Brinsea TLC-4 Brooder

During this period the young birds need to be kept in a clean, temperature controlled environment as free as possible from airborne contaminants such as fungal spores and dust. As they grow and develop down and feathers they can gradually tolerate lower temperatures and the breeder needs to be able to reduce the chamber temperature easily, whilst still maintaining control. Young birds also benefit from being able to see humans from within the chamber; during this early stage in their development it is essential for young birds to become familiar with the presence of people if they are to be tame in adulthood.

Brooder and Hospital Cage in one.

The new Octagon TLC-4 and TLC-5 brooders fulfil all these functions very cost effectively and can also double as a Hospital Cage or intensive care unit for sick or injured birds. The bird(s) are gently warmed by Brinsea's unique OmnithermTM heating system which evenly radiates heat from almost the entire internal surface of the chamber walls, so avoiding hot or cool spots and the hazards associated with traditional high temperature heaters.

The walls of the TLC-4 and TLC-5 Brooders are slightly warmer than the air temperature within the chamber, not colder like most brooders. Proven proportional band electronic temperature circuitry gives precise control of air temperature over a wide temperature range. The TLC brooders include an independent calibrated digital display of air temperature as standard.

Temperature consistency is further improved by carefully designed fan-assisted airflow. The fan (s) - two in the TLC-5 - gently circulate air within the cabinet through a replaceable two-stage electrostatic filter medium which removes airborne dust and down generated by the bird(s). At the same time a small, controlled amount of fresh air is drawn into the chamber through a second filter system, over the water reservoir and into the chamber.

OMNITHERM™ – Advanced incubator heating system

The design of the air circulation system results in a slight positive pressure within the chamber which resists the inflow of any unfiltered air from outside. This use of slight pressure differences is a proven method in hospital isolation wards to resist the spread of airborne bio hazards. Replacement filters are available from Brinsea Products Inc. or from your local distributor.

The interior of the bird chamber is entirely free of hard-to-clean mechanisms and protrusions. The fan, temperature sensors, heater and light are housed behind panels. Only the circulation filter is accessible from within the chamber for cleaning/renewal. The internal walls of the chamber are white to enhance visibility and cleaning. A switchable, low power light illuminates the interior for cleaning and inspection of birds. The simple toughness of the interior also resists damage which can be caused by larger birds.

carry handles on TLC4/5

Warm air at brooding temperature can result in dehydration of the hatchling so the TLC-4 and TLC-5 brooders incorporates a water reservoir over which incoming air is drawn to increase humidity within the chamber. The water reservoir is filled from outside the unit and is clear, allowing the user to monitor the water level.

The low weight of the TLC-4 and TLC-5 Brooders and the integral handle make it easy to carry. The feet in the base of the cabinet match recesses in the top so that multiple units can be stacked safely. The unique curved door slides conveniently around the back for easy access to the interior but the lack of edges and smooth internal surface mean that even the most determined bird will not escape.

Each TLC-4 is supplied with four quadrant shaped plastic nest tubs which just lift out for cleaning and make the best use of the circular space. All TLC-5 Intensive Care Units come with a durable floor liner for easy cleaning and again best use of the oval space.

Useful additional facilities

A sturdy removable wire door is available as an option for the TLC-5 to ensure larger and stronger birds are safely contained.

Warning of temperature fluctuations or power failure is an optional extra if Brinsea's T20 temperature alarm is connected to the TLC-5 Intensive Care Unit.

A battery adapter (inverter) - rated at 150 Watts continuous it is specially adapted to be compatible with any Brinsea incubator or brooder allowing you to run them from a shutdown and output overload protection.

As with all Brinsea products the Octagon TLC-4 brooder and TLC-5 Intensive Care Unit are manufactured under ISO9002 quality assurance, which is independently assessed to ensure consistent and reliable production.

In order that we can continue our policy of innovation and improvement we reserve the right to alter specifications without notice.