Optimizing Egg Laying Performance: A Practical Guide to Temperature and Humidity Control in Layer Hen Houses

How to Control Temperature & Humidity in Layer Houses for Optimal Egg Production

For poultry farmers aiming to maintain high egg yields year-round, effective temperature and humidity control is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Studies show that when temperatures exceed 27°C (80°F), hens experience heat stress, which can reduce daily egg production by up to 15%. In extreme cases, this drops to as low as 5 eggs per hen per week from an ideal 6–7 eggs.

Why Airflow Matters More Than You Think

The key to managing heat stress lies in smart air circulation—not just cooling the house, but creating a consistent airflow pattern that removes hot air while bringing in fresh oxygen-rich air. Our customers at large-scale layer farms in Henan Province report that switching from traditional cross-ventilation to side-wall intake + top exhaust systems improved ventilation efficiency by 35%, reducing peak internal temps by 3–4°C during summer months.

This system works best when combined with properly spaced H-type layer cages—like those from Zhengzhou Livi Machinery—which allow uniform airflow between tiers without blocking natural draft paths. The result? Lower respiratory disease rates and more stable laying performance even in humid conditions.

Durability Meets Performance: Aluminum-Zinc Coated Components

Many farmers overlook the importance of material durability in climate control equipment. Corrosion from ammonia buildup or moisture can shorten the lifespan of fans, ducts, and cage frames by up to 50% within two years if untreated. That’s why our H-type cages feature aluminum-zinc alloy coating—an industry-leading solution proven to extend service life by over 8 years under continuous operation.

A case study from a 10,000-hen farm in Shandong shows how this technology reduced maintenance downtime by 60% compared to standard galvanized steel units, directly contributing to higher egg consistency and fewer replacements.

Monitoring Made Simple: Daily Checks That Pay Off

You don’t need expensive sensors to manage your environment effectively. A basic thermometer-hygrometer placed at bird level (not ceiling height) gives real-time readings on critical thresholds:

• Optimal temp range: 18–24°C (64–75°F)
• Relative humidity: 55–65%
• Max acceptable temp: 27°C (80°F) — beyond this, productivity drops sharply

Weekly cleaning of inlet vents and fan blades prevents dust accumulation that reduces airflow efficiency by up to 20%. These small actions add up quickly—especially when you’re targeting consistent egg quality and weight.

As one experienced breeder put it: “You can’t fix what you don’t measure.” Whether you’re running a 500-hen unit or a 50,000-hen facility, consistent monitoring builds confidence—and profits.