Those with Sportsman

[retiredwithchicks]

Just got a new Sportsman for my birthday and in hatching time period at this time. I filled with water during lock down and it only lasted 2 days then had to break lockdown and add water. What am I doing wrong? Is there a way other than buying to automatic system to add water without opening the bator. Do you use the hole in the side where the automatic system goes?

 

[Paganbird]

I use the hole in the side to run oxygen tubing into the water pan. I also put a big sponge in the water pan so that it can hold more water. That way, you don't have to open it at all - just fill from the outside. I use nasal cannula tubing and a 30cc syringe... not that hard to get if you have any medical/vet acquaintances.
If you do have to open the door, turn off the fan (or unplug it) before you open the door to keep the fan from blowing your warm air out the door.

 

[Paganbird]

Oh, yeah...
Congratulations on your new 'bator!