This is part two of Clayton Botkin’s article regarding tips for buying a new incubator. Below are another 7 incubator tips to consider when buying a new unit or your first incubator.

1. Be aware of warranty requirements. If registration is required, follow manufacturer instructions as soon as it arrives so it is not forgotten. It is important to realize that the sales rep is not a technician, and may not be able to diagnose problems or troubleshooting. Usually, warranty is handled by the manufacturer. Most of the time, a sales company is not the manufacturer. The sales company only receives and handles the product, normally without even opening the boxes to ensure the customer gets the same product they are purchasing.
2. Manufacturers, unless otherwise specified, are the ones responsible for warranty concerns. They have the technicians on hand who developed and are intimately familiar with their products and technology. You can probably save yourself valuable time and money by contacting them first with your concerns about malfunctions and operating errors. They will be able to diagnose issues faster and likely more accurately than a sales rep. They will also know where the closest replacement parts may be.
3. If a shipment is received with clear damage, note it to the delivery agent before signing for it. This important step will ensure that there was a flag raised for an insurance claim. Contact your sales rep if you suspect an incubator may have been damaged in shipping. They will be able to handle the claim and hopefully supply a replacement unit as fast as possible.
4. If you are unhappy with a product, or the product was not what you wanted, contact your sales rep. Don’t jump to social media to complain. Lots of manufacturers monitor social media for product feedback. If they see that you have not contacted them before making accusations or insinuations, your response from them may be less than favorable.
5. If you have used a product, and then are unhappy with it, don’t expect to be able to return it. Unfortunately, incubators must be considered contaminated once an egg has been placed in it. The return of a used incubator is highly unlikely as it could be potentially contaminated with disease. It is a severe risk to a facilities biosecurity accepting this unit. To relate, you would not return a used hair brush to the store where you purchased it. Manufacturers will provide parts to repair a malfunctioning incubator, but their acceptance of its return is not likely. It is important to realize this before using an incubator and make sure it is the incubator that fits your needs.
6. Beware of poorly manufactured products. Many incubators are now being manufactured overseas, at much lower prices than those from recognized brands. They are likely cheaper for a reason, which should cause you to be wary. Remember, these are units that operate at a relatively high temperature for extended periods of time. The plastics and components that make up an incubator must be of the highest quality to facilitate surfaces that are easy to clean and maintain safe operation. Lower quality components may not afford these traits.
7. Only use the recommended cleaning agents by the manufacturer. Avoid corrosive materials and ensure you only clean the approved surfaces. If you have questions about cleaning, contact your sales rep or the manufacturer

Want to read the first seven tips on buying an incubator? Click here to read them now.

By Clayton Botkin, Judging License #1234