Before we even think about incubating eggs, the first step—and arguably the most important—is choosing the right incubator. With so many options available online and in farm stores, it can feel overwhelming. But if you’re serious about hatching healthy chicks, selecting the proper incubator based on its success rate and build quality is key. 

 Why Incubator Quality Matters 

The best incubators typically offer a hatching success rate between 80% to 95%. You may come across affordable DIY incubators on various online platforms, but be cautious. Many of these are made with cheap materials like tetra foam used for fish tanks, and low-quality Chinese temperature regulators. These models often require manual egg turning and lack consistency in maintaining the correct humidity and temperature—two vital elements for a successful hatch.  

In fact, relying on such DIY incubators may leave you disappointed after 20 days with no chicks in sight. That’s why investing in a reliable, tested incubator is well worth it. 

 Understanding the Types of Egg Incubators 

Before selecting an incubator, it helps to know the different types and how they operate: 

 1. Still Air Incubators 

Commonly found in farm supply stores, these incubators have a heating element at the top and feature viewing windows and ventilation holes. However, they lack a fan, which means the air isn’t evenly distributed. This can lead to uneven temperatures, affecting hatch rates. Most still air incubators also require manual egg turning and need a separate hygrometer to measure humidity. 

 2. Circulated-Air (Forced-Air) Incubators 

These incubators are equipped with a built-in fan that circulates air, ensuring even temperature and oxygen distribution. They offer more consistent hatching conditions and are recommended for beginners and experienced hatchers alike. 

 3. Gravity-Flow (Gravity-Ventilated) Incubators 

These don’t use a fan. Instead, they rely on gravity for air circulation. Fresh air enters through lower vents while warm, stale air exits through upper vents. While simple in design, they can still be effective with proper monitoring. 

 4. Kerosene Incubators 

Ideal for regions with unreliable power, kerosene incubators use heat from kerosene burners. They require manual adjustments to maintain stable temperatures and typically offer a 75% hatch rate. Great for remote farms but demand careful management. 

 What is Egg Turning? 

Egg turning is essential for a successful hatch. In nature, a hen turns her eggs with her beak to prevent the yolks from sticking to the shell’s inner membrane and to ensure proper embryo development. In incubators, we mimic this process. 

If your incubator doesn’t have an automatic egg turner, you’ll need to turn the eggs manually at least three times a day. To help keep track, mark one side of each egg with an “X” and the opposite with an “O” using a grease pencil. Always turn the eggs side to side, not end to end. Remember: the pointed end should always be slightly downward, never upward. 

Choosing the Right Eggs for Incubation 

Now that you’ve picked your incubator, it’s time to find the right eggs. 

You can collect them from your own flock, or purchase them. If you’re using a medium or large capacity incubator, we recommend buying fertile hatching eggs from a certified hatchery. Why? Because hatcheries that aren’t certified may provide eggs from flocks that carry hereditary diseases, which can be passed to the developing embryos. 

To give your chicks the best start in life, always go with reputable, disease-free sources for your hatching eggs. 

Final Thoughts from ChickCoop® 

When it comes to hatching eggs, your success begins long before the first pip in the shell—it starts with choosing the right tools. A quality incubator with a high hatch rate, proper turning system, and temperature control will make all the difference. 

At ChickCoop®, we’re more than just a Chicken Company, writing interesting blogs about them– we’re your trusted partner in building a modernized, sustainable and profitable farm. From breed selection to buy-back support, feed guidance, and modern farm management tips, we ensure farmers like you achieve the best results and profits.

Call us today to discuss your farming needs
📧 Email us at: write@chickcoop.in
📞 Call us: +91-9939209699

At ChickCoop®, we believe in doing things right the first time—because healthy chicks start with smart choices. 

Happy hatching!