Got my bator. Now what?

[greatchicken]

I just bought a hovabator 1602. It should be here sometime in the next week. I want to try some practice hatches before I try hatching some more expensive eggs like BCM. I was thinking some RIR or some Black Jersey Giants (my wife wants some of these). Is this a good idea or should I just go for broke?

Thank

 

[ranchhand]

I highly recommend a test hatch, so you can get the temps and humidity stabilized and also just get used to it yourself!

Congrats on your new bator!

 

[Sir Birdaholic]

I agree with ranchhand!

 

[sonjab314]

Can't go wrong with a Hova. I have the 1588 and I LOVE it. I'm am certain that you will be happy with yours. I agree with everyone else. Try a test run even if its only like 6 eggs, just to be sure everything is set right. Congratulations

 

[A.T. Hagan]

Build a brooder. THEN set your eggs.

 

[gavinandallison]

I got a 1602 for Christmas, set 12 eggs, took 3 out @ lockdown and lost 2 others, but have 7 wonderful Silkie chicks. Test run the incubator for a few days to set the temp and humidity. The wafer is a little tricky to get use to. I also purchased a Springfield temp and humidity readout from Walmart - $7, which was very accurate. I have since upgraded by adding a fan to circulate the air, and also then bought a 1588 so I can use my 1602 for lockdown, keeping the main incubator clean.

This is VERY ADDICTIVE, I am looking to set some Barred Rock eggs next week along with some Orpington eggs too.......

Good luck, you will have fun!

 

[greatchicken]

I bought mine from eBay and comes with a fan kit, egg turner kit, and separate meter for humidity and temperature. I cannot wait to get it and start using it.