Having the best egg incubator allows you to not only hatch a large number of eggs but also control and prepare for each batch of hatchlings. There are excellent incubators for hatching various types of eggs, including quail, chicken, ducks, and even reptiles. However, incubators are not cheap, so ensuring your investment will work for your needs is important. While the capacity often determines the price of an incubator, you must also ensure the construction and features suit the eggs you’re hatching and support a smooth hatching process. Hatching is serious and sometimes messy work, so here are 10 essential things to consider before you buy egg incubators online and get into the egg-hatching game.
1. Capacity
You should use your incubator at full capacity to achieve the best hatch rate. That’s why selecting one that accommodates all your eggs without being underused is essential. Purchasing an incubator that is too small may lead to overcrowding or delayed incubation, which reduces hatchability. For example, eggs that remain unincubated for over 10 days experience a significant drop in hatchability. Larger cabinet incubators typically come with better controls, egg turners, candling lights, and even separate hatching chambers. For smaller needs, such as hatching 12 to 20 chicken eggs or up to 50 quail eggs, a high-quality tabletop or mini incubator is a great choice.
2. Air Circulation
Eggs need proper ventilation to exchange carbon dioxide and oxygen through their shells. Forced-air incubators with fans generally achieve better hatch rates than still-air models, which rely on passive ventilation via a few holes. If your budget only allows for a still-air incubator, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal airflow.
3. Accuracy of Controls
Precision is crucial when hatching eggs. Humidity levels should be adjustable without disrupting incubation, and alarms should alert you to unstable conditions. Temperature control is particularly vital—even a change as small as 0.25°C can jeopardise your eggs. Computerised controls are generally more reliable than wafer-controlled thermostats, which can fluctuate. Always double-check conditions with your own thermometer and hygrometer to ensure the accuracy of the incubator’s built-in sensors.
4. Power Retention and Backup
Power outages are beyond your control, but their impact can be mitigated by choosing an incubator with power retention features. High-quality forced-air incubators can maintain stable conditions longer during blackouts. For sensitive eggs, such as reptile eggs, it’s wise to invest in a backup power solution, such as a connection to DC power, solar panels, or alkaline batteries.
5. Hatching Space
Hatching doesn’t occur simultaneously; some eggs may hatch up to 72 hours after the first ones. Many incubators allow you to remove egg racks and convert the space into a hatching chamber. If you frequently hatch large batches, consider a cabinet incubator with a dedicated hatching chamber to streamline the process.
6. Automatic Turning
An automatic egg turner saves you from manually turning eggs multiple times daily, reducing the disruption risk. Check whether your incubator includes an automatic turner and whether it’s reliable. Some models even allow you to customise the turning frequency. Always ensure the turner is working correctly before leaving it unattended.
7. Durability
Durability is a key consideration when investing in an incubator. While some budget models made from Styrofoam or flimsy materials may suffice for short-term use, they’re prone to damage and wear. Choose an incubator with a robust build and high-quality internal components, such as egg holders and thermostats, to ensure long-term reliability.
8. Ease of Setup and Operation
An incubator should be straightforward to set up and operate. Complicated setups, such as assembling multiple chambers or adjusting hard-to-reach components, can lead to mistakes and losses. Look for an incubator with intuitive controls and a user-friendly design.
9. Additional Features
Some incubators come with extras like egg trays, candling lights, thermometers, and hygrometers. If these features are not built-in, you may need to purchase them separately, especially for non-standard eggs. Consider the total cost of these additions when selecting an incubator.
10. Cleaning and Maintenance
Hatching is a messy process, and a clean incubator is essential for successful subsequent hatches. Choose a model that is easy to disassemble and clean. Avoid incubators made of difficult to sanitise materials, such as Styrofoam, as they can harbour bacteria and compromise future hatchings.
Investing in the right egg incubator is vital for successful hatching. Considering these 10 factors will ensure you make an informed decision whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional breeder. Each feature plays a role in optimising your hatch rates, from capacity and durability to power backup and cleaning ease.
Ready to start your hatching journey? Explore a wide range of options and buy egg incubators online today! With the right incubator, you can achieve hatching success and bring your hatchlings into the world with ease. If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to share it with others who might benefit from it!