User's Manual

AE21 GB Issue 02

3.10 Developing embryos are fairly tolerant of short term temperature drops and the user need not be

concerned about cooling that occurs when inspecting eggs. Temperatures above ideal can quickly have a

serious detrimental effect on hatch rates and must be avoided.

3.11 Once the correct temperature has been achieved the cable cover must be fitted to ensure the cable is

correctly clamped and the connections are fully protected from splashes of water. Fit the Cable Cover and

gently tighten the screw.

DO NOT ROUTINELY OPERATE THE INCUBATOR WITHOUT THE CABLE COVER IN PLACE.

ENSURE THE CABLE IS NOT CRUSHED OR PINCHED WHEN THE COVER IS FITTED.

The cover is designed to prevent splashes of water reaching the electrical socket and it clamps the cable to

prevent the connector coming loose.

3.12 Plug the cradle mains supply cable into a suitable outlet ensuring that the cable is not pulled tight. The

cradle motor will start and the incubator will begin to turn. Please note:- The turning is very slow –

taking about half an hour to turn each way.

4 Storage of Eggs

4.1 Store eggs in cool, damp conditions. Most species may be safely stored for up to 14 days before serious

reductions in hatch rates are likely. Daily turning of stored eggs also helps maintain hatchability.

4.2 Discard cracked, mis-shaped and heavily soiled eggs (if possible). Only wash soiled eggs using a brand

egg wash solution such as Brinsea Incubation Disinfectant Concentrate following the manufacturer’s

instructions. It is essential to wash eggs in solution which is significantly warmer than the egg. Bear in

mind that all solutions will remove the outer cuticle from the egg as well as the dirt and may leave the egg

at greater risk from bacterial contamination in the future.

5 Humidity and Ventilation

Short term variations in humidity are not important. The average humidity over the incubation period needs to

be near optimum to achieve the ideal weight loss. High humidity for the day or two of hatching is also important.

Beware chronic, excessive humidity.

5.1 Two factors affect incubation humidity: water evaporation within the cabinet (from eggs as well as from

additional water) and levels of ventilation. The water content of the air being drawn through the incubator

will also have an effect.