Many microbiology, pharmaceutical, environmental, and research laboratories require refrigerated incubation with exceptional temperature stability while minimizing vibration, noise, and energy consumption. Applications including microbiological culturing, biological oxygen demand (BOD) testing, environmental monitoring, food quality analysis, and pharmaceutical research benefit from precise environmental control that protects sensitive samples throughout extended incubation periods. The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 Peltier-Cooled Incubator is designed to meet these requirements with a 6.3 cubic foot (178 L) chamber, advanced Peltier cooling technology, a temperature range of 5°C to 70°C, and outstanding temperature stability and uniformity for highly reproducible laboratory results.
Unlike conventional refrigerated incubators that rely on compressor-based cooling, the Heratherm IMP180 uses Peltier thermoelectric technology, eliminating refrigerants while reducing vibration, operating noise, and energy consumption. This makes the incubator particularly well suited for laboratories working with sensitive biological samples or applications where stable environmental conditions are essential. Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with premium refrigerated incubation performance at a substantial savings compared to purchasing a new system.
Mechanical air circulation for uniform chamber conditions
Stainless steel chamber interior
Internal glass door for sample observation
Large vacuum fluorescent display
42 mm access port for probes and monitoring devices
Two stainless steel shelves (expandable to nine)
Energy-efficient operation
120V electrical operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Precision Refrigerated Incubation
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 is engineered for laboratories requiring exceptionally stable temperature control across refrigerated and elevated-temperature applications. Its Peltier thermoelectric cooling system provides smooth, vibration-free temperature regulation without the mechanical cycling associated with compressor-based refrigeration systems. The result is highly stable chamber conditions with minimal environmental disturbance, making the incubator particularly valuable for sensitive microbiological and environmental testing applications.
Mechanical air circulation distributes conditioned air uniformly throughout the chamber, promoting consistent temperatures regardless of shelf position while providing rapid recovery following routine door openings. An internal glass door allows researchers to inspect samples without exposing the chamber to unnecessary temperature fluctuations, while the spacious stainless steel interior is easy to clean and supports a wide variety of laboratory workflows. Combined with programmable controls and excellent temperature performance, the IMP180 delivers dependable refrigerated incubation for laboratories where precision and repeatability are essential.
Common Applications
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 is commonly used for:
Microbiological culturing
Biological oxygen demand (BOD) testing
Environmental microbiology
Water quality analysis
Food and beverage testing
Pharmaceutical quality control
Clinical laboratory research
Sample conditioning
Method validation
General refrigerated incubation
Educational laboratory instruction
Routine research applications
The IMP180 is frequently used alongside biosafety cabinets for aseptic sample preparation, laboratory refrigerators for reagent storage, laboratory freezers for long-term sample preservation, centrifuges for sample processing, and analytical balances for precision laboratory measurements.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 is an excellent choice for microbiology laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturers, environmental testing organizations, food and beverage laboratories, biotechnology companies, universities, hospitals, public health laboratories, contract testing facilities, and industrial quality assurance departments. Its combination of precise temperature control, quiet Peltier operation, and excellent energy efficiency makes it particularly valuable for laboratories requiring dependable refrigerated incubation without the vibration and noise associated with traditional compressor-based systems.
Why Choose the Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180?
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 combines precision temperature control, energy-efficient Peltier cooling, and exceptional environmental stability in a compact refrigerated incubator designed for demanding laboratory applications. Its compressor-free operation, outstanding temperature uniformity, and quiet performance make it an excellent choice for laboratories where sensitive samples and reproducible results are priorities.
Whether supporting microbiological research, environmental analysis, pharmaceutical quality control, or routine laboratory incubation, the Heratherm IMP180 delivers the precision, efficiency, and reliability expected from Thermo Scientific laboratory equipment.
Performance and Temperature Uniformity
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 Peltier-Cooled Incubator is engineered to provide exceptionally stable temperature control for laboratories where environmental consistency directly affects experimental accuracy. Its advanced Peltier thermoelectric cooling system regulates chamber temperature without the use of a traditional compressor, producing smooth temperature transitions while eliminating the vibration, refrigerant cycling, and operating noise commonly associated with conventional refrigerated incubators.
The incubator delivers excellent performance across a 5°C to 70°C operating range, with a temperature stability of approximately ±0.1°C and chamber uniformity of ±0.2°C at 20°C. Mechanical air circulation distributes conditioned air evenly throughout the chamber, promoting consistent incubation conditions on every shelf while providing rapid temperature recovery following routine door openings. These performance characteristics make the IMP180 particularly well suited for laboratories requiring highly reproducible incubation conditions over extended periods.
Peltier cooling also offers significant operational advantages beyond temperature control. Because the system contains fewer moving mechanical components than compressor-based refrigeration, it operates quietly while reducing vibration that could influence sensitive biological samples or analytical procedures. The energy-efficient design also minimizes heat generation within the laboratory, helping reduce operating costs while maintaining dependable environmental performance. Combined with programmable digital controls and a tempered glass inner door for sample observation, the IMP180 provides an ideal environment for laboratories requiring precise refrigerated incubation with minimal environmental disturbance.
Typical Samples and Laboratory Applications
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 supports a broad range of microbiological, environmental, pharmaceutical, and research laboratory applications. Typical samples include bacterial cultures, yeast, fungi, environmental water samples, biological oxygen demand (BOD) samples, pharmaceutical formulations, culture media, food products, beverage samples, quality control standards, environmental monitoring samples, biological specimens, and laboratory reference materials.
Common laboratory applications include microbiological incubation, biological oxygen demand testing, water quality analysis, environmental microbiology, food and beverage quality assurance, pharmaceutical quality control, method validation, sample conditioning, research studies, educational laboratory instruction, and routine refrigerated incubation. Its precise temperature control and low-vibration operation make the incubator particularly valuable for laboratories working with temperature-sensitive biological materials and analytical protocols requiring highly consistent environmental conditions.
Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Scientific
Model
Heratherm IMP180
Equipment Type
Peltier-Cooled Incubator
Chamber Capacity
6.3 cu. ft. (178 L)
Exterior Dimensions
Approximately 29.5" W × 28.5" D × 37.5" H
Interior Dimensions
Approximately 22.0" W × 18.5" D × 26.0" H
Temperature Range
5°C to 70°C
Temperature Stability
±0.1°C
Temperature Uniformity
±0.2°C at 20°C
Cooling Technology
Peltier Thermoelectric
Air Circulation
Mechanical Convection
Chamber Material
Stainless Steel
Interior Door
Tempered Glass
Access Port
42 mm
Shelves
Two Stainless Steel Shelves (Expandable to Nine)
Electrical Requirements
120V, 60 Hz
Specifications are compiled from manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information. Specifications may vary depending on production year and installed options. Please verify chamber dimensions, electrical requirements, shelf configuration, and included accessories prior to purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Peltier-cooled incubator?
A Peltier-cooled incubator uses thermoelectric modules rather than a mechanical refrigeration compressor to cool the chamber. This technology provides highly stable temperature control while reducing vibration, operating noise, and energy consumption.
What advantages does Peltier cooling provide?
Peltier cooling offers quiet operation, excellent temperature stability, reduced vibration, lower energy consumption, and fewer moving mechanical components than traditional compressor-based refrigeration systems. These advantages make it particularly well suited for laboratories working with sensitive biological samples.
What applications is the Heratherm IMP180 best suited for?
The IMP180 is commonly used for microbiological culturing, biological oxygen demand (BOD) testing, environmental monitoring, water quality analysis, food safety testing, pharmaceutical quality control, research studies, and general refrigerated incubation.
How does the internal glass door improve incubation performance?
The tempered glass inner door allows researchers to observe cultures and samples without opening the primary chamber door, helping maintain stable chamber temperatures and reducing recovery times during routine laboratory work.
Which laboratories commonly use the Heratherm IMP180?
The IMP180 is widely used in microbiology laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotechnology companies, environmental testing laboratories, food and beverage laboratories, public health organizations, universities, hospitals, and industrial quality assurance facilities.
Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMP180 Peltier-Cooled Incubator from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with premium refrigerated incubation performance at a substantial savings compared to purchasing a new system. Featuring a 6.3 cubic foot chamber, Peltier thermoelectric cooling, ±0.1°C temperature stability, ±0.2°C temperature uniformity, mechanical air circulation, and energy-efficient compressor-free operation, the Heratherm IMP180 is an excellent choice for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, environmental testing, food safety, and research laboratories. Every unit is thoroughly inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
Click here to see a video of this unit on our YouTube channel.
Click here to read a review of this incubator on our blog.
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.
