Here it is right now in pseudo lockdown (I'm a "hands on" gal, what can I say?)
Bulbs are set in the top and I didn't use the standard sockets most of the DIY vids show. I used these and just screwed them into the lid and then only drilled a hole for the cord to come through the lid:
I am wiring my cabin so I have no lack of 12 and 14 gauge wire to use.
My thermostat is an Inkbird C206 10A ... again only a hole for the sensor through the lid.. I would consider getting one with higher ampage and plugs next time for reasons mentioned below:
PC fan wired the same as most of the DIY videos. I let it rest in a corner pointed up initially but at lock down taped it closer to the top to keep chicks out of it.
Pros:
Cleaning will be simply removing the lid and screen without worrying about keeping electrical bits dry unlike the styros were things are built into the sides.
I can just swap lids to go from hatcher to brooder... and put the hatcher lid on another bin to start a new hatch.
It has two issues in it's current set up.
1, I got eggs before I got the floor framed in so the screen they are sitting on sags a bit in the center. I have a small toaster oven sized basting rack under it so they get air from the bottom. While everyone fluffs out I'll need to keep an eye on them to be sure no one gets tucked into the sides though they shouldn't.
2. And this is more my bator's location than the bator it self. The plastic, unlike styro is pretty reactionary to chill. So I just tossed a $5 throw over it leaving the end you see here uncovered.
As I hand turn and did so more than 3 times a day (5 usually) airflow wasn't an issue though I have vents low in the corners with two top vent holes. Temps return to stable quickly as does humidity. The tub has raised center in the bottom creating a nice shallow channel for water but I just used a bowl and sponge for the first 2 weeks to keep at 40-50%
I had a bulb go out 2nd week while I was out (Ain't that always the way?) I have the bator next to my computer which sits on one of those white plastic topped, foldable "event" tables you get at Walmart. So to help bring the heat up I put my electric oil space heater under the table.. on medium heat. The table acted as an excellent radiant heat source and brought the temp back very quickly and held it while I went BACK to town to get another bulb. A heating pad or a heat plate would be a great alternate and use for that second plug.
I'm going to be doing a second one as I am ordering 3 dozen more eggs for next week. I'll do a pic series of creation!
The first two are hatched! They grow up so fast! It seems like only 2 hours ago they were in their shells instead of chasing each other around trying to peck each other's head!
LOL
I do feel a tad bit guilty. I have been playing "chick cheep" videos for 2 days now... to encourage everyone. These two get out... NO CHICKS! And they are so tired, it's obvious they want to sleep but they can't stop looking for the other chicks.
