1602N Thermal Air Temp Wafer/Temp Issues

[Lhubbard]

I got a Hova Bator second hand, seller said it was used just once. Thankfully I have been testing it before any eggs have arrived. Im a newbie but its been awful trying to get this thing set to correct temp. We will be getting a half dozen Silkie eggs in a couple weeks. Anyways is the Wafer supposed to spin when I turn knob? I will adjust down or up and the fluctuations are about 5-10 degrees. Maybe im turning too much or im thinking maybe I need a new Wafer? Should I turn until the light goes off or?? I think I have a good understading of how it expands and eveything looks in good condition. I also noticed that the temp drops dramatically when I open. Seems like if I turn eggs by hand and the temps fluxuate like that 3x a day that could be bad. And last thing is it worth it to get a fan? I dont want to shell out all the money for a new wafer, turner and fan if the core of it wont even hold temp! Advice?

 

[Lhubbard]

Ok I took it apart and understand the wafer should turn. Im guessing to problem solve I should start by replacing wafer? Or should I just ditch this whole set up and get another small incubator with fan, egg turner, etc?

 

[fire370]

It’s hard to explain the wafer but they are very simple and reliable. Counterclockwise to raise the temp and clockwise to lower it. I have never seen a wafer with 5-10 degrees fluctuation. They either work or they don’t. You need to let that incubator set and run probably 6-8 hrs with a verified accurate thermometer. Then start making slight adjustments to the wafer and waiting at least an hour to make the next adjustment. I’m talking like 1/8 turns until you get close to where you want to be. What are you using for a thermometer/hygrometer?

 

[Lhubbard]

The Wafer seems slightly wonky or uneven on one side so I think replacing it may solve the problem. I have 6 different thermometers in there, every different kind I had haha they are all reading very close so thats not the issue. I have however been turning more than 1/8th tho, last temp was 106 I turned about 3 whole rotations about an hour ago and its only down to 104. Ive had it running for 4 days now trying to tweak. Ill order a new Wafer and try smaller adjustments in the meantime.

 

[Lhubbard]

While im ordering things, should I order a fan? Im in California. We have been a little wet but temps have been in the 60s. Bator is in a bedroom not near drafts or heater vent.

 

[Lhubbard]

I dont know if this pic will help anything but thought it couldnt hurt. Its been a couple hours and still at 104 and light is still on even after multiple turns.

 

[Lhubbard]

One more.

 

[fire370]

Looks right. Since you know that you got 2 degrees the last time, go a couple more full turns clockwise. Once you get a little closer, drop down until you like it. That wafer looks plenty fine.

 

[Lhubbard]

Ok thanks will do!

 

[Lhubbard]

I played a little more yesterday and actually adjusted the wafer small turns by turning the wafer itself then tightening and it worked and has held 99.9 temp perfectly since last night. I ordered a turner and fan cause I really dont want any issues so will re adjust once those are installed. Thanks again for your help and reasurrance I was about ready to ditch the whole thing!