I have a total of 3 thermometers in use. The one that came with the incubator (LG) is sitting at "floor-level", so on top of the turner. I doubt the accuracy and speed of temp change on this one, but it gives me a point of reference. I also have an Accurite weather station to measure temp and humidity. The temp is off by about 3 degrees (3 whole degrees!!!). For accuracy, I use a Brinsea Spot-Check, made specifically for use in incubators. It has a much tighter window of reading and is very responsive to change. The next time I hatch, I plan to find a water wiggler and put a probe in that. I love the idea of having a better feel for the interior egg temp!
As for stabilizing the temperature, the key for me has actually been leaving my a/c vents open. Alot of peeps on the boards say this is a no-no, but you have to find what works for your situation. In my first hatch, I closed them...thinking that there would be a draft created. Essentially, I shut all of the hot air in the room and had temp spikes that I could not account for. Leaving them open this go 'round (because I had chicks in a brooder who needed some air flow), I haven't had nearly the issues with my incubator, steady temps, lower average temps, and higher humidity (easier to control). Go figure!
As for stabilizing the temperature, the key for me has actually been leaving my a/c vents open. Alot of peeps on the boards say this is a no-no, but you have to find what works for your situation. In my first hatch, I closed them...thinking that there would be a draft created. Essentially, I shut all of the hot air in the room and had temp spikes that I could not account for. Leaving them open this go 'round (because I had chicks in a brooder who needed some air flow), I haven't had nearly the issues with my incubator, steady temps, lower average temps, and higher humidity (easier to control). Go figure!
