I am getting some rescue duck eggs next weekend and so I decided to start this thread so that I can post questions I might have. I have successfully hatched three duck eggs with a heat lamp in the past.
An incubator is much more of a choice, since it not only maintains constant temperature, but also provides needed humidity levels, (that are different from ambient), and many incubators , also turn the eggs.
Yes indeed, I have read posts where peeps made use of electric frying pans that were set on low temperature settings, and hatched out chicks.
I suggest if possible, get, or borrow an incubator, and your success rate will be much improved.
You can make your own incubator on a shoestring. (little money outlay)
A Styrofoam cooler, and a 40 watt incandescent bulb. A dimmer switch to adjust energy input, and thermometers. A sponge wet and placed inside for humidity. You would need to turn eggs inside manually.