Do chicks need a heat lamp? If so for how long? and what temperature? This will help you answer those questions. Raising baby chicks is one of the cute little joys of homesteading, but it comes with a learning curve—especially when it comes to keeping them warm. If you’re wondering how long chicks need a heat lamp, the short answer is about six weeks. During this time, you’ll gradually reduce the amount of heat as they feather out and learn to regulate their body temperature.
WHY DO BABY CHICKS NEED HEAT?
Unlike mature chickens, baby chicks don’t have the ability to regulate their body temperature right away. In the wild (or in a coop), a broody hen provides warmth by tucking her chicks under her feathers. Without a mama hen, it’s up to us to provide a safe and warm environment.
The first few weeks are critical—without enough warmth, chicks can quickly become cold, weak, and even fail to thrive. That’s why a heat lamp or brooder plate is essential in those early days.
HOW LONG DO CHICKS NEED A HEAT LAMP?
Chicks need supplemental heat until they are around six weeks old. However, the temperature should be gradually decreased each week:
- Week 1: Keep the brooder at 90-95°F.
- Week 2: Lower to 85-90°F.
- Week 3: Drop to 80-85°F.
- Week 4: Reduce further to 75-80°F.
- Week 5: Lower to 70-75°F.
- Week 6: If they’re fully feathered, they can handle typical outdoor temperatures without extra heat.
Always observe your chicks—if they’re huddled together under the lamp, they’re too cold. If they’re scattered away from the heat, they may be too warm. Happy chicks move freely and chirp contentedly. You will notice if you hear loud chirps if the chick is in distress.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT HEAT SOURCE
Heat Lamp vs. Brooder Plate
- Placing the lamp too close: Can cause overheating and even start fires.
- Placing the lamp too high: May not provide enough warmth, leading to chilled chicks.
- Not securing the lamp properly: Always attach the heat lamp securely to prevent it from falling into bedding.
- Using a white light bulb: Red bulbs are best to prevent sleep disturbances and pecking behaviors.
We use both! If you can keep the heat lamp safely out of reach but close enough to do the job it is a great place to start. With my flock, the brooder plate was the reliable way to safely keep your chickens warm and happy without the fear of overheating or burning down the coop.
FAQS ABOUT CHICK BROODER HEAT
Can I use a regular light bulb instead of a heat lamp?
No, regular bulbs do not provide enough warmth. Use a red or infrared heat bulb designed for brooders.
Do I need to keep a heat lamp on 24/7?
Yes, for the first few weeks. Gradually reduce usage during the day as they grow.
When can I move chicks outside?
Chicks can move to a coop at six weeks if temperatures are consistently above 50°F.
What if my chicks are different ages?
Be careful mixing different ages, as younger chicks need more heat. Make sure smaller chicks aren’t being smothered or pushed away from warmth by bigger ones. Within a week or two is probably just fine to put together.
Keeping baby chicks warm is a key part of raising a healthy flock. Whether you use a heat lamp or brooder plate, the goal is to keep them comfortable while gradually reducing heat as they grow. Depending on your climate and coop situation your birds will only need this heat for a little while.
Want to learn more?
- Best Chicken Breeds for Kids
- How Much Space Do Chickens Need?
- Here are the 8 best heritage chicken breeds for a self-sufficient farm
Happy chick raising!
Linnea