Incubation Expert Please - Mildew Issue - Setting New Batch Today...

[dwdoc]

I am prepping my home-made incubator for a second round. I just finished a hatch yesterday.

When I pulled water tray out, an aluminum pie tin, from the last hatch it had mildew in the bottom. I believe this may have caused part the problem I had with my last batch.

I have tossed the old pan and will be using a new water pan for the next batch.

I was using Distilled water and I am wondering if, perhaps, the distilled water allowed the mildew to grow as it is not chlorinated like my tap water.

What caused it in the first place? How do I avoid this issue again? Is there something I can add to the water to prevent the mildew but won't harm a developing embryo?

I am setting some valuable (at least to me) eggs today and need answers.

Thank you for your assistance.

Darel (AKA: dwdoc)

 

[Emmalion]

I would soak your pan in 1 part bleach 10 parts water and then clean it really good before putting it back in. You may also want to try tossing it in the oven for a little while at a nice high temp to kill off any bacteria that may be lingering.

Both should kill the mildew and I know bleach is a good one for it. Just have to make sure the pan is free of any bleach before placing back into the incubator.


I'm no expert on incubators but I know mildew

 

[dwdoc]

Quote:
Thank you. I am tossing the old pan. I just edited my original posting to reflect that.

Thank you for your input. That's why I like this site; people are always willing to help others.

 

[Emmalion]

May I suggest putting your new pan into the oven for 30 mins at 350 just to make sure there is nothing you are bringing into the incubator.

Best of luck with the new pan.

 

[easttxchick]

Between hatches, I like to clean the ENTIRE incubator out with some bleach water and then let it sit out in the sun for a few hours.
You never know what kind of nasty stuff is lingering in there from the last hatch.
Good luck with your new hatch!

 

[jeepers210]

Make sure you are not adding too much water. It needs to evaporate slowly. Standing water will form a slime. Also make sure you have vent at the top. Good luck!