Do you need electricty to run these?

Ritchie Thrifty King units, when used in the right application, do not require electricity. All other units, in freezing conditions, require electricity for the heating system. Ritchie recommends electric service on any new installation, including Thrifty King installations. If heat is needed later on, the electrical service is there. WaterMaster and CattleMaster are available with constant flow for use without electricity.