Buying an Incubator - Particularly in Australia

Buying an Incubator

An incubator is a specialised piece of equipment, and often one of the largest single purchases a poultry keeper will make, so it’s important to do lots of research before attempting to artificially hatch eggs. Things to consider could include:

• Auto, semi auto, or manual turning
• Wafer or electric thermostat
• Egg capacity
• Still air or fan forced
• Australian made, home made, or imported
• Humidity control
• New or second hand
• Availability of parts
• Longevity and durability
• Cost (value for money)
• Reliability
• Warranties and guarantees
• Resale value

But it’s also important not to overlook safety. Just like any other electrical appliance, it is important to note that if it has been deemed acceptable for Australian Standards does not necessarily mean its approved by the Electrical Safety Authority for use in Australia. This particularly applies when purchasing some machines directly from overseas, and if an advertised incubator seems too good to be true, then its probably worth looking into further.


* Buying an Incubator from somewhere Overseas - Buyer Beware

Buying within Australia is safer and there are more protections in place. However, issues are now cropping up where consumers within Australia are buying incubators from overseas through websites or online auction sites such as ebay.com.au. In many cases overseas products that are claimed to comply with Australian Standards actually do and the purchaser is satisfied. If the item is safe and in working order and complies with our standards it is fine to use it and enjoy hatching with it. It is, however, a case of 'Buyer Beware.'

When dealing with internationally based companies, you may not be protected by Australian law. It is important that you read any contractual terms that apply to your purchase, and ask the seller what policies or procedures they have in place if things go wrong. Product standards in the country of manufacture may be different to Australia and there is always some risk that the item will arrive in an unusable condition.

If a purchaser in Australia receives an incubator that is non-compliant, it is illegal to plug it in even if it is in working condition. It may be unsafe. You can communicate with the seller in an effort to have the appliance changed or returned, but that may not be successful. You can take the incubator to a local registered technician who can check the unit over, effect any necessary changes and tag the unit as compliant with Australian Standards. A basic check and tag might cost between $20 and $50, but cost of any changes would be additional to that.

It is not only illegal to purchase a non-compliant incubator, it would then be illegal to sell it to anyone else. In addition, if you used it and a fire or other accident resulted, your insurance would be void.


SUMMARY


* Buying inside Australia is the safest option
* Buy products compliant with Australian Standards
* Preferably buy products labelled as such
* If buying overseas, check the 'Buying from Overseas' Tips Below
* Ask for proof that your product is Australian Standards compliant
* Consult with an expert if you are not sure

Some Relevant Sites:

Electrical Regulatory Authorities Council
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission – Online Auctions
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission – Buying from Overseas
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission – The Online Shopper’s Checklist
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission – Product Safety Australia

Credit to : http://forum.backyardpoultry.com/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=8007621