thermostat issues in homemade incubator

[shan04]

I bought the bi metal thermostat everyone had told me to buy for my incubator and what I'm wondering is how you set it to turn on and off at the temps you want, I know it has a knob but I'm Just confused on where to turn it for it to shut off and back on. There's no settings on the knob. And after a few trials now it won't click off at all when it gets to hot. I can't find anything online that shows me how to do this.

 

[homeschoolmama]

I'm bumping this since I'm in the process of tweaking my DIY styrobater with the same thermostat- I'm getting close but any tips would be awesome.

 

[Fred's Hens]

If you have this kind of bi metal thermostat, perhaps we can talk you through it.

 

[shan04]

Yes that's the same one I just got, although my temp stays very consistent at 99 to 100 degrees without it and only a light and fan I'd still like to have it hooked up for just in case situations.

 

[Addischicks]

I have had less fluctuations in temp by installing the light close to a corner and then installing the thermostat on the other wall of the same corner.

 

[Fred's Hens]

I also found that buying a "Y" adaptor for $2.30 at Lowes, and splitting the wattage, say a single 40 into two 25 watt bulbs or two 40 watt bulbs spread the heat pattern better over the rectangle of the box. I side benefit was that the bulb on the left, that you can see, is now only inches from the thermostat.

I also like the form hardware cloth and cage in the thermostat. It's live current and the cage provides a measure of protection so you don't brush up against it with your hands. Don't need a little tingle when you've got eggs in your hands. LOL

 

[shan04]

Ok great thanks for the info Fred...

 

[Fred's Hens]

I've decided to upgrade. Ordered this tonight from Incubator Warehouse. Incu kit. All in one.

 

[shan04]

Ooh my that's fancy, lol must of been a pretty penny.

 

[Fred's Hens]

Ooh my that's fancy, lol must of been a pretty penny.

The value of the chicks I'm hatching? Worth every penny.

Actually, it is the complete incubator, minus the box. Well, I've got boxes. For $50? well worth it. Can't hardly buy a piece of junk cheapo for $50. That's my warped mind thinking anyhow. LOL