RED BULL INCUBATOR.....heat question 3" or 11" flexwatt?

[rj1204]

My incubator is a Red Bull mini-fridge. All the components have been removed except for the lights, which I only plan on turning on when checking on my eggs. I have around 6 feet of left over 10-watt, 3" flexwatt heat tape that I was considering putting down the center of my incubator, right in between the two tubs on each shelf. I was also going to put an 80mm fan right above the heat tape so it distributes the heat. I planned on starting the 3" heat tape at the bottom of the top shelf since heat rises and the fan would give off a little heat too.

Can you guys tell me what you think and if you recommend I use 11" heat tape instead? I figured using 3" heat tape would allow my fan to blow most of the heat so it would be better distributed and even temps throughout. I am attaching some photos of the incubator from a few feet away and with the door open up close. Thanks for any advice!

[ted1025]

I don't have much experience with incubators but my mini fridge bator looks to be about the same size as your red bull fridge here. I used 3 feet of 11inch flexx watt. It might be a little to much but it is more efficient in the long run, the flexx watt is barely running to keep the bator pegged at 89.

You might be able to get to your desired temp with enough 3inch but in my experience the 11 inch would be the way to go.

[takagari]

really in that small an area, 6 feet is plenty. even run two 3' ones down the middle.

not a lot to heat and if you don't open it hourly. you should be fine. save some money

[rj1204]

That's kind of what I was thinking. The flexwatt is not 6 watt but 10 watt so it will not work too hard to heat up. With the fan blowing right down the 3" tape, it should distribute the heat well. I will probably try it and if it works great, if not, I will order the 11". Thanks.