Our Chambers and Heat Mats come pre-set to the desired temperatures of most spores (26-27c). If you need a lower temperature, read on for how to amend this! You might also need to know how many kits you can fit in each chamber, or where to put the probe? All this and more is answered bellow!
Chamber or Heat Mat?
Does it matter? Is one better than the other? Do I even need a heat source?
This does matter. The chamber provides both heat and protection from contaminants for multiple projects at a time. Whereas the heat mat can only be used to give one (or two at a push) projects some heat. The chambers are labelled as incubators as they both protect the project from external contamination, and keeps the heat in for longer due to the insulated walls. One isn't better than the other, but one may suit your needs over another.
It is important to have a heat source if you cannot maintain temperatures of 26-27c naturally.
" I think I can maintain 26-27c without a heat mat."
Famous last words.
Many people have said this to us, and in the Summer this is fine! Most people can maintain this when the weather is bright, warm and sunny without any trouble at all. However, during the Winter time it is essential for you to use a heat source or your project will not work.
A heat source is a broad term. You do not need to use a heat mat. There are heating tubes and other things available. However there are some things we would recommend against using (from experience).
Approved Heat Sources
Heat Mats with Thermostat
Heat Tubes
Ceramic Heater (Thermostat Controlled)
Guaranteed Failure
Radiators
Above the Boiler
Hot Water Bottles
If you have a warm room which you think is suitable, you must check this before storing your project here. Keep a working thermometer in the room where you want to keep the project. Check this throughout the day and night. If this remains stable, you may not need a heat mat!
If you cannot control the temperature, you cannot use it as a heat source.
Heat Mat Set-Up
These heat mats are quite easy to set-up, with an external temperature probe and easy to use thermostat with multiple settings.
We recommend placing your heat mat directly underneath your project and setting it to LO2/L03.
You can also use a box to cover your project which will assist in keeping your project nice and clean from contamination. This will also allow the heat to build up in your make shift chamber which will keep your project warmer for longer.
Where do you put the temperature probe?
Whether you have one of our heat mats or chambers, or another brand with an external probe, it matters where you place your probe.
If you look to the image to the right, the temperature probe is placed in the middle of one of the heat conducting, black sections. This is also taped down to ensure it doesn't move. Place your project directly over the probe for the best results.
Repeat these steps for the perfect probe placement!
Changing the Set Temperature
If you have a heat mat, simply use the thermostatic controller to set the temperature settings to L02/L03.
For the chamber, as we've recently upgraded the models leaving us we ask that you contact us prior to changing the settings as the method varies depending on the model.
