How to Make an Incubator Out of a Refrigerator

If your pet or livestock lays eggs, the eggs must be put into a temperature-controlled incubator where they will remain at a steady temperature and will be protected from external dangers. A refrigerator, whether it is a small dorm unit or a full-sized appliance, is an excellent item to make into an incubator due to its efficient insulation and sturdy construction. Making an incubator out of a fridge is simple and requires only basic supplies that can be purchased at many pet and livestock shops.

Things You'll Need

  • Refrigerator
  • Heat tape
  • Fan
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Move the refrigerator into a room with a stable temperature. Scrub it with a soapy water, then leave the door open and allow it to air dry completely.

    • 2

      Plug the refrigerator into an outlet if it has a functioning integrated thermometer. Turn the temperature gauge off so that it doesn't produce any cold air. Do not plug in the refrigerator if it doesn't have a built-in thermometer; instead, place a digital or mercury thermometer on one of the shelves.

    • 3

      Run heat tape on one or more of the shelves, depending on many eggs that need incubating. Set each strip of tape to a low temperature, then close the door and continuously monitor the temperature until it stabilizes in the range in which the eggs need to be incubated.

    • 4

      Place a small, low-speed fan on the bottom of the refrigerator to keep the air circulating. Put the eggs in a plastic container filled with vermiculite. Place the container on the shelf, then close the door. Check the temperature sporadically throughout the day.