Can I open the incubator in first 24 hours to move thermometer?

[wordgirl]

I'm a little worried - I have two thermometers in the incubator, but none of them are level with the top of the eggs - both at least somewhat lower. Is that bad? Should I risk losing temperature to move the thermometer? I set them last night at 7. The thermometers are reading 102.2 and 101.2, on either side of the incubator beside the eggs. I'm trying for 101.5 (still-air, duck eggs).

 

[kjt135]

Should be fine unless in lockdown. Some people hand turn eggs and I know they have to remove lid to do that but I never did duck eggs just saw that on here. Anyway good luck

 

[wordgirl]

Should be fine unless in lockdown. Some people hand turn eggs and I know they have to remove lid to do that but I never did duck eggs just saw that on here. Anyway good luck

Thanks, kjt135! But doesn't turning start after 24-36 hours? Or do some people turn from the beginning?

 

[kjt135]

Didn't think about that just know they have temp. swings when they turn them. Should be alright either way bring it up to temp and then move or move before I don't think it will matter.

 

[wordgirl]

Thank you! I have heard you're supposed to disturb them as little as possible the first 24 hours, but I also don't want them at the wrong temperature. Oh, I'm not sure what to do...

 

[Nsampsel]

I would think if you don't have to move the eggs a quick dip inside to rearrange your thermometers would be fine even in the 1st 24 hrs.

 

[wordgirl]

Thanks guys! I just now dared to open it briefly to move the thermometer and to turn my digital thermometer's reading to the "exterior" probe that's right among the eggs. Yikes! Temperature was significantly higher at the top of the eggs. About a degree higher. One thermometer read almost at 103, the other at 102.3. Oh boy...and I know the temperature's been higher - right now it's at a lower point. Just adjusted the thermostat lower, hopefully everything's fine.