Piggery heating systems

Older growers and mature pigs can withstand low temperatures but young pigs are very susceptible to low temperatures.

Piglets can die if the ambient temperature falls below 16°C. Monitor recent weaners during cold weather – if they are huddled then they are cold.

Protect piglets

Piglets are susceptible to low temperatures, so keep indoor piglet areas warmer than 16°C.

The pig welfare code recommends that you provide litter bedding (dry straw or untreated wood shavings) and insulation or heating for piglets under 3 weeks.

Avoid draughts

You should eliminate draughts in cold weather, and for young pigs throughout the year, depending on the external and shed temperature.

Danger areas are:

• cracks in walls or near floor level
• open-ended trenches, which let draughts up through slats
• uncovered heat lamps which create draughts at floor level where cold air displaces hot air.

Use creep boxes or covers to keep warmth around the piglets and to reduce draughts.

Bedding

Choose bedding materials that are absorbent and comfortable.

Use nesting materials such as untreated wood saw shavings, straw or shredded paper to protect your newborn and weaned piglets. These materials can also be used for older pigs in outdoor shelters during cold weather and for deep litter shelters.

Avoid materials that:

• are slippery
• have too long straw length – can inhibit piglet ease of movement
• have high environmental bacteria levels
• are contaminated by mycotoxins or chemicals.

Creep boxes and kennels

Creep boxes or kennels can be installed in farrowing and weaning areas. They can be made from waterproof ply, with a hinged lid to easily check on the pigs. A nearly fully enclosed creep area stops draughts and uses less energy.

Your heat supply may be:

• infra-red gas
• electric or water-heated pads
• electric radiant bars or bulbs.

To build the most heat-efficient creep areas and kennels:

• choose a safe area for your heating system and creep construction to reduce fire risk
• position heat lamps so they maintain temperature without burning yet warm all piglets at the same time
• insulate pig housing to keep heat in
• seal the top of your kennels
• build heavy plastic strip doors so your piglets can access their sow.

Kennels need to be able to be opened for more ventilation in hot weather and to come apart for easy cleaning.