
( Brand: Cliseve ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: FDQ-18 ), ( Part Type: Chick )
The **Cliseve FDQ-18 18-Egg Automatic Incubator** is a meticulously engineered, high-performance device designed to provide poultry enthusiasts, backyard farmers, and small-scale breeders with a reliable and efficient solution for hatching healthy chicks with minimal intervention. This state-of-the-art incubator combines advanced automation with precision temperature and humidity control to create an optimal environment for egg incubation, ensuring consistent results from the first day of setting to the moment the chicks pip. Built with durability in mind, the FDQ-18 features a sturdy, insulated plastic housing that maintains stable internal conditions while protecting the eggs from external temperature fluctuations, vibrations, and drafts. Its compact yet spacious design accommodates up to 18 large eggs (such as those from Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, or Orpingtons) with ample room for proper air circulation, reducing the risk of mold or bacterial growth. The automatic egg turner mechanism, operating silently and smoothly, rotates the eggs every 2-3 hours during the first 18 days of incubation, preventing the embryos from sticking to the shell and promoting even development. This hands-off functionality eliminates the need for manual turning, making the FDQ-18 ideal for users with busy schedules or those managing multiple batches.
At the heart of the Cliseve FDQ-18 is its intelligent control system, which features a digital display and user-friendly interface for precise monitoring and adjustment of critical parameters. The incubator maintains a stable temperature range of **99.5 F ( 0.5 F)** and humidity levels between **40-60%** (adjustable for the first 18 days and **60-70%** during the final 3 days to facilitate hatching), all while providing real-time feedback via clear, backlit indicators. The built-in thermostat and hygrometer ensure accuracy, while the optional external probe allows for even more precise environmental readings. Safety is a priority with the FDQ-18, which includes an automatic shut-off feature to prevent overheating and a secure, lockable lid to retain humidity and protect the eggs from contamination. The unit also operates quietly, minimizing disturbances to the developing chicks during the critical hatching phase.
Beyond its technical excellence, the Cliseve FDQ-18 is designed with practicality in mind, offering features that enhance convenience and ease of use. The incubator s wide, shallow egg trays are made from food-grade, non-toxic materials and are easy to clean, ensuring a hygienic environment for each batch. The adjustable egg rack accommodates eggs of varying sizes, while the removable design allows for quick and effortless access during candling or maintenance. The FDQ-18 also includes a built-in timer for the automatic turner, allowing users to customize the rotation cycle to suit their specific needs. Additionally, the unit is equipped with a power indicator and a low-battery warning to prevent unexpected interruptions during incubation. Whether used for breeding rare heritage strains, expanding a flock, or educational purposes, the Cliseve FDQ-18 delivers professional-grade performance in a user-friendly package, making it an indispensable tool for anyone serious about successful chick hatching.
The **Clive FDQ-18 18-Egg Automatic Incubator** is a popular choice for small-scale egg hatching due to its affordability and basic functionality. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
### **Pros of the Clive FDQ-18 Incubator**
1. **Affordability** One of the most budget-friendly automatic incubators available, making it accessible for beginners or hobbyists with limited funds.
2. **Automatic Egg Turning** Includes a built-in egg turner that rotates eggs every hour, reducing the need for manual intervention and improving hatch rates.
3. **Compact Size** Suitable for small spaces, allowing users to incubate eggs without requiring excessive room.
4. **Basic but Functional Design** Provides essential features like temperature and humidity control, though with limited precision compared to higher-end models.
5. **Good for Small-Scale Hatching** Ideal for hatching up to 18 eggs at a time, making it practical for backyard chicken keepers or small-scale breeders.
6. **Easy to Set Up and Use** Comes with straightforward instructions and minimal assembly requirements, allowing users to start hatching quickly.
7. **Durable Plastic Construction** The materials appear sturdy enough for casual use, though long-term durability may vary based on maintenance.
### **Cons of the Clive FDQ-18 Incubator**
1. **Limited Temperature and Humidity Control** The temperature and humidity settings are basic and may lack precision, requiring manual adjustments to achieve optimal conditions (typically 99.5 F / 37.5 C and 45-55% humidity).
2. **No Digital Display** Relies on analog gauges, which can be less accurate and harder to read compared to digital models with real-time monitoring.
3. **Manual Humidity Adjustment** Humidity control is often done via a water pan, which can evaporate unevenly, leading to fluctuations in moisture levels.
4. **Basic Ventilation System** Air circulation may not be as efficient as in more advanced incubators, potentially affecting oxygen exchange for developing embryos.
5. **No Built-In Candling Light** Unlike some higher-end models, it lacks a built-in light for candling eggs to check on development, requiring an external light source.
6. **Potential for Overheating** Some users report that the incubator can run hot if placed in a poorly ventilated area or if the thermostat is not calibrated properly.
7. **Limited Customer Support** As a budget model, it may not come with robust customer service or warranty coverage, leaving users to troubleshoot issues independently.
8. **Not Ideal for Large-Scale Hatching** The 18-egg capacity is restrictive for serious breeders or those planning to hatch multiple batches simultaneously.
### **Conclusion**
The **Clive FDQ-18** is a solid choice for **beginner hatchers or small-scale egg incubators** who prioritize affordability and basic functionality. It eliminates the need for manual turning, which is a significant advantage for those new to hatching. However, its **lack of precision in temperature and humidity control, analog display, and limited features** make it less suitable for serious breeders or those seeking higher hatch rates with minimal effort.
If you are **hatching a small number of eggs (under 20) for personal use** and can monitor conditions manually, this incubator will work adequately. However, if you require **more precise control, digital monitoring, or plan to hatch larger quantities**, investing in a slightly higher-end model (such as the **Brinsea Mini or Brinsea Eco**) may be more beneficial in the long run.
### **Recommendation**
- **Buy the Clive FDQ-18 if:**- You are a beginner or hobbyist with a tight budget.
- You only need to hatch small batches (12-18 eggs at a time).
- You are willing to manually check and adjust temperature/humidity for optimal results.
- You prioritize simplicity and don t require advanced features like digital displays or candling lights.
- **Consider an alternative (e.g., Brinsea, Brinsea Eco, or similar mid-range models) if:**- You want **better temperature and humidity stability**.
- You plan to hatch **larger quantities or multiple batches**.
- You prefer **digital monitoring and automatic adjustments**.
- You want **longer warranties and better customer support**.
For most **serious or intermediate hatchers**, upgrading to a slightly more advanced incubator will likely improve hatch success rates and reduce stress. However, the **Clive FDQ-18 remains a practical and cost-effective option for casual users**.
Manufacturer: Cliseve.: Package Dimensions: 13.74 x 13.58 7.8 inches. Features: Cliseve Egg Incubator Made of durable, high-quality PET material, our egg incubator is resistant to high and low temperatures. Automatic Egg Turning This egg incubator automatically turns the eggs every 120 minutes, simulating natural behavior of a hen.
Its easy to assemble and suitable for hatching a variety of eggs, 360 transparent lid that allows you observe the egg development process more clearly. If the temperature is out of range, incubator will automatically alarm and draw your attention. The incubators built-in fan system assists internal air circulation to maintain a stable temperature for the incubating eggs. Adjustable Temperature The incubator can be set to different specific temperatures.