New old racks: watering system?

[MootWorm]

Hey guys. I just picked up two new racks (for only 100 bucks!!!) and they already have some watering valves in place. Most of them look to be in good condition, there's one that's been chewed off and a hole in another area. I've never used a watering system before, my other rack has good old water bottles. Is it worth it to repair the system? Or should I stick with bottles? I'm a little wary of using the system after hearing about some of the horror stories. I appreciate any input!

[Stewart_Reptiles]

I have been using watering system on all my racks since 2007 and I would never imagine going back.

The key is when you do your weekly cleaning, check your valve real quick make sure they are functioning (no clogged up and not leaking)

[MootWorm]

I have been using watering system on all my racks since 2007 and I would never imagine going back.

The key is when you do your weekly cleaning, check your valve real quick make sure they are functioning (no clogged up and not leaking)

That's what I like to hear! Ok I think I'll just jump in with watering. 12 water bottles will cost me a small fortune, and I might be able to get away with under 20 for repairs.

[MootWorm]

Hey Deborah, just one more question, if you don't mind I've been calling around to my local feed stores with no luck, but do you think it's possible to find the nozzles at a brick and mortar store? I'm fairly confident I can replace the tubing and find t-connectors at a hardware store, I just can't seem to find the nozzles. Or is there any easily obtainable piece I can use in its stead? Thanks!

[Stewart_Reptiles]

Hey Deborah, just one more question, if you don't mind I've been calling around to my local feed stores with no luck, but do you think it's possible to find the nozzles at a brick and mortar store? I'm fairly confident I can replace the tubing and find t-connectors at a hardware store, I just can't seem to find the nozzles. Or is there any easily obtainable piece I can use in its stead? Thanks!

It's really doubtful that will find those locally.

As far as mortar tubs people usually use the ones from home depot and while home depot may have tubing they won't have anything related to animals.

Tubing used is generally 3/16.

Here is where I get my supply, they have the best prices around http://www.klubertanz.com/Catalog.htm

[MootWorm]

It's really doubtful that will find those locally.

As far as mortar tubs people usually use the ones from home depot and while home depot may have tubing they won't have anything related to animals.

Tubing used is generally 3/16.

Here is where I get my supply, they have the best prices around http://www.klubertanz.com/Catalog.htm

Thanks, you're a life saver! I was able to find the tubing and a clear water reservoir at home depot, and I salvaged all the T-connectors and 7 valves. The existing tubes were absolutely disgusting, as was much of the rack lol. Even came with a free dead mouse But I should be okay to set up one rack, which is all I need for the moment. I think I'll put an order in for the valves at that website. Thanks for the link!

[txcoker]

Thanks, you're a life saver! I was able to find the tubing and a clear water reservoir at home depot, and I salvaged all the T-connectors and 7 valves. The existing tubes were absolutely disgusting, as was much of the rack lol. Even came with a free dead mouse But I should be okay to set up one rack, which is all I need for the moment. I think I'll put an order in for the valves at that website. Thanks for the link!

If the rack is/was that dirty I would recommend you clean it with a strong cleaner and let it air dry for a few days. If you can place it outside in direct sunlight it would be best.

[MootWorm]

If the rack is/was that dirty I would recommend you clean it with a strong cleaner and let it air dry for a few days. If you can place it outside in direct sunlight it would be best.

Oh yeah I showered it in CLR, then bleach, then hit it with a pressure washer I almost got some rats with the deal, but after seeing the condition of the tubs, I'm really glad I didn't. The recently used ones had tons of stuck on, semi wet filthy bedding. And there was dog food stuck in some of the wire :/ Hopefully some time out in the Arizona sun will kill anything I missed.

They're not the prettiest, but they're functional. I'm not the best carpenter, so I'll take cleaning over building any day lol.

[MootWorm]

If the rack is/was that dirty I would recommend you clean it with a strong cleaner and let it air dry for a few days. If you can place it outside in direct sunlight it would be best.

Do you think two days would be enough? I'd like to get it up and running tomorrow evening. I did all the cleaning yesterday afternoon, so it will have had two full days sun drying. Also, I've been reading about people adding bleach to their water reservoir... Yay or nay? I'd rather not deal with slime mold in my tubing, but I'm not sure how this will affect the rats in the long run.

[txcoker]

Do you think two days would be enough? I'd like to get it up and running tomorrow evening. I did all the cleaning yesterday afternoon, so it will have had two full days sun drying. Also, I've been reading about people adding bleach to their water reservoir... Yay or nay? I'd rather not deal with slime mold in my tubing, but I'm not sure how this will affect the rats in the long run.

It is possible if its been really hot. I don't use anything in my water. If you are using black tubing it generally doesn't grow algae, if needed you can always flush it out monthly if you want.