How to Choose the Best Incubator in South Africa

Checklist: what to look for

• Automatic egg turning. Missed turns are one of the most common causes of poor hatches.
• Forced air (a fan). Needed for even temperature on more than one tray. See forced air vs still air.
• Digital temperature and humidity display. You should see both numbers without opening the door.
• Stable temperature. Ask what the machine holds, not just what it can be set to.
• A plan for load shedding and power cuts. Can the machine run on an inverter or generator? See hatching during load shedding.
• Warranty and spares in South Africa. A cheap import with no local support is expensive when a fan or controller fails mid-hatch.
• Easy to clean. Removable trays and a wipeable inside.

Pick the size before the brand

The best incubator for chicken eggs on a backyard plot is not the best for a hatchery. Buy a size you can fill with fertile eggs every batch. Our size guide works it out from the chicks you want per month.

Questions to ask any seller

• Who do I call if it stops working, and how quickly can you help?
• Is setup training included?
• What exactly does the warranty cover, and for how long?
• Can I pay on delivery or see the machine first?
• What hatch rate do your customers get with good fertile eggs?

How IncubatorPro measures up

Every IncubatorPro model has automatic turning, forced-air digital temperature control and built-in humidity control, a 2-year warranty, setup training and nationwide delivery, with cash on delivery or EFT. Compare sizes on the price list or read our customer reviews.