Providing water to wild birds during the winter months can be difficult. Your bird bath can quickly turn to ice in cold weather if the temperature plunges below freezing (32f). Some bird lovers go to great lengths to combat freezing water by breaking up the ice and refilling their bird baths daily for warmth. This can be a time-consuming and annoying task. Instead of trying to combat freezing water, a heated bird bath can be a lifesaver.
This is why heated bird baths are appealing, especially during the winter months when frozen water can be a problem. One of the best benefits of using a heated bath for your birds is that they can continue to have access to water year-round without worrying about the water freezing up during the winter months and having to replenish it daily.
Birds will not get into the water when it is below freezing, so a heated bird bath is a perfect way to give them access to water even when it’s freezing outside without risking their health due to freezing water.
Whether you choose to purchase a simple device that attaches to your current bird bath or upgrade all the way to a luxurious bird bath with heating capabilities, there is one suited for every bird lover.
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The Best Heated Bird Baths
1.GESAIL Bird Habitat UV, 3 Easy Ways to Mount Detachable 75W Heated Bird Bath
The GESAIL heated bird bath has a built-in 120 volts 75-watt heating element enclosed and sealed for safety.
This heated bird bath comes with a heater thermostatically controlled to operate only when necessary. This saves electricity, prevents bird bath water from freezing – even when temperatures are below freezing.
It offers a uniquely innovative design that allows for 3 different mounting options on deck mount, ground mount, and legs for clamp mount.
Basin easily removes from the pedestal for convenience and cleaning. This heated birth bath can be used year-round, and the cord tucks away for warmer months if not in use.
What we liked
- Easy to empty and clean, the basin is easily removed
- Works in sub-zero temperatures, Tested to -13° F (-25° C).
- Affordable compared to other heated birdbaths
- Multiple mounting capabilities
- Effective in keeping water unfrozen during winter months
- Quick and easy installation
- Comes in 3 different colors blue, green, orange
What we didn’t like
- Not very deep, on the shallow side (great for smaller birds)
- Comes with a very short cord, an extension cord may be needed
- Color tends to fade fast
Diameter: 14-inch diameter
Depth: 2 inches, 1 quart of water
Mounting options: Clamp, deck, post, ground, legs for clamp mount
Length of power cord: About 10- 12 inches
Lowest working temperature: Tested to -13°F (-25°C)
2. API Heated Bird bath with Stand 150W
The API heated bird bath is the perfect bath for birds of every size and species. This heated bird bath features 150 watts of power and is thermostatically controlled. The heating element is enclosed and sealed for safety, so birds never contact the heater.
A built-in thermostat and 150 watts of power prevent the bird bath from becoming a frozen pond. The heating element automatically maintains a temperature between 40 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
The bowl is textured and shaped to make it easy for birds’ talons to grab on and perch, while the gradual slope encourages bathing. It has a 30-inch-high metal stand that comes with the heated bird bath and can also be mounted on a wooden deck railing. The heated bird bath is made in the United States and covered by a three-year warranty.
What we liked
- Deeper than most heated bird baths
- Powerful heater works in extremely cold weather
- Comes with a 30-inch stand
- Customers have used it for many years with no issues
- Great for all birds species and sizes
- Makes it easy for birds to perch on and bathe
- Keeps water temperature between 40 F and 50 F degrees
- 3-year warranty
- Comes with 2 units
What we didn’t like
- Not many mounting options
- The stand is not as sturdy as most
- More expensive than other heated bird baths
Diameter: 20 inches
Depth: 2 inches
Mounting options: Stand, Deck
Length of power cord: Approximately 15 inches
Lowest working temperature: -20 degrees F
3. Birds Choice HPEDIL-GR Ivy Pedestal Heated Bird Bath 150W
Birds Choice pedestal heated bird bath is a great choice if you are looking for something sturdy but not too heavy or difficult to install. It has a foldable stand for easy storage during non-winter months.
It keeps water ice-free all winter long and has been tested to work in -20 F conditions. Highly durable bird bath made with high-quality materials that include recycled ABS, metal, plastic, and more. It is durable enough to withstand harsh winter weather for many years to come.
What we liked
- Beautiful design and made of high-quality materials
- Sturdy and will not blow over even in heavy winds
- Easily foldable to put away during summer months
- Attracts many birds, they seem to love the natural bird bath
- Keeps ice away without any problems
- Last for many years to come
What we didn’t like
- Can only use it with the pedestal
- The cord is short
Diameter: 19.5-25.25 inches
Depth: Can hold 1 gallon of water
Mounting options: Stand
Length of power cord: About 10 inches
Lowest working temperature: -20 degrees F
4. API Heated Bird Bath With Stand 50W
API heated bird bath with stand is thermostatically controlled (50W), which keeps water from freezing even during harsh winter conditions. This bird bath keeps water ice-free in temperatures below zero degrees.
The API heated bird bath can be used for many years with no problems with material cracking or damaging in extreme winter weather. The heating element can be removed so you can use the bird bath year-round. Includes a metal stand and 3 stakes to allow for anchoring in the ground.
What we liked
- Water can easily be emptied and cleaned regularly
- Powerful heater works in extreme cold, below zero
- Effective heating element that can be removed
- Comes with a stand and stakes to allow anchoring in the ground
- Birds love it and adds appeal to your outdoor space
- Can be used without needing to be replaced for many years
- Deeper than other small heated bird baths
What we didn’t like
- No mounting options other than the stand
- On the small size
- Cord is short
- More expensive than other heated bird bath for the size
Diameter: 14.25 inches
Depth: 4 inches
Mounting options: Stand
Length of power cord: About 10 inches
Lowest working temperature: Below 0 F degrees
5. K&H Pet Products Birdbath 80W
The K&H Pet Products heated bird bath has a natural stone look and feels that is perfect for any backyard. This bird bath has a non-slip surface and is made from UV-resistant plastic that is made to last. Can withstand winter temperatures to -30F without freezing.
This design requires no assembly, just place on the ground for a natural-looking bird bath wild birds will love. Available in heated or unheated models, the heated model is MET safety listed. Comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty.
What we liked
- Design provides ease, durability, and mimics a natural stone in appearance
- No assembly required
- Non-slip and made from resistant plastic, will last for years to come
- Easy to clean
- Large bird bath, great for all kinds of birds
- 2 Year Manufacturer Warranty
What we didn’t like
- Short Cord
- Not able to mount
- Nothing to anchor it into the ground
Diameter: 24 x 17.5 inches
Depth: 4 inches, 1 gallon
Length of power cord: About 5 to 12 inches
Lowest working temperature: -15 degrees F
6. API Bird Bath De-Icer with Aluminum Base, 250 Watt
Instead of a heated bird bath, a de-icer is another great option to heat your birdbath. The API bird bath de-icer is perfect if you already have a bird bath and you want to add a heater to keep freshwater from freezing over. It’s easy to install and low-profile, meaning that it won’t take up much space on your birdbath or yard.
This unit conserves power and energy using a built-in thermostat that only turns on when water needs to be heated. The deicer has a stainless steel guard and auto-shutoff for bird’s safety to protect them from the heating element. It is recommended to hold up to 15 gallons of water and is compatible with most bird baths.
An aluminum base is included, which allows the device to run at a cooler temperature and provides a 6-10 ft anti-rub power cord.
What we liked
- Comes with a cord protector and aluminum base
- Can be used in any bath for birds up to 15 gallons
- Easily cleaned and stored for winter, won’t take up space
- More wattage than heated bird baths, 250W
- Made in the USA
- Longer cord than heated bird baths
- Built-in thermostat that only comes on when needed
- Stainless steel guard to protect birds from the heating element
What we didn’t like
- Compared to a heated bird bath the de-icer may need to be replaced often
Diameter: 4.75 inches
Length of power cord: 10 feet
Lowest working temperature: -30 degrees F
7 K&H Pet Products Ice Eliminator Super Bird Bath Deicer Natural 50W-80W
This K&H ice eliminator is another great option if you are looking for an easy, affordable way to de-ice your existing bird bath. This model safely heats water to 20 F when temperatures are below zero F. It is thermostatically controlled to keep water from freezing even on the coldest days.
Easy and durable enamel finish, which makes cleaning a breeze. It can even be spray painted to match any color bird bath. This unit has been tested and certified by MET to exceed USA/CA electrical safety standards. It also includes a three-year manufacturer warranty.
What we liked
- Very cheap option compared to heated bird baths
- Maintains open water to 20-degree below zero Fahrenheit
- Thermostatically controlled to automatically keep water from freezing
- Easy to clean durable enamel finish that can be spray painted
- Uses only 50 or 80 watts
- 3 year warranty
What we didn’t like
- Doesn’t have the longest use compared to other heated bird baths
- Shorter cord than other de-icers
Diameter: 6.5 x 4.5 inches
Length of power cord: 18 inch
Lowest working temperature: 0 degrees F
8. API Bird Bath De-Icer Compatible with Most Bird Baths 200W
This API bird bath de-icer is the perfect option if you don’t want to worry about finding a place to store your heated bird bath over the winter season. Just add the de-icer to any bird bath made of pottery, plastic, or concrete up to 15 gallons or less.
The de-icer works even in sub-zero temperatures and comes with a built-in thermostat that conserves energy by only turning on when the water reaches a certain degree. It also has an auto-shutoff for safety with a stainless steel guard to prevent wildlife from contacting the heating element.
This de-icer comes with a 15-inch cord that is protected with anti-rub for added durability and safety.
What we liked
- Can be used in a variety of birdbaths
- Easy to store doesn’t take up space
- Built-in thermostat that conserves energy
- Power cord is protected for added safety
- More wattage than traditional bird baths
- The heating element is fully enclosed and protected so that animals cannot come into contact with it
- Cheap alternative to keep water from freezing over
- Works great at keeping water unfrozen, and lasts longer
What we didn’t like
- Will need to replace more often than a traditional heated bird bath
- Shorter cord than other de-icers
Diameter: 3.5 inches
Length of power cord: 15 inches
Lowest working temperature: -10 degrees F
9. YUYUSO Heated Birdbath with Chains 75W
The Yuyuso heated bird bath with chains is a great option; if you want something small, you can hang it from your porch or a stand in your yard. This allows you to easily watch birds coming to visit your bird bath, even in the winter season.
The heated bird bath is thermostatically controlled to operate only when necessary by turning on only when water nears freezing temperatures. This bird bath can be hung from an S hook or even a tree branch to attract birds. It is made from PP material; it won’t dent, break or fracture in bad weather.
The bowl measures 12 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep, perfect for holding a few small birds at a time.
What we liked
- Easy to empty and clean
- Works in sub-zero temperatures
- Affordable compared to other models
- Small enough to use on your front or back porch
- Option to hang to easily see birds visting your bird bath
What we didn’t like
- Not very deep, will have to refilled more often
- Small diameter (great for smaller birds)
- Short Cord
- Not the best option for bigger birds
- Not ideal for very cold temperatures -30F
Diameter: 12-inch diameter
Depth: 2 inches
Mounting options: Hang from S hook
Lowest working temperature: 0 F
What is a heated birdbath and why do you need one?
A heated bird bath is a bird bath that has the ability to heat up and keep fresh water from freezing over during the winter months. You won’t have to break up ice and refill the heated bird bath daily as you would a regular bird bath. It is a great way to provide your feathered friends with water in the winter.
So, why do you need a heated birdbath?
Birds rely on water for their survival, drinking, and bathing needs. Birds will have difficulty finding fresh water sources during the winter months because it freezes over quickly in colder climates. Heated bird baths also save you time by not having to refill the heated bird bath as often and can provide your birds with fresh water year-round.
You can attract and enjoy watching birds visiting your heated bird bath year-round without sacrificing the bird’s health due to freezing water.
Benefits of a heated bird bath
- Provides fresh water year round
- Saves time by not having to break up ice and refill the heated bird bath as often
- Attracts and enjoy watching birds visiting your heated bird bath year round without sacrificing the birds health due to freezing water.
- Birds need a source of clean, fresh water in order to survive during winter months.
How to choose the best heated bird bath?
When choosing a heated bird bath for your home, there are certain features you should be on the lookout for. Some features to look out for are energy-saving bird baths that reduce the cost to maintain and run. Also finding a bird bath that is physically attractive in your landscape and a great fit for your feathered friends.
Lastly, it’s important to find a heated birdbath that is safe for use with children and pets and, of course, the birds that come to visit.
- Thermostat-controlled heater: Heating element automatically turns on and off. The heating element will only turn on when the water temperature drops below freezing.
- Water Depth: Bird baths are created in different sizes and depths so that large or small birds can bathe and enjoy a drink. To attract the right species of birds opt for one that is deep enough for the birds you are trying to attract.
- Type: When purchasing a heated bird bath make sure to choose the right bath depending on where you want it located. Heated bird baths can be mounted, free-standing, deck mounted, hanging or on the ground.
- Sturdy: Opt for a heated bird bath that won’t fall over when in use. One that is sturdy enough to endure strong winds or harsh weather.
- Diameter: Ideal bird baths should be at least 2 feet wide to accommodate birds of all sizes.
- Working Temperature: Heated bird baths have a variety of freezing temperatures that they can work in to prevent water from freezing. It’s always best to choose the right heated bird bath for your climate.
Is it expensive to run a heated bird bath?
- Heaters with higher wattage may cost more money to operate, but they also run hotter. In areas where the temperature goes into sub-zero territory during winter, you should choose a high wattage heater. Low watt heaters can also be a great option when wanting to save on energy.
- Many heated bird baths run on a built-in thermostat and will turn on and off automatically. This saves energy and power by only running when temperatures go below a certain level. Prices will be lower if the month has warmer weather and the heater does not operate as much.
- The overall cost of using a heated bath depends on many factors one being the price of electricity in your location and how long the heater is turned on each day. You can expect a 75 watts heated bird bath to cost roughly .13 cents to run per kilowatt in the United States. If you run the heated bird bath for 24 hours, you could expect a price of $7.12 for a month.
- A 150 watt heated bath would cost about $14.24 per month to operate 24 hours a day.
Should you consider a de-icer instead of a heated bird bath?
A de-icer is a heating element that is added to your existing bird bath to keep water from freezing. These are a good option if you already have a bird bath that does not have a built-in heater, and you don’t want to purchase another one just for winter use.
De-icers that are thermostat-controlled, just like regular heated bird baths, save energy. They will only turn on when temperatures drop below freezing. You can find de-icers come in various sizes and shapes to suit the size and depth of your bird bath.
A de-icer is an easy way to keep water from freezing and is easily stored away during the warmer months. Some de-icers are only compatible with certain materials such as plastic. Make sure before purchasing one it will work with your current bird bath.
Although de-icers are a cheaper alternative than using an outdoor heated bird bath, they will need to be replaced on a more frequent basis.
What to avoid when using a heated bird bath?
To keep your birdbath in excellent condition all year round, you’ll need to take care and provide regular maintenance. Here are a few pointers when using your heated bird bath.
- Don’t let your heated bird bath or de-icer run out of water
- Use caution if using a concrete heated bird bath, plastic is better to avoid cracks or damage
- Never add salt or chemicals to the bird bath
- Use electrical safety when using a heated bird bath
When using your heated bird bath, always make sure there is water, or it can cause the heating element to malfunction or quit working altogether.
Furthermore, a heated concrete bath or any bath made of a porous surface could potentially result in a cracked or broken bird bath. Porous materials can absorb water and may crack when water freezes and thaws. To get the most use out of your heated bird bath, purchase one made from plastic or fiberglass.
If you add salt, antifreeze, or other chemicals to your heated bird bath, the results could be fatal for birds and other wildlife. Even small amounts will cause injury or death. Only use clean, fresh water in your heated bird bath or any other bird bath.
More importantly, use electrical safety when using your heated bird bath. Always use an outdoor extension cord that can handle your heated bird bath watts. Ensure the outlet and extension cord are in good condition. Do not use indoor extension cords or multiple cords put together.
Tips to get the most use out of your heated bird bath
- Keep your bird bath filled with fresh water daily to ensure birds have access to water daily. This also keeps your heating element from malfunctioning and breaking all together.
- Keep your bird bath clean and change out the water regularly. About every 2 to 4 days add fresh water. You can clean your bird bath by pouring out any water left in the basin and removing any debris. Then use a mix of vinegar and water to scrub the surface clean. Rinse well and let dry before refilling with fresh water.
- Clear the snow off the edge of your bird bath after a snowfall to give birds access to fresh water.
- Install your heated bird bath in a sunny area so that it can take advantage of solar heat. This will save energy by allowing the heater to turn off when it is warm enough.
- Add stones to your heated bird bath to reduce the depth of the water and cover with sticks to allow for easy drinking access. This will help birds from completely submering in the water during freezing temperatures.
- You should read the instruction manual that comes with your bird bath to understand how your model operates.
FAQS
Are bird bath heaters safe?
Yes, bird bath heaters are safe as long as you purchase one with the heating element enclosed, so wildlife does not come into contact with it. Always use electrical safety when using a heated bird bath or de-icer. An outdoor extension cord and outlet cover are essential when using a heated bird bath.
How long with a heated birdbath last?
A reliable heated bird bath can last anywhere from 2 to 3 years before needing to be replaced. However, some heated bird bath owners reported their bath lasted for as long as 10 years.
A de-icer will require you to replace it more often than a heated bird bath. A de-icer can last for 1 to 2 winters at the most.
Does the water get really hot?
The water does not get very hot. Many bird baths will keep the water at a comfortable temperature for birds. The built-in thermostat will only warm the water enough to keep it from freezing over.
While other heated birds baths will maintain the water temperature between 40 F and 50 F degrees.
When should I use a heated birdbath or de-icer?
It is recommended to only use a heated bird bath or de-icer when temperatures go below freezing to ensure the water does not freeze over. During warmer months, you can leave the heated bird bath turned off or store it away for the next winter season.
Final Verdict
Buying a heated bird bath is essential for birds to have freshwater year-round without the headache of having to break up ice and refill water daily.
Birds are smart as they will not get into the water below freezing, so a heated bird bath is a great way to give them access to water even when it is freezing temperatures outside without risking their health.
A heated bird bath also allows you to enjoy having birds visit your bird bath, even during the winter months when the weather is harsh.
Our Top Picks
If we had to choose our top two heated bird baths, I would say the GESAIL Bird Habitat heated bird bath 75W or the API Heated Bird bath with Stand 150W.
The Gesail heated bird bath 75W is a great option because it can be mounted in different locations. It offers a unique design that allows for 3 different mounting options on deck mount, ground mount, and legs for clamp mount.
Not only is it easy to take off the basin to clean, but it is also a favorite since it offers a variety of colors to best match your landscaping. The only thing we did not like about this heated bird bath is that it may need to be refilled more often due to the depth is only about 2 inches deep.
Our next choice is the API Heated Bird Bath with stand 150w. Although this bird bath can only be mounted on a deck or used with the stand, it is a great option due to how powerful the heater is. It comes with a 30-inch stand and has been used for many years by customers without any complaints. This particular bird bath also comes with 2 units.
Due to the deeper depth of water and size, it is great for birds of all sizes and species. It even has a unique design which makes it easy for birds to perch and bathe on. It also keeps water at a constant temperature between 40F and 50F degrees. We also love the fact it comes with a 3-year warranty.
What we didn’t like was that it is a more expensive option than the other model of bird baths, but it has been reported to last longer. The stand is not the sturdiest, but many reviewers have not had a problem falling over even in high winds.
We hope this review helps you find the best-heated bird bath for your needs and budget.
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