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Purchasing Guide

Illustration of a lab incubator
Lab Manager

Purchasing Guide: Incubators

CO2 incubators allow researchers to create optimal environments for cell and tissue culture, while microbiology incubators provide ideal conditions for growing microorganisms

by Lab Manager
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Incubators are critical instruments for growing a variety of organisms in the lab. CO2 incubators allow researchers to create optimal environments for cell and tissue culture, while microbiology incubators provide ideal conditions for growing microorganisms. Refrigerated options are also available for numerous other applications. When purchasing an incubator, make sure it is easy to clean and use, as well as reliable, before exploring additional features. For a list of incubator manufacturers, see our online directory: LabManager.com/incubator-manufacturers and LabManager.com/CO2-incubator-manufacturers

5 Questions to Ask When Buying an Incubator:

  1. What capacity do you need now and in the future?
  2. What are the shelves made of and will they corrode with prolonged use and cleaning?
  3. What method of airflow is used in the incubator, and does it contain a HEPA filter?
  4. Is remote monitoring available for temperature and CO2 concentration?
  5. How precise and accurate do the controls and sensors need to be for your work?

Compressors vs Peltiers: Comparing Cooling Technology

Vapor compressors and thermoelectric peltier coolers each have benefits and drawbacks. To learn more about which cooling technology is best suited for your application, visit LabManager.com/incubator-cooling-tech.

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Key Features of a COIncubator

When buying a COincubator, you may need to consider more than just temperature and gas atmosphere controls. Other factors to consider include size, surface materials, and more. Learn more at LabManager.com/co2-incubator-factors.