As summer temperatures rise, Cumberland emphasizes the importance of maintaining proper ventilation in poultry houses to ensure bird comfort and operational success. Effective ventilation during hot weather is crucial to prevent heat stress, which can significantly impact bird health and productivity. Darrell Nevins, Cumberland district manager, offers essential maintenance steps for peak ventilation performance:
Evaporative Cooling System:
- Maintenance: Clean or replace pads as necessary. Flush the system at least once per week, or more frequently if required, to prevent the buildup of contaminants, minerals, and chemicals in the water.
- System Check: Ensure the spray bar delivers the correct amount of water to the pads, no holes are clogged, and all appropriate valves are open.
Curtains and Tunnel Doors:
- Airflow Management: Verify that tunnel doors open fully to allow proper airflow through the poultry house. The measurement from the tip of the fully opened tunnel door to the top of the opening should match the height of the door.
- Curtain Condition: Ensure curtains are free from holes when closed and can open fully.
- Dead Spots: Address the “triangular dead spot” at the curtain end of the house by positioning fans to reduce stale air areas. Regularly maintain and check these fans to ensure proper functioning.
Ventilation Doors:
- Young Bird Protection: Focus on vent doors, which are crucial for summer ventilation, particularly for young birds during cool nights. These doors help move air onto the ceiling before it drops down, avoiding chilling baby chicks without feathers.
- Airflow Direction: Ensure air is pulled where birds are located and avoid backflow from the off end, which could be contaminated.
Fans:
- Optimal Operation: Ensure fans operate at full capacity by keeping shutters clean and functional.
- Mechanical Checks: Confirm that bearings are greased, belts are tightened properly and not riding low in the pulley. Replace belts before they wear out and break.
For more detailed guidance, producers can refer to USDA and university ventilation resources, consult their poultry equipment dealer, or visit cumberlandpoultry.com.
