incubator ventilation?

[joyous]

I would like to know how much ventilation does a home made cooler inci that is approximately 15 x 28 x 16. I have two holes on either side that are 1 1/4 inches that I can open or shut. There are 4 tiny holes in the top, all under 1/8 inch. When I am going into lock down, I will take out the pole for turning them and that leaves two more 1 inch holes. My question is: for the first 18 days, should I have one or two 1 1/4 inch holes open. The first time I used it I opened both the whole time with a 75 % hatch rate. I am expecting some treasured Buckeye eggs and just want to know the skinny on ventilation!

 

[spoggy]

Having ventilation holes open or closed will depend on your humidity levels. If you can maintain 45% humidity or slightly higher during incubation with 2 wide open, then you're probably good to go. During lockdown you'll need to boost it to around 70-75%. You'll still need ventilation, so you need to experiment. I solve some ventilation issues on a wooden incubator by drilling a 3/8" hole through the box and locating my circulation fan over it. That way I'm always drawing in fresh air and can control using covers on the exhaust.

 

[joyous]

Thanks! I am at about 50-55 % with both holes open, and I have more pans I can add water to at lock down!