DIY Temperature Controller?

Musketear · 09-29-2009, 12:54 AM

I really would love to get into lagering, but have one big problem stopping me. I really don't want to shell out $50-something for a temperature controller. Does anyone know of a way to build or obtain one for cheaper?

Cheers,
Jeff

**Soperbrew** · 09-29-2009, 12:57 AM

You could try this.

http://www.wortomatic.com/articles/Remote-Sensing-DIY-Controller-for-Less-Than-$25

Musketear · 09-29-2009, 01:10 AM

I thought about that, I am just not sure how to get the thermostat to switch on a 120V Refrigerator or A/C unit...

**lamarguy** · 09-29-2009, 01:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Musketear

I thought about that, I am just not sure how to get the thermostat to switch on a 120V Refrigerator or A/C unit...

You'll need a low voltage (12/24v power supply) and a relay. $10 - $15 for both of those items, unless you already have them lying around.

Which puts you at - $40 + your time for hacking the A/C thermostat.

Do yourself a favor and buy correctly designed parts the first time...

**Yuri_Rage** · 09-29-2009, 01:34 AM

While I don't want to rain on your parade, I agree with lamarguy's first two statements.

I completely object to his third line, though. I really like making my own stuff. It's not always cheaper, it does take time, but I learn a ton, and it's very enjoyable.

**lamarguy** · 09-29-2009, 01:46 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lamarguy

Do yourself a favor and buy correctly designed parts the first time...

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yuri_Rage

I completely object to his third line, though. I really like making my own stuff. It's not always cheaper, it does take time, but I learn a ton, and it's very enjoyable.

If a part doesn't exist or can be built for a reasonable price (<= commercial part and of similar quality), I completely agree. But, hacking an A/C thermostat when well priced analog/digital controllers are available on the open market in an attempt to save $10 and potentially destroy a thermostat?

**Yuri_Rage** · 09-29-2009, 01:58 AM

In the process, one might learn:

How to solder
About relays
About sensors
About circuit design

If the motivation is purely monetary, it's a bit of a frivolous venture. If the motivation is a learning experience culminating in the satisfaction of successfully building a useful tool...I say, brilliant!

Musketear · 09-29-2009, 02:09 AM

Well... I sort of have to agree with both of you. 1, the savings is not worth the time. 2, the learning that might occur may be worth it.

But right now I don't have the time for the learning. So I guess lagering will have to wait until I have a little more cash to spend on stuff.

**pickles** · 09-29-2009, 02:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Musketear

I really don't want to shell out $50-something for a temperature controller.

The OP is looking for less expensive alternative not a vocational lesson. I agree with Lamarguy.

**lamarguy** · 09-29-2009, 03:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yuri_Rage

If the motivation is purely monetary, it's a bit of a frivolous venture. If the motivation is a learning experience culminating in the satisfaction of successfully building a useful tool...I say, brilliant!

Philosophically speaking, I say brilliant too!

Musketear, good luck with your temperature control problem.