An incubator secures infants and keeps them safe under controlled temperature and space until they develop their vital organs. In this article, we are focusing on chicken egg incubators.
An egg incubator is an electrical machine with a fan and a heater. It is used to keep fertile eggs at a controlled temperature during the typical 21-day period until they hatch.
This machine has different sizes and volumes of eggs it can hold to keep warm and hatch. Every poultry farmer ought to prioritize having this incubator to maximize production.
Due to the rapid growth in poultry farming in Kenya, the demand for suitable structures and machines has risen to increase productivity. Many farmers are going for egg incubators to meet their production goals and increase sales.
The following are some of the considerations a farmer ought to look into when purchasing these machines;
Egg capacity
Different machines come with various capacities according to their prices. Therefore, a farmer should consider the volume of content the incubator can hold to determine whether it can meet its production goals.
Accurate thermometer
An egg incubator requires accurate control of temperature. For the eggs to hatch in and adequately time, you have to ensure the machine you buy has reliable temperature control by checking its thermometer accuracy.
Lifespan
The lifespan check is good, considering how long the machine can last with active usage. This factor will help me prepare a budget and plan for buying the next one. Also, inquire about its spare parts and their costs. This enables a farmer to protect the machine’s viability.
Backup power
The ability to preserve power in case of an electricity blackout also determines the incubators price in Kenya. It’s suitable to budget for a reliable incubator that keeps babies warm during electricity hiccups.
Brand
Different manufacturing companies are producing these machines. A farmer needs to research the viability of each brand and come up with the one making the best quality, efficient machines.
Warranty
Buy an incubator that has a written agreement with the manufacturer. This agreement should outline that they will replace or repair it in the event of a malfunction. The warranty should have a fair due date.
Labor demand
When buying one, the amount of labor required when installing and operating the machine should also be considered. It should have a user manual that outlines, step by step, its management. Some egg incubators are automated with self-disinfecting UV lamps.
Ventilation
A quality egg incubator should have good airflow in and out. That’s why you should ensure it has a fan to help control and maintain the required temperature for the eggs to hatch.
After-sales services
When buying these machines from a dealer, please find out the deal’s benefits in terms of after-sales services. Some offer free transportation, while others help install it for you. Also, find out about the spare parts and repairs provided as part of after-sales services.
Hatching space
Hatching space is one of the critical factors to consider when purchasing an incubator. It should have enough space to accommodate 1/3 of the eggs as they hatch. This helps protect the chicks from suffocating.
Conclusion
This article has outlined various factors to consider when purchasing an egg incubator. A farmer can use these considerations to budget and come up with a good
