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VWR 2020 Refrigerated BOD Incubator – Used and Refurbished
The VWR 2020 Refrigerated BOD Incubator is a large-capacity, low-temperature laboratory incubator designed for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) testing, environmental microbiology, water and wastewater analysis, and other applications requiring precise temperature control above and below ambient conditions. Featuring a 20.3 cu. ft. (approximately 575 L) chamber, a temperature range of -10°C to +40°C, mechanical convection, and automatic defrost, the VWR 2020 provides dependable incubation conditions for environmental, industrial, and research laboratories.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, the VWR Model 2020 offers a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a new large-capacity BOD incubator. Its spacious chamber accommodates up to 305 standard 300 mL BOD bottles in the manufacturer's specified configuration, making it particularly useful for laboratories processing substantial quantities of water and wastewater samples.
The VWR 2020 combines digital temperature control, forced-air circulation, a fan-cooled refrigeration system, and independent high- and low-temperature safety controls to provide stable operating conditions during extended incubation procedures.
Key Features
Large 20.3 cu. ft. (approximately 575 L) refrigerated chamber
Temperature range from -10°C to +40°C
Temperature uniformity of approximately ±0.5°C
Capacity for up to 305 standard 300 mL BOD bottles in the specified configuration
Mechanical convection for consistent air distribution
Fan-cooled, overload-protected refrigeration system
Digital temperature setpoint controller
Direct-reading digital temperature display
Independent high- and low-temperature safety controls
Automatic defrost system
Floor drain for removal of accumulated condensate
Internal electrical outlet rated for compatible equipment up to 1 amp
Large upright chamber for high-volume sample incubation
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
VWR 2020 Overview
The VWR Model 2020 was developed for laboratories requiring a large, temperature-controlled environment for biochemical oxygen demand testing and other refrigerated incubation applications.
Unlike conventional laboratory incubators that maintain temperatures only above ambient, the VWR 2020 incorporates both heating and refrigeration. This allows the chamber to maintain temperatures from -10°C to +40°C, supporting a broad range of biological and environmental testing procedures.
Its 20.3 cu. ft. interior provides substantially more capacity than smaller benchtop BOD incubators, making the Model 2020 particularly attractive for municipal wastewater laboratories, environmental testing facilities, industrial quality-control departments, and research institutions.
The incubator uses mechanical convection to distribute conditioned air throughout the chamber. An internal circulation system helps maintain uniform temperatures across the sample compartment, reducing differences between shelf positions.
The digital temperature controller allows operators to establish the desired incubation temperature, while a direct-reading digital display provides convenient monitoring of chamber conditions.
The refrigeration system is fan-cooled and incorporates overload protection to support reliable operation during extended low-temperature procedures.
Automatic defrost and an integrated floor drain help manage moisture accumulation associated with refrigerated operation.
Together, these features make the VWR 2020 a practical choice for laboratories requiring dependable, high-capacity refrigerated incubation.
Common Applications
The VWR 2020 is particularly well suited for biochemical oxygen demand testing, environmental microbiology, wastewater analysis, and other laboratory procedures requiring controlled temperatures over extended periods.
BOD testing is one of its primary applications. Environmental laboratories commonly incubate prepared water and wastewater samples at 20°C for five days to measure the oxygen consumed by microorganisms as they break down biodegradable organic material.
The VWR 2020 provides a large chamber capable of accommodating numerous BOD bottles simultaneously, helping laboratories manage substantial daily sample volumes.
Municipal wastewater treatment facilities may use the incubator for routine influent and effluent monitoring, process evaluation, and regulatory testing.
Environmental testing laboratories can use it for surface water, groundwater, industrial discharge, and other water-quality investigations.
Microbiology laboratories may use the chamber for selected bacterial and fungal cultures requiring temperatures below or near ambient laboratory conditions.
The incubator is also suitable for certain seed germination studies, temperature-dependent biological experiments, and industrial product-conditioning procedures.
The VWR Model 2020 accommodates a wide range of environmental, biological, and industrial samples requiring controlled temperatures.
Typical applications include:
Water and wastewater BOD samples
Municipal wastewater treatment samples
Industrial wastewater samples
Surface water and groundwater samples
Environmental microbiology cultures
Bacterial and fungal cultures
Seed germination experiments
Temperature-sensitive biological materials
Industrial quality-control samples
Research samples requiring refrigerated incubation
The large chamber accommodates conventional BOD bottles, sample containers, laboratory flasks, and other vessels suitable for the selected incubation temperature.
For laboratories performing routine BOD analysis, the manufacturer's published capacity of 305 standard 300 mL bottles provides a useful indication of the chamber's potential sample throughput.
Actual bottle capacity depends on the installed shelving arrangement, bottle dimensions, and the amount of space required for adequate air circulation.
For best temperature performance, sample containers should be arranged to avoid blocking airflow passages or placing excessive loads against chamber walls.
BOD Testing & Water Quality Analysis
Biochemical oxygen demand testing is one of the principal applications for the VWR 2020.
BOD testing measures the amount of dissolved oxygen consumed by microorganisms during the biological decomposition of organic material in a water sample.
The conventional five-day BOD test, commonly referred to as BOD5, involves incubating prepared samples at 20°C in the dark for five days.
This procedure is widely used by municipal wastewater treatment facilities, environmental testing laboratories, and industrial wastewater monitoring programs.
The VWR 2020 provides the controlled-temperature environment required for these procedures.
Its mechanical convection system helps maintain consistent conditions throughout the chamber, while the refrigeration system allows the incubator to hold 20°C even when the surrounding laboratory is warmer.
The large chamber provides sufficient space for laboratories processing substantial sample volumes.
Because BOD results depend on following an established analytical method, laboratories should verify incubator temperature performance and maintain appropriate monitoring records according to their applicable procedures.
The incubator's operating range also accommodates other environmental testing methods requiring temperatures below or above the conventional 20°C BOD setpoint.
Refrigerated Temperature Control & Uniformity
The VWR 2020 incorporates an integrated heating and refrigeration system designed to maintain stable temperatures across its -10°C to +40°C operating range.
The refrigeration system is fan-cooled and overload-protected, supporting continuous operation during extended low-temperature procedures.
A digital controller allows operators to establish the desired temperature setpoint, while the direct-reading thermometer provides convenient monitoring of actual chamber conditions.
Manufacturer specifications identify temperature uniformity of approximately ±0.5°C under specified operating conditions.
Temperature uniformity is especially important for BOD testing because differences between sample positions can introduce unwanted variability into analytical results.
The mechanical convection system circulates conditioned air throughout the chamber to reduce temperature differences between shelves and sample locations.
Unlike gravity-convection incubators, which rely primarily on natural air movement, the VWR 2020 uses forced circulation to distribute heated or cooled air.
This is particularly beneficial in a large-capacity chamber containing numerous bottles or sample containers.
Actual temperature performance depends on laboratory ambient conditions, sample loading, airflow clearance, and the frequency of door openings.
For regulated testing procedures, laboratories should verify chamber temperature using calibrated monitoring equipment.
Mechanical Convection & Chamber Airflow
The VWR Model 2020 uses mechanical convection to distribute conditioned air throughout the incubation chamber.
An internal fan circulates air across the refrigeration and heating systems before returning it to the sample compartment.
This arrangement helps maintain consistent temperatures throughout the large interior.
Mechanical convection is particularly useful in high-capacity BOD incubators because large quantities of sample bottles can obstruct natural airflow.
Forced circulation reduces temperature differences between shelf positions and helps the chamber recover following routine door openings.
For optimal performance, sample containers should be arranged to maintain adequate clearance around air passages.
Excessive sample loading or blocked circulation pathways can affect temperature uniformity.
The circulation system should also be inspected and maintained as part of routine equipment service.
Automatic Defrost & Condensate Management
The VWR 2020 incorporates an automatic defrost system designed to manage frost accumulation during refrigerated operation.
Frost can develop on cooling components when moisture enters the chamber during door openings or when humid samples are introduced.
Accumulated frost can reduce refrigeration efficiency and affect temperature performance.
The automatic defrost system helps maintain normal operation by periodically addressing frost buildup.
The chamber also incorporates a floor drain that directs accumulated moisture away from the sample compartment.
This simplifies routine cleaning and helps prevent standing water from collecting inside the chamber.
Proper drainage and regular inspection are important for maintaining sanitary operating conditions.
The VWR 2020 does not provide independent relative-humidity regulation, and the defrost system should not be confused with an active humidity-control system.
Digital Controls & Sample Protection
The VWR 2020 incorporates a digital temperature setpoint controller and direct-reading digital thermometer.
These controls allow laboratory personnel to establish the desired incubation temperature and monitor actual chamber conditions during operation.
The incubator also includes independent high- and low-temperature safety controls designed to provide protection against abnormal temperature conditions.
These safety features are particularly valuable during extended BOD testing procedures, where samples may remain inside the chamber for several days.
The manufacturer's documentation also identifies an internal electrical outlet rated for a maximum load of 1 amp.
This outlet can accommodate compatible low-power equipment, such as certain laboratory stirrers or other apparatus approved for operation within the chamber.
Equipment connected to the internal outlet must be suitable for the chamber environment and must not exceed the specified electrical rating.
Heat generated by powered equipment should also be considered because additional internal heat loads may affect temperature performance.
For applications requiring documented temperature histories, laboratories can use compatible external monitoring equipment to record chamber conditions throughout the incubation period.
VWR 2020 Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
VWR
Model
2020
AIE Product Code
3183Z INC
Equipment Type
Refrigerated BOD Incubator
Chamber Capacity
20.3 cu. ft. (approximately 575 L)
AIE Advertised Capacity
20 cu. ft.
BOD Bottle Capacity
Up to 305 standard 300 mL bottles
Temperature Range
-10°C to +40°C
Temperature Uniformity
Approximately ±0.5°C
Temperature Controller
Digital setpoint controller
Temperature Readout
Direct-reading digital thermometer
Heating
Electrically controlled
Refrigeration
Fan-cooled, overload-protected system
Air Circulation
Mechanical convection
Defrost
Automatic
Condensate Drain
Floor drain
High/Low Temperature Safety Controls
Yes
Internal Electrical Outlet
1 amp maximum
Manufacturer Interior Dimensions (W × D × H)
27" × 23.5" × 57"
AIE Listed Interior Dimensions (W × D × H)
27" × 23" × 55.5"
Manufacturer Exterior Dimensions (W × D × H)
34.5" × 32" × 77"
AIE Listed Exterior Dimensions (W × D × H)
34" × 30" × 77"
Manufacturer Net Weight
246 lb.
Manufacturer Shipping Weight
340 lb.
AIE Listed Weight
Approximately 360 lb.
Electrical Requirements
115V, 50/60 Hz, 8 A; verify nameplate
Independent Humidity Control
No
CO₂ Control
No
Warranty
90 days through American Instrument Exchange
Specifications are based on the original VWR Model 2020 operating manual and AIE's listing for SKU 3183Z INC. Actual dimensions, shelving, electrical configuration, and shipping weight should be confirmed for the individual refurbished unit.
VWR 2020 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VWR 2020 used for?
The VWR 2020 is a refrigerated laboratory incubator designed for biochemical oxygen demand testing, environmental microbiology, water and wastewater analysis, and other applications requiring controlled temperatures from -10°C to +40°C.
Is the VWR 2020 suitable for BOD5 testing?
Yes. The incubator can maintain the 20°C temperature commonly required for five-day biochemical oxygen demand testing. Laboratories should follow the applicable analytical method and verify chamber temperature performance before conducting regulated testing.
How many BOD bottles can the VWR 2020 accommodate?
The manufacturer's published capacity is up to 305 standard 300 mL BOD bottles. Actual capacity depends on the installed shelving arrangement and the dimensions of the bottles being used.
What is the temperature range of the VWR 2020?
The VWR 2020 operates from -10°C to +40°C, allowing it to maintain temperatures below and above ambient laboratory conditions.
Does the VWR 2020 have refrigeration?
Yes. The incubator incorporates a fan-cooled, overload-protected refrigeration system designed for continuous low-temperature incubation.
What is the capacity of the VWR 2020?
The manufacturer's published chamber capacity is 20.3 cu. ft., or approximately 575 liters. AIE advertises the unit as a 20 cu. ft. incubator.
Does the VWR 2020 use forced-air circulation?
Yes. The incubator uses mechanical convection to distribute conditioned air throughout the chamber and maintain consistent temperatures between sample positions.
Does the VWR 2020 have automatic defrost?
Yes. The Model 2020 incorporates an automatic defrost system and a floor drain to help manage moisture accumulation during refrigerated operation.
Can the VWR 2020 be used for microbiology applications other than BOD testing?
Yes. The incubator can support selected microbiological cultures, environmental testing procedures, and other biological applications requiring temperatures within its operating range.
Does the VWR 2020 control humidity or CO₂ concentration?
No. The VWR 2020 controls chamber temperature but does not provide independent relative-humidity or CO₂ regulation.
Does the VWR 2020 have an internal electrical outlet?
Yes. The manufacturer's documentation identifies an internal outlet rated for equipment drawing no more than 1 amp. The outlet and its condition should be verified on the individual refurbished unit.
Is this VWR 2020 refurbished?
The VWR 2020 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 accuracy and stability. Heating, refrigeration, air circulation, safety controls, and other installed functions are evaluated as applicable. Components are repaired or replaced as necessary, and refurbished equipment includes a 90-day warranty.
Want to view a video of this unit? Click Hereto see the VWR 2020 incubator on the American Instrument Exchange 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.
