20 POULTRY 
tions it will be easier to maintain an even 
temperature within the machine, and the 
better this is accomplished the better the 
eggs will hatch. 
The Oil to Use. If the machine uses oil 
for fuel—and most of the smaller machines 
do—care must be taken to purchase the best 
grade of oil that can be obtained. Since the 
lamps in an incubator are forced to run 
straight through every hour in the twenty- 
four through a period of twenty-three or 
twenty-four days, it stands to reason that only 
the best oil should be purchased. Ifa poor oil 
is used the wicks become charred and covered 
with carbon, they are very likely to flare up, 
depositing soot on the interior of the chim- 
ney, the lamps become intensely hot and may 
set fire to the machine. Incidentally, the 
house may be set on fire. Even though the 
machine is closely watched, it is more diffi- 
cult to obtain a uniform temperature with 
poor oil than with good oil. While a good 
oil may cost several cents more per gallon, it 
will be well worth the added price. 
Setting Up the Machine. In buying 
any make of machine, follow as far as pos- 
