Introduction: DIY Egg Incubator Made From Cooler

This is an easy to make egg incubator that doesn't cost much.

Supplies

You are going to need these supplies to build the incubator.

  • Cooler
  • Plexiglass
  • Duct tape
  • Lamp kit
  • Thermostat (I used a water heater thermostat)
  • Dual light bulb socket adapter
  • Electric tape
  • 12v DC adapter
  • 2 computer fans
  • Thermometer
  • Chicken wire and hardware cloth
  • A block of wood
  • Sponge
  • Incandescent light bulbs

Step 1: Make a Window in the Top

First, you need to cut a hole in the top of the cooler. Then I used duct tape to attach a piece of plexi glass on top.

Step 2: Drill Ventilation Holes

I next drilled a few ventilation holes that can be covered with duct tape if it gets too cold.

Step 3: Wire Up the Lights and Thermostat

I cut the cord on the lamp and attached the wires to the thermostat. I set the thermostat to about 100 degrees.

Step 4: Connecting the Fans

Next I connected the two computer fans to the DC adapter. I'm using one of the holes I cut earlier to string all the wires through. Make sure you connect the wires inside the cooler. I then secured the fans nicely on either side of the cooler to provide good airflow.

Step 5: Putting It All Together

Now it's time to put it all together! Notice that I left space behind the thermostat, this is so that it can get an accurate reading. I put a piece of chicken wire under the lights so that they don't rest of the bottom of the cooler. I then put in a wet sponge to keep the humidity at the right level. Next, I cut a block of wood to support the hardware cloth. And lastly I attached the hardware cloth on top of everything. Now it's time to test if it works!

Step 6: Turning Everything On

I plugged everything in and it works great!

Step 7: Add the Eggs!

Now it's time to add the eggs! They should hatch in about 21 days!