A016 GB Issue 02
12
11 Hatching
11.1
If hatching in the Mini Advance remove the egg disc two days before the hatch is due.
11.2
In AUTO mode the turn system will switch itself off at day 2 on the Day Countdown. If using ON mode
the turning must be switched to OFF manually in the control menu.
11.3
For cleanliness it is recommended to place a sheet of kitchen paper or similar in the bottom of the
incubator under the eggs when they are due to hatch. Tear a hole in the middle to fit over the water pots.
This also helps the chicks stand more comfortably.
11.4
Eggs nearing hatch are slightly less sensitive to temperature variation and the hatching temperature can be
reduced by up to 1°C (2°F) but this is not essential.
11.5
Hatching humidity levels need to be high (see section 8 above). Ensure the water pots are full to above
the divider between them.
IMPORTANT: After hatching, the smallest chicks (e.g. quail) can be at risk from drowning in the water pots.
It is advised that small pebbles or marbles are placed in each water pot before hatching to reduce this risk.
This will not reduce the evaporation of the water if the level is maintained to just above the pebbles.
11.6
When most eggs have hatched (12 to 48 hours after the first egg hatches) remove the hatchlings to a
brooder. The Brinsea Cosylamp is ideal for poultry and waterfowl etc. The Brinsea TLC-4 Brooder is
recommended for exotics.
11.7
During hatching the high humidity levels will fall dramatically when the lid is lifted and will take some
time to build up. Resist the temptation to open the incubator frequently – leave for at least 6 hours
between inspections.
12 Cleaning Up
IMPORTANT:
DISCONNECT THE INCUBATOR FROM THE MAINS POWER SUPPLY DURING CLEANING.
ENSURE THAT ALL ELECTRICAL PARTS ARE KEPT DRY. DO NOT IMMERSE THE INCUBATOR
TOP.
12.1
NEVER WASH THE BASE, EGG DISCS, COVERS OR CABINET PARTS IN LIQUIDS OVER 50°C
(120°F). DO NOT USE A DISHWASHER TO CLEAN EGG DISCS, INCUBATOR BASE OR LID.
Following each hatch in the Mini Advance remove and wash the egg disc and base in Brinsea Incubation
Disinfectant Solution. Wipe all other internal surfaces with a soft cloth soaked in the solution. Ensure that
the instructions supplied with the fluid are followed.
12.2
Be sure to clean the air vent holes to keep them clear. There are two small holes on the bottom “skirt” of
the lid and one on the back of the clear part of the lid above the level of the fan cover.
12.3
If a separate hatcher is used the procedure above should still be followed every two months.
12.4
Periodically unscrew the four screws retaining the fan cover, remove the cover and soak. Dust and fluff
may be removed from the fan and heater cord with a soft brush. USE NO LIQUIDS. DO NOT TURN
THE LID OVER AS THE FAN IS NOT FIXED ONCE THE FAN COVER IS REMOVED. The fan
should be located on the 4 pegs under the lid before the cover is re-fitted.
THE INCUBATOR MUST NOT BE USED WITHOUT THE FAN COVER FITTED. THE
COVER SUPPORTS THE FAN AND PROVIDES PROTECTION FROM THE MOVING
BLADES.