Reducing ammonia odor in chicken coops
The pungent smell of ammonia or toxic gases in poultry houses can cause irritation to the eye membranes and respiratory system. This is one of the reasons why chickens experience stress, lose appetite, cough or sneeze, have nasal discharge, and become more susceptible to diseases. Broilers and laying hens are more sensitive to ammonia than pigs or cattle .
Ammonia contamination on the litter floor—whether from feed, feces, or urine—combined with moisture and rising temperatures, along with natural microbial decomposition, often results in a strong ammonia odor. If left to accumulate over time, the level of ammonia will continue to increase, affecting the health of both chickens and farm workers.
There are several ways to reduce ammonia odor in poultry houses, with the main methods being environmental and ventilation management. Proper ventilation, such as installing fans or an effective exhaust system, helps remove accumulated ammonia gas. Controlling humidity within the house is also essential to reduce ammonia formation from chicken manure.
Feed and Water Management
A balanced diet: Providing feed with appropriate protein balance helps reduce the amount of ammonia produced from chicken manure.
Clean water: Supplying clean water and preventing leakage helps reduce humidity in the poultry house.
Use of Chemicals or Biological Agents
Chemical use: Chemicals such as zinc oxide and ammonium bicarbonate can help reduce ammonia levels in poultry houses.
Microbial use: Beneficial microorganisms, such as probiotic bacteria that can break down ammonia, help decrease ammonia accumulation in poultry houses.
Manure Management
Regular collection and disposal: Frequently collecting and removing chicken manure from the house helps reduce ammonia buildup.
Litter materials: Using absorbent bedding materials like sawdust or straw helps reduce moisture and ammonia formation.
House design: Well-designed poultry houses with good ventilation and easy-to-clean features help minimize ammonia accumulation.
Integrating these methods can significantly and effectively reduce ammonia odors in poultry houses.
Ammonia Sensor
An ammonia gas sensor for poultry houses.
Suitable for installation in poultry barns.
Used to detect the level of ammonia gas in the air inside the barn.
When ammonia levels rise beyond a safe threshold, the system automatically activates ventilation fans to reduce ammonia concentration in time—before it affects the health of the chickens.
• Input Voltage: 12 VDC
• Power Consumption : < 10 watts
• Output Voltage: 0-10 VDC
• Output Impedance: 16 Ohms .
• Ammonia Range: 0-100 ppm.
• Operating Temperature: -25 to +70°C
• Accuract: 0-100 ppm +/-3% of Reading
• Sensor Element Type: MEMS
• Max. Cable Length: 150 Meter