How to Make an Incubator Out of a Refrigerator

Eggs will not hatch if not properly cared for.

If your pet or livestock lays eggs, the eggs must be put into a temperature-controlled incubator where they will remain at a steady temperature and will be protected from external dangers. A refrigerator, whether it is a small dorm unit or a full-sized appliance, is an excellent item to make into an incubator due to its efficient insulation and sturdy construction. Making an incubator out of a fridge is simple and requires only basic supplies that can be purchased at many pet and livestock shops.

Things You'll Need

• Refrigerator
• Heat tape
• Fan

Instructions

1. Move the refrigerator into a room with a stable temperature. Scrub it with a soapy water, then leave the door open and allow it to air dry completely.

2. Plug the refrigerator into an outlet if it has a functioning integrated thermometer. Turn the temperature gauge off so that it doesn't produce any cold air. Do not plug in the refrigerator if it doesn't have a built-in thermometer; instead, place a digital or mercury thermometer on one of the shelves.

3. Run heat tape on one or more of the shelves, depending on many eggs that need incubating. Set each strip of tape to a low temperature, then close the door and continuously monitor the temperature until it stabilizes in the range in which the eggs need to be incubated.

4. Place a small, low-speed fan on the bottom of the refrigerator to keep the air circulating. Put the eggs in a plastic container filled with vermiculite. Place the container on the shelf, then close the door. Check the temperature sporadically throughout the day.

References

• The University of Tennesee Martin: Large Homemade Incubators