By Jamie Martin
As the cold weather sets in, it’s crucial for swine producers to prepare their barns to maintain a healthy environment for their livestock.
Mark Oberreuter, an experienced system design engineer, outlines essential maintenance tasks that should be addressed before the fall and winter seasons hit.
Tunnel Curtains: Check that tunnel curtains are sealed properly with no holes or rips, ensuring they close completely to prevent cold drafts.
Pit Covers: Secure pit covers to stop air leakage which can affect the barn’s heating efficiency.
Ceiling Inlets: Adjust ceiling inlets for optimal air flow; they should be set to a minimum opening during colder months to avoid chilling the pigs with cold drafts.
Fans: Inspect all fans for functionality. Clean shutters and install covers on fans not used in winter to enhance barn insulation.
Heaters: Service heaters to ensure they operate efficiently. Check settings to prevent overheating and unnecessary heat loss.
Additional steps include draining water systems and checking insulation in the attic to ensure no heat escapes. By following this checklist, farmers can prevent issues that might compromise the barn’s environment and the pigs' health during winter.
Proactive maintenance not only supports animal welfare but also contributes to overall farm productivity by optimizing operational efficiency.
For further guidance, swine producers can reach out to their equipment dealers or visit specialized agricultural websites automatedproduction.com. for more resources.
Photo Credit: producer inspecting curtain
Categories: National