If you already own a bird bath that can handle cold temperatures, a de-icer such as the Farm Innovators Premium Cast Aluminum Birdbath De-Icer (150 watt) is the simplest fix, since it drops into the basin you already have. If you're starting from scratch, the Allied Precision 20-Inch Heated Bird Bath w/Metal Stand builds the heating element into the basin itself, so there's no separate unit to place or unplug each spring.
What's the Difference Between a Heated Bird Bath and a De-Icer?
A heated bird bath has the heating element built into the basin, so the whole unit is designed to run through winter from the start. A de-icer is a separate heating unit you place inside a bird bath you already own, which only works if that bath can tolerate the heat and the weight of standing water in freezing temperatures.
Which De-Icer Keeps Water Open in the Coldest Canadian Winters?
The Farm Innovators Premium Cast Aluminum Birdbath De-Icer runs at 150 watts and is thermostatically controlled to operate only when necessary, which Urban Nature Store's product page describes as built for "ultimate efficiency and safety." The Allied Precision 250 Watt Aluminum Bird Bath De-Icer runs hotter at 250 watts and uses multiple thermostats across a narrow heating range so the water doesn't overheat, with a large heating surface the product page says "runs cooler than conventional de-icers." The Ice Eliminator Bird Bath Heater De-Icer draws just 50 watts and is rated to keep water open down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit below zero, and its product page calls it "completely safe to handle and use, even in plastic birdbaths."
Which Heated Bird Bath Is Best for a Yard Without One Yet?
The Allied Precision 20-Inch Heated Bird Bath w/Metal Stand pairs a 20-inch basin with a 29-inch metal stand and runs on 150 watts. Its heating element is hidden beneath the surface and is thermostatically controlled to cycle the water between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius, and the product page says the basin is "fully tested in sub-zero conditions and will not crack."
How Many Watts Do You Need for a Canadian Winter?
A 50-watt unit such as the Ice Eliminator Bird Bath Heater De-Icer is rated down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit below zero, which covers most Canadian winter nights. For a larger basin or a yard that regularly sees colder snaps, a 150-watt or 250-watt unit such as the Farm Innovators Premium Cast Aluminum Birdbath De-Icer or the Allied Precision 250 Watt Aluminum Bird Bath De-Icer gives more heating power to keep a wider surface area open.
Is It Safe to Run a Bird Bath Heater Outdoors?
Every de-icer and heated bird bath on this list is thermostatically controlled, which means it draws power only when the water actually needs warming rather than running continuously. Urban Nature Store's own guidance on winter bird baths recommends checking a heated bath more often than an unheated one, since the open water evaporates faster and needs refilling.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Farm Innovators Premium Cast Aluminum Birdbath De-Icer if you want a dependable mid-wattage de-icer backed by a three-year warranty, the longest of the three de-icers here. Choose the Ice Eliminator Bird Bath Heater De-Icer if you want the lowest running cost and your winters rarely drop far below freezing. Choose the Allied Precision 20-Inch Heated Bird Bath w/Metal Stand if you don't yet own a bird bath and want the heater built in from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a De-Icer Work in Any Bird Bath I Already Own?
Not always. A de-icer only works safely in a bird bath rated to handle the heat and the weight of water that stays liquid through freezing temperatures, so check your bath's material before adding one, particularly with thinner plastic or resin basins.
How Many Watts Does the Ice Eliminator Bird Bath Heater De-Icer Use?
50 watts. It's rated to keep water open down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit below zero, according to its product page.
What's the Warranty on the Farm Innovators Premium Cast Aluminum Birdbath De-Icer?
Three years. That's the longest warranty among the de-icers covered here, compared to one year for both the Allied Precision 250 Watt Aluminum Bird Bath De-Icer and the Ice Eliminator Bird Bath Heater De-Icer.
How Big Is the Basin on the Allied Precision 20-Inch Heated Bird Bath w/Metal Stand?
20 inches across and 4.25 inches deep, set on a 29-inch metal stand that's included with the bath.
Will a Heated Bird Bath Need More Water Refills Than an Unheated One?
Yes. Open water evaporates faster than ice, so Urban Nature Store recommends checking a heated bath more often through winter and keeping a container of fresh water on hand for refills.
