder |
| Sizes | Several |
| Adjustment | Height adjustable legs |
| Power | Low wattage |
| Best for | Chicks and other poultry |
What It Is and How It Works
The EcoGlow is a flat, heated plate on adjustable legs. Chicks huddle under it to stay warm, then move out to eat, drink and explore, similar to how they’d behave with a broody hen. Because the plate only warms what touches or sits just below it, the rest of the brooder stays cooler.
Heat lamps are a well-known cause of coop and barn fires, especially when they fall into bedding. Radiant plates use much less power and don’t rely on a hot bulb.
Brooder plates also let chicks experience a natural day-night cycle, since they don’t produce bright light. Chicks typically need supplemental heat until they’re fully feathered, often around 5 to 6 weeks, depending on the weather and setting. See backyard chickens 101.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lower fire risk than heat lamps | Needs a sheltered space |
| Low energy use | Higher upfront cost |
| Mimics a hen | Chicks may need time to adjust |
| Adjustable height | Must be cleaned |
| Natural day-night cycle |
Setting Up a Brooder
- Set the plate so chicks can stand underneath with their backs lightly touching it.
- Tilt the plate slightly at first so smaller chicks can find a comfortable spot.
- Raise the legs as chicks grow.
- Give chicks room to move away from the heat.
- Check the room temperature against Brinsea’s guidance for your model.
| Chick behavior | What it may mean |
|---|---|
| Spread out, active, eating | Comfortable |
| Huddled tightly under the plate | Too cold; check room temperature or plate height |
| Avoiding the plate, panting | Too warm; raise the plate or improve ventilation |
| Crowded in one corner | Draft or stress |
Things to Consider Before Buying
- Check the minimum room temperature for your model.
- Choose a size that fits the number of chicks you’ll raise.
- Plan to raise the plate as chicks grow.
- Clean droppings from the top of the plate regularly.
- Watch chick behavior closely in the first few days.
Tips for Using It
- Use a plate cover or cone so chicks don’t perch and poop on top.
- Place food and water a short distance from the plate.
- Turn the plate on a few hours before chicks arrive.
Who It Suits
| Good fit if… | Consider something else if… |
|---|---|
| You want to reduce fire risk from heat lamps | Your brooder is in a very cold, unheated space |
| You brood chicks in a sheltered space | You need to brood a very large number of chicks at once |
| You want a natural day-night cycle for chicks |
Alternatives to Consider
| Option | How it differs |
|---|---|
| Heat lamps | Lower cost, higher fire risk |
| Premier 1 Sweeter Heater | Another radiant option |
| Broody hen | Natural option |
When to Call Your Vet
Contact your vet if:
- Chicks huddle constantly
- Chicks are lethargic
- Chicks have pasty butt
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Brinsea EcoGlow safer than a heat lamp?
Radiant plates don’t use a hot bulb and use less power, which many owners see as a lower fire risk. Any electrical device still needs safe cords and placement.
How many chicks can the EcoGlow hold?
It depends on the model. Brinsea lists capacity for each size. Chicks grow fast, so choose a size with room to spare.
Does the EcoGlow work in a cold garage or barn?
It’s designed for sheltered spaces, and Brinsea gives guidance on minimum room temperature. In very cold spaces, chicks may not stay warm enough.
How do I adjust the EcoGlow as chicks grow?
Raise the legs so chicks can still touch the plate with their backs while standing. Adjust every few days as they grow.
How long do chicks need the brooder plate?
Most chicks need supplemental heat until they’re fully feathered, often around 5 to 6 weeks. Weather and room temperature affect this.
Can I use the EcoGlow for ducklings?
Yes. Many owners use it for ducklings and other poultry. Ducklings are messy, so plan for extra cleaning.
How do I clean the EcoGlow?
Unplug it and wipe the plate and legs with warm water and a mild cleaner. Let it dry before plugging it back in.
Do chicks need light at night with a brooder plate?
No. Chicks can rest in the dark under the plate. A night light isn’t needed, though a dim light can help you check on them.
Pet Health Man is independent and isn’t paid by the brands we review. Product formulas, specifications and prices change, so check the current label or the manufacturer’s information before you buy.
This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you’re worried about your pet’s health, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital.
