I am at a total loss, please help

[wildergamebirds]

  There are two new products out that might help.

  One is a thermometer, which measures temperature.  The other is a hygrometer, which measures humidity.  By knowing the temperature, and humidity, one could adjust for variations, and avoid powdered eggs in the shell, frozen eggs, or partially incubated eggs during storage.  I don't believe a fertilized egg can drown.  I suppose in extreme humidity ( a constant 100%?), eggs shells would dissolve. 

  If it were not possible to maintain proper humidity in a small refrigerator, it would not be possible in a GQF cabinet incubator.  They are about the same size.

  Many of the "dorm size" refrigerators have an evaporator which is built into the box, rather than an evaporative coil, with a circulatory fan, like an air conditioner.  This type refrigerator does not dehumidify

  Most full size refrigerators made in the last 30 years, or more are of the circulatory type.  These would require some sort of humidifier to properly store eggs for more than just a few days.

  Since cell division can begin at around 65F-68F, storing eggs at room temperature, for more than a week, can not be the best idea.  At the very least, it would likely cause a drawn out hatch.

[rushcreek]

Thank you wildergamebirds for explaining so well. Refrigerated air conditioners in your home would surely dry eggs out more quickly.

[greyghost]

B75, I'm sure your Little Giant came with instructions, and as you said , you read every word. My experience is  with Hova Bators. I hatch Jumbo Coturnix Quail at a rate of about 85%. I fill the first water section and keep it full a"till day 13, ( that would be day 20 for Bob's) then fill the 2nd section. I also set eggs daily from 8 hens and this method works great for me. All of my chicks hatch in my incubator, they are tough critters. I had 9 yesterday and 5 today.  Use the mfr's instructions for humidity and it should work fine.

[bswy75]

Just to let all of ya know, I have about 40 chicks running around now. Thanks for all your input. The separate hatcher really helped out.

[NH/Pete]