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Precision Model 815 Refrigerated BOD Incubator – Used and Refurbished
The Precision Model 815 Refrigerated BOD Incubator is a large-capacity, temperature-controlled laboratory incubator designed for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) testing, water and wastewater analysis, environmental microbiology, and other applications requiring accurate temperature control above and below ambient conditions. Featuring a 20 cu. ft. (566 L) chamber, microprocessor temperature controller, mechanical convection, and an operating range of -10°C to +50°C, the Precision 815 provides dependable incubation conditions for environmental, research, and industrial laboratories.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this Precision 815 offers a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a new refrigerated incubator. Its spacious chamber accommodates up to 333 standard 300 mL BOD bottles when equipped with the appropriate shelving arrangement, making it particularly useful for laboratories processing large numbers of water and wastewater samples.
Key Features
Large 20 cu. ft. (566 L) refrigerated incubation chamber
Temperature range from -10°C to +50°C
Designed for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) testing
Capacity for up to 333 standard 300 mL BOD bottles
Microprocessor temperature controller with digital display
Mechanical convection for consistent temperature distribution
Temperature uniformity of approximately ±0.5°C at 37°C
Temperature sensitivity of approximately ±0.1°C
Refrigeration system for below-ambient incubation
High- and low-temperature protection
Five fixed-height wire chamber shelves on this AIE unit
Six fixed-height plastic door shelves
Access port for independent monitoring probes
External recorder connection and RS-232 capability, depending on configuration
Gasketed door with key-locking capability
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Precision Model 815 Overview
The Precision Model 815 was developed specifically for laboratories performing BOD determinations and other procedures requiring stable temperatures at or below normal laboratory ambient conditions.
Unlike a conventional general-purpose incubator that provides heating only, the Precision 815 incorporates refrigeration and heating systems that allow it to maintain temperatures across a broad -10°C to +50°C operating range.
This versatility makes the unit suitable for refrigerated incubation, conventional microbiological incubation, environmental sample conditioning, and selected temperature-controlled research applications.
The 20 cu. ft. chamber provides substantial capacity for laboratories processing large sample volumes. Its upright, floor-standing configuration accommodates multiple shelves of BOD bottles while conserving laboratory floor space compared with several smaller incubators.
The chamber uses mechanical convection to circulate conditioned air and promote uniform temperatures throughout the interior.
A microprocessor controller provides straightforward push-button temperature selection, while a digital display allows operators to monitor chamber conditions.
The Precision 815 also incorporates high- and low-temperature protection to help safeguard samples during extended incubation procedures.
This particular AIE unit includes five fixed-height wire shelves inside the main chamber and six fixed-height plastic shelves in the door, providing flexible storage for BOD bottles and other compatible sample containers.
Common Applications
The Precision Model 815 is especially well suited for environmental laboratories performing biochemical oxygen demand testing of municipal wastewater, industrial wastewater, surface water, and other aqueous samples.
BOD testing measures the oxygen consumed by microorganisms as they break down biodegradable organic material under defined conditions. Maintaining a consistent incubation temperature is essential for obtaining meaningful results.
The Precision 815 provides the controlled 20°C environment commonly required for standard five-day BOD testing, while its large chamber accommodates substantial numbers of sample bottles.
Beyond BOD determinations, the incubator can support environmental microbiology, microbial growth studies, sample preservation, refrigerated incubation, and laboratory procedures requiring temperatures below ambient.
Industrial laboratories may also use the unit for temperature conditioning, quality-control testing, and selected stability-related applications.
BOD Testing & Environmental Laboratory Applications
The Precision 815 was specifically engineered to accommodate the needs of laboratories performing biochemical oxygen demand determinations.
A standard five-day BOD test typically involves incubating prepared water or wastewater samples at 20°C for five days. Dissolved oxygen measurements taken before and after incubation are used to determine oxygen consumption under the prescribed testing method.
Temperature consistency is important because microbial activity and oxygen consumption are temperature dependent.
The Precision 815's refrigeration system allows it to maintain the required incubation temperature even when the surrounding laboratory is warmer than the desired setpoint.
Its substantial chamber capacity is another important advantage. Manufacturer literature describes a maximum capacity of approximately 297 standard 300 mL BOD bottles on the chamber shelves, plus 36 additional bottles on the door shelves, for a total of 333 bottles.
Actual capacity depends on the shelf arrangement, bottle dimensions, and available clearance. Because this particular AIE unit has five chamber shelves rather than the manufacturer's standard six, its usable bottle capacity should be confirmed for the installed configuration.
The combination of large capacity and refrigerated temperature control makes the Precision 815 especially attractive for municipal wastewater treatment laboratories, environmental testing companies, industrial water-quality laboratories, and research institutions.
Sample Types & Incubation Recommendations
The Precision 815 can accommodate a wide range of samples requiring controlled refrigerated or above-ambient incubation.
For standard BOD testing, laboratories should follow the applicable analytical method for incubation temperature, duration, bottle preparation, dissolved oxygen measurement, and quality control.
The chamber should be loaded to allow adequate air circulation around sample containers. Excessively dense loading or blocked airflow pathways may affect temperature uniformity and recovery following door openings.
Samples should also be positioned securely, particularly when using the door shelves, to prevent movement during routine operation.
Temperature Control & Uniformity
The Precision Model 815 combines microprocessor temperature regulation, mechanical convection, and refrigeration to maintain stable conditions across its large chamber.
The published temperature range extends from -10°C to +50°C, allowing the incubator to support both refrigerated and heated incubation applications.
At 37°C, manufacturer literature specifies temperature uniformity of approximately ±0.5°C and temperature sensitivity of approximately ±0.1°C under defined operating conditions.
Published uniformity at lower temperatures varies with the selected setpoint and measurement procedure. The manufacturer's historical literature lists approximately ±0.9°C at -10°C.
Mechanical convection helps distribute conditioned air throughout the chamber, reducing temperature differences between shelf positions.
The refrigeration system provides cooling capacity when chamber temperatures must be maintained below laboratory ambient conditions.
For applications operating above ambient temperature, the cooling system can be managed according to the manufacturer's operating instructions to support efficient temperature regulation.
High- and low-temperature protection provides additional safeguards during extended incubation periods.
The controller also allows calibration adjustments from the front panel, simplifying routine maintenance and temperature verification.
BOD Bottle Capacity & Shelving Configuration
The Precision 815 is particularly well suited for high-volume BOD testing because its interior was designed to accommodate standard 300 mL BOD bottles.
Manufacturer literature specifies capacity for up to 297 bottles on the main chamber shelves and an additional 36 bottles on the door shelves.
This provides a maximum published capacity of approximately 333 bottles with the appropriate shelf configuration.
The standard manufacturer arrangement includes six main chamber shelves and six door shelves. However, this particular AIE unit is listed with five fixed-height wire chamber shelves and six fixed-height plastic door shelves.
Consequently, laboratories should not assume the full published bottle capacity is available with this individual unit.
The door shelves provide additional storage without occupying the main chamber shelves, an advantage for laboratories processing large batches of environmental samples.
The chamber's upright design also allows users to organize bottles by sampling date, testing batch, client, or analytical procedure.
Precision Model 815 Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Precision / Thermo Scientific
Model
815
AIE Product Code
3134C INC
Equipment Type
Refrigerated BOD Incubator
Chamber Capacity
20 cu. ft. (566 L)
Temperature Range
-10°C to +50°C
Temperature Uniformity
Approximately ±0.5°C at 37°C
Temperature Uniformity at -10°C
Approximately ±0.9°C
Temperature Sensitivity
Approximately ±0.1°C
Temperature Controller
Microprocessor
Temperature Display
Digital
Air Circulation
Mechanical convection / forced air
Refrigeration
Yes
High/Low Temperature Protection
Yes
Main Chamber Shelves
5 fixed-height wire shelves on this unit
Door Shelves
6 fixed-height plastic shelves
Standard Manufacturer Shelf Configuration
6 chamber shelves plus 6 door shelves
Maximum Published BOD Bottle Capacity
Up to 333 standard 300 mL bottles
Actual Bottle Capacity
Depends on installed shelving
Access Port
Yes, manufacturer platform
Recorder Connection
External chart recorder jack
RS-232
Configuration-dependent
Door
Gasketed, key-locking design
Interior Dimensions (W × D × H)
26.5" × 17" × 56" per AIE listing
Manufacturer Interior Dimensions
Approximately 26.5" × 20" × 57"
Exterior Dimensions (W × D × H)
32" × 29" × 85" per AIE listing
Manufacturer Exterior Dimensions
Approximately 32" × 29" × 75"
Electrical Requirements
Verify individual unit; 120V and 230V versions manufactured
AIE Listed Weight
Approximately 165 lb.; requires verification
Published Model Weight
Approximately 300–355 lb., depending on source and configuration
Warranty
90 days through American Instrument Exchange
Specifications reflect the Precision Model 815 manufacturer literature and AIE's listing for SKU 3134C INC. Exterior height, interior depth, weight, electrical requirements, and installed accessories should be verified for this individual unit before publication or shipment.
Precision Model 815 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Precision Model 815 used for?
The Precision 815 is a refrigerated laboratory incubator designed primarily for biochemical oxygen demand testing, environmental microbiology, water and wastewater analysis, and other applications requiring controlled temperatures above or below ambient conditions.
What is the temperature range of the Precision 815?
The Precision Model 815 operates from approximately -10°C to +50°C, allowing it to support refrigerated incubation, standard 20°C BOD testing, and higher-temperature microbiological procedures.
How many BOD bottles can the Precision 815 accommodate?
Manufacturer literature specifies a maximum capacity of approximately 333 standard 300 mL BOD bottles with the standard shelf configuration. This particular AIE unit has five chamber shelves and six door shelves, so its actual bottle capacity may be lower.
Is the Precision 815 suitable for five-day BOD testing?
Yes. The Precision 815 was specifically designed for BOD determinations and can maintain the 20°C incubation conditions commonly required for standard five-day BOD testing procedures.
Does the Precision 815 have refrigeration?
Yes. The incubator incorporates refrigeration that allows it to maintain temperatures below ambient laboratory conditions. This is particularly important for BOD testing when the surrounding room temperature exceeds the required incubation setpoint.
What is the difference between the Precision 815 and Precision 818?
The Precision 815 is designed primarily for refrigerated incubation and BOD testing. The Precision 818 is a related plant-growth incubator platform that incorporates specialized lighting and programmable day/night operating features. These plant-growth features should not be assumed to be present on the Model 815.
Does the Precision 815 use forced-air circulation?
Yes. The incubator uses mechanical convection to circulate conditioned air throughout the chamber. This helps maintain consistent temperatures across the large interior.
Does the Precision 815 have an alarm system?
The Precision 815 incorporates high- and low-temperature protection. Manufacturer documentation also describes connections for external monitoring and alarm integration, although installed communications and monitoring accessories should be verified for the individual unit.
Can the Precision 815 be used for applications other than BOD testing?
Yes. The incubator can support environmental microbiology, temperature conditioning, microbial growth studies, and other laboratory procedures requiring temperatures within its -10°C to +50°C operating range.
Is this Precision Model 815 refurbished?
The Precision Model 815 offered by American Instrument Exchange is used and refurbished. AIE technicians inspect, clean, and test refrigerated incubators using calibrated temperature-recording equipment to verify temperature control and stability. Refrigeration components, fans, controllers, door seals, and other installed systems are inspected and serviced as necessary. Refurbished equipment includes a 90-day warranty.
Click here to see a video of this incubator on our YouTube channel.
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Incubators Ensure Quality and Stability Before Use
Used and refurbished laboratory incubators from American Instrument Exchange are thoroughly tested to ensure optimal performance and temperature stability with laboratory safety standards. Each unit undergoes a detailed inspection and functionality assessment to meet the needs of research, clinical, and industrial labs.
Why Testing Used Laboratory Incubators Is Essential
Before a laboratory incubator is reintroduced into any work environment, it must be tested for:
• Temperature uniformity and accuracy
• Airflow and humidity control (if applicable)
• Door seal integrity and insulation effectiveness
• Electrical and safety system compliance
Comprehensive testing reduces the risk of culture loss, contamination, and equipment failure—especially critical in applications involving cell culture, microbiology, pharmaceutical research, and diagnostics.
Our multi-point testing protocol for used and refurbished incubators ensures reliability, safety, and performance across all models and brands.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Incubators
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Check for cosmetic damage, corrosion, and wear to exterior surfaces, door hinges, and gasket seals
• Inspect power cord, wiring, and display panel for any defects or signs of tampering
• Confirm that shelves, chamber components, and internal fixtures are present and undamaged
2. Functional Testing
• Power on the incubator and verify all display indicators and alarms function correctly
• Test door latch and seal mechanisms for proper closure and insulation
• Run basic temperature cycles to ensure the unit maintains stability over time
3. Temperature Accuracy and Uniformity Tests
• Test internal sensors and controllers using temperature probes
• Measure temperature consistency at multiple chamber locations over several hours
• Confirm that programmable temperature settings respond accurately
4. Airflow and Humidity Control (if applicable)
• Test internal fan operation and airflow distribution
• For humidified incubators, inspect and test humidity reservoirs, sensors, and control systems
• Check for condensation buildup and confirm environmental stability
5. Electrical Safety and Compliance Checks
• Ensure all electrical components are properly grounded
• Perform insulation resistance and leakage current tests
• Verify compliance with current electrical safety standards for laboratory equipment
6. Final Quality Assurance Checklist
• Perform full cycle testing at various temperature setpoints
• Document performance benchmarks and results
All refurbished incubators from American Instrument Exchange are backed by our commitment to quality and precision. With our strict testing procedures, you can rely on your incubator to deliver dependable results from day one.
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Incubators Performance and Quality from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every used laboratory incubator we sell goes through a repair and refurbishment protocol. Whether it’s a standard, CO₂, or refrigerated incubator, our goal is to restore each unit to laboratory-level performance—ensuring temperature accuracy, environmental stability, and long-term reliability in your lab.
Why Choose a Refurbished Laboratory Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?
• Fully tested for performance and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• Cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through reuse and restoration
• Refurbished by expert technicians with decades of lab equipment experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every incubator at American Instrument Exchange follows this comprehensive, multi-stage process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Visual inspection for cosmetic wear, corrosion, dents, or broken components
• Mechanical assessment of door hinges, gaskets, seals, and chamber components
• Document any missing parts or issues requiring repair or replacement
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Thorough internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive solutions
• Decontamination/cleaning of surfaces to remove biological, chemical, or particulate residue
• Cleaning of removable parts (e.g., shelves, trays, etc.)
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair
• Repair or replacement of worn mechanical components such as door latches, fans, hinges, and seals
• Evaluation and repair of control panels, switches, thermostats, and displays
• Inspection and testing of wiring, fuses, relays, and power supplies
4. Environmental Control System Assessment
• For CO₂ incubators: CO₂ sensors, regulators, and gas delivery systems are tested
• For refrigerated incubators: compressors, condensers, and cooling systems are evaluated for performance and leaks
• Fan motors and airflow systems are tested to ensure uniform environmental conditions
5. Temperature and Sensor Testing
• All temperature sensors and controllers are tested using thermometers/probes
• Uniformity and accuracy tested at multiple chamber locations
• For humidified or CO₂ incubators, humidity and CO₂ stability are verified
6. Safety System Testing
• Test of over-temperature protection systems and alarms
• Evaluation of door sensors, safety interlocks, and power failure recovery
7. Final Quality Control and Documentation
• Full performance test run over 24 hours
• Validation of setpoints for temperature, CO₂ (if applicable), and humidity (if applicable)
• Final inspection and cleaning before packaging
• Complete service report
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years in the lab equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted source for high-quality refurbished laboratory incubators. Our proven refurbishment protocol ensures every unit is reliable, accurate, and ready to meet the demands of your lab from day one.
Warranty Information
All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,
Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”
Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.
Return & Cancellation Policy
American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.
Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.
Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.
Ongoing and Extended Support Options
American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.
For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.
For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.
Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty. Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
How do you test and recondition the equipment?
Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality. We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.
How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?
We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.
Return and order cancellation policy
American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.
Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?
Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.
How does your price matching policy work?
We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.
Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?
Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.
1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.
Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?
Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.
