Incubator suggestions

[Mvan42]

I am new (2nd year) keeping chickens, and I am currently borrowing an little giant incubator. Hatch day is in 2 days. Exciting!!!! Babies are looking good, looks like all babies were still alive yesterday during lockdown candling. Anyway..

I am looking to buy an incubator what are your suggestions on which are good. (Holds heat and humidity levels, and are consistent). I don’t want to have to pay a lot for one no more than $200 or less. I saw some on eBay that look nice with all the features I like *turner, humility and temp. Display*. But not sure what to do. Thanks

 

[FoodFreedomNow]

I have Hova-Bator 1588s and a 2370 that fit that price range. I've also seen positive reviews (on BYC) of the Harris Farms Nurture Right 360 and the Incuview. The smallest Brinsea models may be under the price threshold, too.

There are capacity differences between the incubators I mentioned - the Hova-Bators will have the largest capacity. You can find numerous threads on the topic here. And don't forget that you'll need a separate thermometer and hygrometer, if you don't have them already (digital displays should be verified independently).

Best of luck with your hatch!

 

[UThobbyfarmer]

I have a Farm Innovators 4250. It gets the job done but is not as hands off as one would hope. You need to watch the temperature and temperature sensor like a hawk. To avoid hot spots or it dropping down beneath the Turner. Otherwise it's a champ for the price.

 

[duluthralphie]

You may want to check your area craigslist or FB farm pages and so forth. You could find a used incubator that fits your need.

Many times you can find used cabinet ones for $200 or less.

 

[ColtHandorf]

"Many times you can find used cabinet ones for $200 or less."

I wish! I'd literally kill for one at that price. The only ones within hundreds of miles are horribly abused GQF Sportsman incubators and hatchers that have been modified for emu eggs and just look terrible. And they are all priced at like $500. Which is insane...

 

[duluthralphie]

"Many times you can find used cabinet ones for $200 or less."

I wish! I'd literally kill for one at that price. The only ones within hundreds of miles are horribly abused GQF Sportsman incubators and hatchers that have been modified for emu eggs and just look terrible. And they are all priced at like $500. Which is insane...

Where you at. Next time I sell one I can take it there.

 

[Fairview01]

"Many times you can find used cabinet ones for $200 or less."

I wish! I'd literally kill for one at that price. The only ones within hundreds of miles are horribly abused GQF Sportsman incubators and hatchers that have been modified for emu eggs and just look terrible. And they are all priced at like $500. Which is insane...

Patience, using a Craigslist search engine like Tempest, determination and a willingness to take a road trip can yield the best incubators ever made for around $100. This isn't mine but I have 2 exactly like it, a model 624 that needs a top and a monster Brower 1200 egg capacity unit. Total expenditure $500. Time commitment - about 3 years, total travel 800 miles +/-.

 

[ColtHandorf]

"Where you at. Next time I sell one I can take it there."

@duluthralphie - I live in North East Texas so that'd be a looooong drive for you!

@Fairview01 - That's an awesome incubator. Of course with only one hen at the moment I don't need anything that big yet, but it sure would be nice.

 

[Fairview01]

"Where you at. Next time I sell one I can take it there."

@duluthralphie - I live in North East Texas so that'd be a looooong drive for you!

@Fairview01 - That's an awesome incubator. Of course with only one hen at the moment I don't need anything that big yet, but it sure would be nice.

Neither do I but when comparing the replacement cost of a Genesis incubator and a deal on a Leahy it becomes a matter of economics than size. Used redwood incubators appreciate in value, all others either depreciate or go to the landfill.

My redwood is in an unheated garage right at the door. It's been getting down to mid 30s the last couple days. The Leahy has been rock solid on temp. I wouldn't try that with any other incubator.

 

[Mvan42]

Thanks everyone I will look into those suggestions.. As for now I am waiting for hatch day.. I have one egg wiggling now.. I have also heard a few chirps..