Individual pig water consumption varies from 0.5 gallons per day for a weaned pig to nearly 10 gallons per day for a lactating sow. To ensure that each pig receives the proper amount of water, it is important to provide a constant supply of fresh water at the appropriate flow rate for the stage of production. Water flow rates that are too high increase spillage and wastage, while too low water flow rates can reduce pig performance.

For most water nipple designs, the recommended water pressure should be between 20 and 40 psi. Both water pressure and nipple orifice size can be adjusted to achieve the target water flow rate.

Flow rates can be easily checked by timing how long it takes to fill a container of known volume, such as an empty water bottle or cup. About 10% of drinkers should be checked weekly for proper flow rate, especially during warm weather when pigs are drinking more water. Regularly flush drinking lines to remove deposits and build-up in the drinking lines, as over time these can reduce the available pipe area for water flow and potentially reduce water quality or flow rates.

Additional Resources:

Water in Swine Nutrition

Water Recommendations and Systems for Swine

NC State Monthly Newsletters

Source: Suzanne Leonard, who is solely responsible for the information provided, and wholly owns the information. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.