First time hatcher- what are the main things I should be focusing on?

[Melissa F]

My husband brought home an incubator from work- it appears to be the Little Giant. I have it set up in my basement, and I have a temporary thermometer/hygrometer with a wire probe. I have ordered another one just to double check it since my current one is just an indoor/outdoor window weather station that we've had sitting in our window for years.
I've been reading up like crazy, and just want to know what I should really focus on for this first time. Should I be weighing eggs or candling them? How often should I be turning them? Is more often better, or should I only do 3-5 times a day since I'm going to be opening it up and letting out heat and humidity? Anything else major that I'm missing?
Thanks!

 

[Cassies1972]

You're suppose to turn them at least 3 times a day. I didn't do that the first time I used an incubator because I didn't know. I highly recommend running to Tractor Supply and getting one of the egg turners. It makes it easier and less stressful.
When the chicks start piping do not open the incubator until the last chick has had time to hatch. Because the chick will get "shrink wrapped" in the membrane inside the egg and won't be able to hatch. It's sad and stressful.
Read a lot! I didn't read enough before I started hatching eggs. I love it, even more now that I'm more knowledgeable. Good luck!