Hatching Chickens: Still Air VS Circulated Air Incubators

Hatching poultry is a rewarding experience for many farmers and hobbyists, but choosing the right type of incubator can be a crucial decision.

One of the main decisions is whether to use a still air or a circulated air incubator.

In this post, we will explore the differences between these two types of incubators and their respective advantages.

What are Still Air Incubators?

A still-air incubator is a basic type of incubator that does not have a fan to circulate the air. This means that the temperature and humidity inside the incubator can vary depending on the location of the eggs. In general, the temperature at the top of the incubator will be slightly higher than the temperature at the bottom.

The heating element in a still-air incubator is usually located at the bottom of the incubator. As the element heats up, the warm air rises and creates a temperature gradient inside the incubator. This gradient can result in slightly different temperatures at different levels of the incubator. Vents on a still-air incubator are usually located at the top of the incubator. These vents allow for air circulation and help regulate the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels inside the incubator.

Advantages of Still Air Incubators

1. Cost: Still-air incubators are typically less expensive than circulated air incubators. They are a good option for those on a budget who want to hatch a small number of eggs.
2. Simplicity: Since still-air incubators do not have a fan, they are generally easier to operate and maintain than circulated air incubators. They require less upkeep and are less likely to have technical problems.
3. Better for certain types of eggs: Some types of eggs, such as quail eggs, may do better in a still-air incubator because they do not require as much air circulation as chicken eggs.
4. Quieter operation: Still air incubators do not have a fan, which means they operate more quietly compared to circulated air incubators. This can be an advantage for those who want to avoid noisy incubators.
5. More natural incubation environment: Still-air incubators simulate the natural incubation environment more closely compared to circulated air incubators. This is because in nature, there is no fan to circulate the air around the eggs. Some believe that this can lead to a more natural hatching process and healthier chicks.
6. More compact size: Still air incubators are generally more compact compared to circulated air incubators, which can be advantageous for those with limited space or who need to move the incubator around.

What are Circulated Air Incubators?

Circulated air incubators, also known as forced air incubators, have a fan that circulates the air inside the incubator that’s located on top of the heating element. This helps distribute heat and moisture evenly throughout the incubator, ensuring that all the eggs receive the same conditions for optimal hatching. Vents are also used on circulated air incubators for air exchange and to help regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.

Advantages of Circulated Air Incubators

1. More efficient: The fan in circulated air incubators helps maintain a consistent temperature and humidity throughout the incubator. This means that they are more efficient at hatching eggs and can handle a larger number of eggs at once.
2. Higher hatch rate: Because of the consistent temperature and humidity, circulated air incubators tend to have a higher hatch rate than still air incubators. This can be especially important for commercial hatcheries or those looking to maximize their hatching success.
3. Greater accuracy: Circulated air incubators often have digital temperature and humidity controls, which allows for greater accuracy and precision in maintaining optimal conditions for egg hatching.
4. Higher egg capacity: Circulated air incubators are typically larger than still-air incubators and can accommodate a higher number of eggs. This can be advantageous for those looking to hatch a larger number of eggs.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision between a still air or a circulated air incubator will depend on the needs and goals of the poultry farmer or hobbyist. The Still-air incubators may be a better option for those on a budget or who want to hatch a small number of eggs. Circulated air incubators are a better option for those looking for greater efficiency, a higher hatch rate, and the ability to hatch a larger amount of eggs. Both types of incubators have their advantages and can successfully hatch healthy chicks when used properly.