Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator

Brand : Fisherbrand

Product Code : SKU 3142N INC

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Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator (Cat. No. 15-103-0515)

Consistent temperature control is essential for microbiology, quality control, environmental testing, and general laboratory incubation. The Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator (Catalog No. 15-103-0515) is a gravity convection laboratory incubator designed to provide stable, uniform heating for a wide variety of microbiological and life science applications. Featuring a 180-liter (6.4 cubic foot) stainless steel chamber, microprocessor temperature control, gravity convection airflow, and a compact, stackable design, this incubator delivers dependable performance for laboratories requiring accurate incubation without forced air circulation.

Unlike mechanical convection incubators that continuously circulate heated air, the Isotemp 15-103-0515 utilizes gravity convection heating, producing gentle, natural airflow that helps reduce sample desiccation and minimizes disturbance of lightweight cultures. The incubator operates from 5°C above ambient to 75°C, making it suitable for microbiological incubation, media preparation, quality control testing, and general laboratory heating applications. An intuitive microprocessor controller, bright fluorescent display, internal glass door, adjustable shelving system, and stainless steel construction provide laboratories with an easy-to-use incubator built for everyday operation. Purchasing a refurbished Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator from American Instrument Exchange allows laboratories to obtain dependable laboratory incubation equipment at substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment.

Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator Key Features

180 L (6.4 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
Gravity convection heating system
Temperature range from Ambient +5°C to 75°C
Microprocessor temperature controller
Large fluorescent digital display
Stainless steel interior chamber
Stainless steel exterior
Internal glass observation door
Adjustable shelving system
Two shelves included (up to 19 shelf positions)
Stackable design
Rear access port with silicone plug
Temperature stability of ±0.2°C
Temperature uniformity of ±0.6°C
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange

Designed for Reliable Laboratory Incubation

The Fisherbrand Isotemp 15-103-0515 was developed for laboratories requiring accurate, repeatable incubation temperatures across a broad range of biological and industrial applications. Its 180-liter chamber provides generous capacity for Petri dishes, culture tubes, media bottles, flasks, sample containers, and other laboratory materials while maintaining excellent temperature stability throughout the chamber.

Because the incubator uses gravity convection rather than forced-air circulation, heated air rises naturally through the chamber. This gentle airflow minimizes evaporation of agar plates and liquid samples while reducing disturbance of lightweight materials. The result is highly consistent incubation conditions that are particularly well suited for microbiological laboratories performing prolonged incubations or culturing organisms on agar media.

Common Applications

The Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator is commonly used for:

Microbiology laboratories
Bacterial culture
Yeast and fungal culture
Environmental microbiology
Water quality testing
Food safety testing
Pharmaceutical quality control
Clinical microbiology
Culture media incubation
Stability studies
Seed germination
Educational laboratories
General laboratory warming

Its wide operating temperature range and gravity convection heating make it suitable for both routine incubation and general laboratory heating applications.

Ideal Laboratory Environments

The Fisherbrand Isotemp 15-103-0515 is well suited for microbiology laboratories, environmental testing facilities, food and beverage quality laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology companies, universities, hospitals, water treatment laboratories, and industrial quality control departments.

Laboratories that primarily incubate agar plates or other samples susceptible to drying often prefer gravity convection incubators because the natural airflow creates a gentler incubation environment than mechanical convection systems.

Temperature Uniformity and Gravity Convection Performance

The Isotemp Microbiological Incubator utilizes a gravity convection heating system to maintain stable chamber temperatures while minimizing unnecessary air movement. Operating over a temperature range of Ambient +5°C to 75°C, the incubator provides excellent stability of approximately ±0.2°C and chamber uniformity of approximately ±0.6°C, supporting reproducible incubation conditions for microbiological and laboratory testing applications.

The microprocessor controller continuously monitors chamber temperature, while the internal glass door allows users to inspect samples without exposing the chamber to room air. This reduces heat loss during routine observation and helps the incubator recover more quickly after the outer door is opened.

Laboratory-Friendly Design

The Fisherbrand Isotemp 15-103-0515 was designed to maximize usable chamber space while minimizing laboratory footprint. The adjustable shelving system provides 19 possible shelf positions, allowing laboratories to customize the interior for a wide variety of sample sizes and containers. A rear access port with a silicone plug permits independent temperature monitoring or routing of sensor leads without compromising chamber integrity. The stainless steel interior features rounded corners that simplify routine cleaning and help reduce contamination risk, while the durable stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints and corrosion during years of laboratory use. The incubator can also be stacked with compatible units without requiring additional stacking hardware, making it an excellent choice for laboratories expanding incubation capacity.

Sample Storage Recommendations

The 180-liter (6.4 cubic foot) chamber of the Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator provides generous capacity for a wide variety of microbiological and laboratory samples. The chamber is well suited for Petri dishes, agar plates, culture tubes, Erlenmeyer flasks, media bottles, sample containers, environmental test samples, and other laboratory materials requiring stable incubation temperatures.

The adjustable shelving system allows users to configure the chamber for different sample sizes while maintaining proper airflow. For optimum temperature uniformity, samples should be distributed evenly throughout the chamber with adequate clearance between shelves and chamber walls. Avoid overcrowding shelves, as unrestricted natural air circulation is essential for maintaining consistent gravity convection performance.

Because gravity convection produces gentle, non-forced airflow, this incubator is particularly well suited for agar plates and microbiological cultures that may be susceptible to drying in mechanical convection incubators.

Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs

The Fisherbrand Isotemp 15-103-0515 utilizes a gravity convection heating system that operates without an internal circulation fan. Eliminating forced-air circulation reduces mechanical complexity, minimizes maintenance requirements, and provides quiet operation while consuming less energy than many mechanically ventilated incubators.

The stainless steel chamber is easy to clean and resistant to corrosion, helping reduce routine maintenance over the life of the instrument. Microprocessor controls automatically regulate chamber temperature with minimal user intervention, while the insulated cabinet helps maintain stable temperatures during continuous operation.

The simple, reliable gravity convection design makes this incubator an economical choice for laboratories performing routine microbiological incubation, quality control testing, and general laboratory heating.

Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator Key Specifications

SpecificationDetails
Manufacturer	Fisherbrand
Catalog Number	15-103-0515
Incubator Type	Gravity Convection Microbiological Incubator
Chamber Capacity	180 L (6.35 cu. ft.)
Temperature Range	Ambient +5°C to 75°C
Temperature Stability	±0.2°C
Temperature Uniformity	±0.6°C
Heating System	Gravity Convection
Controller	Microprocessor Digital Controller
Display	Vacuum Fluorescent Digital Display
Chamber Material	Stainless Steel
Interior Dimensions	18.3" W × 23.2" D × 27.9" H
Exterior Dimensions	25.2" W × 29.1" D × 36.2" H
Shelves	2 supplied; up to 19 shelf positions
Shelf Capacity	55 lb
Electrical Requirements	120 V, 60 Hz, 720 W, 6 A
Plug Type	NEMA 5-15
Approximate Weight	143 lb (65 kg)

Specifications are believed to be accurate but may vary depending on production date or configuration. Please verify all specifications prior to purchase.

Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator Frequently Asked Questions

Why choose a gravity convection incubator instead of a mechanical convection model?

Gravity convection incubators rely on the natural movement of warm air rather than a circulating fan. This produces gentler airflow that helps reduce evaporation and sample drying, making gravity convection particularly well suited for microbiological cultures and agar plates.

What types of samples are commonly incubated in this model?

The incubator is designed for agar plates, bacterial cultures, fungal cultures, yeast cultures, environmental samples, culture media, water quality samples, food testing samples, pharmaceutical quality control materials, and other laboratory specimens requiring controlled incubation temperatures.

Can this incubator be used for cell culture?

This model is intended for general laboratory and microbiological incubation. It does not provide carbon dioxide control or high humidity and is therefore not intended for mammalian cell culture applications that require a CO₂ incubator.

How many shelves can the chamber accommodate?

The incubator includes two adjustable shelves and provides up to 19 shelf positions, allowing laboratories to configure the chamber for a wide variety of sample sizes and experimental workflows.

Does the internal glass door improve temperature stability?

Yes. The full-length glass door allows users to observe samples without opening the main insulated door, helping reduce temperature loss and improving recovery following routine inspections.

Is this incubator suitable for quality control laboratories?

Yes. The combination of excellent temperature stability, gravity convection heating, and a broad operating temperature range makes the Isotemp 15-103-0515 well suited for pharmaceutical, food safety, environmental, and industrial quality control laboratories.

What advantages does gravity convection offer for microbiology?

The gentle natural airflow minimizes drying of agar media, reduces disturbance of lightweight samples, and promotes consistent incubation conditions for bacterial, fungal, and yeast cultures over extended incubation periods.

Why purchase a refurbished Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?

Purchasing a refurbished Fisherbrand Isotemp Microbiological Incubator from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with dependable laboratory incubation equipment at substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment. Combining a 180-liter chamber, gravity convection heating, excellent temperature stability, and a durable stainless steel construction, this incubator delivers reliable performance for microbiology, quality control, environmental testing, and general laboratory applications. Every incubator is inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.

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.

Please contact our team at info@americaninstrument.com for more details.

FAQ

Does the equipment come with a warranty?

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.