1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your WilTec Automatic Incubator 72 Eggs. Please read these instructions carefully before use and retain them for future reference. This incubator is designed for the controlled incubation of various poultry eggs, including chicken, quail, and duck, as well as reptile eggs, providing an optimal environment for successful hatching.
2. Safety Instructions
- Ensure the incubator is placed on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, drafts, and extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Do not immerse the unit in water or other liquids.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Always unplug the incubator from the power outlet before cleaning or performing maintenance.
- Use only the specified voltage (230 Volts) and power (150 Watts).
- Do not operate the incubator if the power cord or plug is damaged.
- Avoid opening the incubator frequently during the incubation period to maintain stable temperature and humidity.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present and undamaged upon unpacking:
- WilTec Automatic Incubator (Main Unit)
- Egg Trays
- Water Channels
- Power Cable
- Instruction Manual
- Egg Candler
- Polystyrene Transport Protection (can be used as additional thermal insulation)
4. Product Overview
The WilTec Automatic Incubator features a transparent plastic casing for clear visibility of the incubation process. It includes an electronic control panel for precise temperature and humidity management, an automatic egg turning mechanism, and integrated water channels for humidity control.
5. Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Retain the polystyrene protection as it can be used for additional insulation.
- Placement: Position the incubator on a flat, stable surface in a room with a consistent ambient temperature (ideally between 20-25°C). Avoid areas with drafts, direct sunlight, or significant temperature fluctuations.
- Water Channels: Fill the water channels at the bottom of the incubator with distilled or demineralized water. This is crucial for maintaining proper humidity levels. Do not overfill.
- Egg Trays: Place the egg trays securely inside the incubator.
- Power Connection: Connect the power cable to the incubator and then plug it into a suitable 230V power outlet.
- Pre-heating: Turn on the incubator and allow it to run for at least 2-3 hours to stabilize the internal temperature and humidity before placing eggs inside. This allows you to verify settings and ensure stable operation.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Egg Preparation and Placement
- Select fresh, fertile eggs that are clean and free from cracks or deformities.
- Place the eggs gently into the egg trays. The incubator can hold up to 72 standard chicken eggs. Adjust egg quantity based on size for other species.
6.2. Temperature and Humidity Settings
The incubator features an electronic control panel to set and monitor temperature and humidity. The temperature can be precisely adjusted between 25°C and 39.5°C.
- Refer to the specific incubation requirements for the type of eggs you are hatching. Typical chicken egg incubation temperature is around 37.5°C.
- The LED display will show the current temperature and humidity. Use the control buttons on the panel to adjust the target temperature.
- Humidity is primarily controlled by the water level in the channels. During the first 18 days of incubation for chicken eggs, aim for 50-60% humidity. Increase to 65-75% during the last 3 days (hatching phase).
- An alarm will sound if the temperature deviates significantly from the set target.
6.3. Automatic Egg Turning
The incubator is equipped with an automatic egg turning mechanism that regularly tilts the eggs forward and backward along their longitudinal axis. This simulates the natural turning motion of a brooding hen and prevents the embryo from sticking to the shell.
- The turning intervals are programmable via the control panel.
- Important: 3 to 4 days before the expected hatch date, deactivate the automatic turning system. Eggs should not be turned during the final hatching phase.
6.4. Incubation Process
- After pre-heating and setting the desired temperature and humidity, place the eggs in the trays.
- Monitor the temperature and humidity levels regularly using the LED display. Adjust water levels as needed to maintain humidity.
- Avoid opening the incubator unnecessarily to prevent temperature and humidity drops. Use the observation windows to check on the eggs.
- Use the included egg candler to periodically check egg development.
6.5. Hatching Phase
- Approximately 3-4 days before hatching, stop the automatic egg turning.
- Increase the humidity to 65-75% by adding more water to the channels. This helps soften the eggshells and aids in hatching.
- Do not open the incubator during hatching. Opening the lid can cause a sudden drop in humidity, which can shrink the membrane around the chick, making it difficult to hatch.
- Once hatched, allow the chicks to dry and fluff up inside the incubator for several hours (up to 24 hours) before moving them to a brooder.
7. Maintenance
7.1. Cleaning
- Always unplug the incubator before cleaning.
- Remove the egg trays and the removable grid. These can be washed with mild soap and water, then thoroughly rinsed and dried.
- Wipe the interior and exterior surfaces of the incubator with a damp cloth and a mild disinfectant solution. Ensure all surfaces are dry before reassembling or storing.
- Clean the water channels regularly to prevent mold or bacterial growth.
7.2. Storage
- Store the clean and dry incubator in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- It is recommended to store it in its original packaging or with the polystyrene protection for added safety.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature too low/high | Incorrect setting, unstable room temperature, sensor issue. | Adjust temperature setting. Ensure stable ambient temperature. Check sensor connection. |
| Humidity too low/high | Insufficient/excessive water in channels, room humidity. | Add/remove water from channels. Consider room humidifier/dehumidifier if necessary. |
| Eggs not turning | Turning function deactivated, motor malfunction. | Check turning settings on control panel. Ensure it's activated (unless in hatching phase). Contact support if motor issue suspected. |
| Alarm sounding | Temperature/humidity deviation, sensor error. | Check LED display for specific error. Address temperature/humidity issues. |
| Poor hatch rate | Infertile eggs, incorrect temperature/humidity, improper turning, poor ventilation. | Ensure eggs are fertile and stored correctly. Verify all settings. Do not open incubator frequently. |
9. Specifications
- Model Number: 51273
- Brand: WilTec
- Capacity: Up to 72 eggs (chicken egg size)
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 51 x 43 x 53.01 cm
- Weight: 5.68 kg
- Voltage: 230 Volts
- Power: 150 Watts
- Temperature Control Range: 25°C - 39.5°C
- Egg Turning: Fully automatic
- Display: LED for temperature and heating phases
- Humidity Control: Water channels and fan
- Material: Transparent plastic
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact WilTec customer service directly. Ensure you have your model number (51273) and proof of purchase available when seeking support.
Manufacturer: WilTec Wildanger Technik GmbH
For further assistance, please visit the WilTec Brand Store.
