Ranco VS Johnson Controls

**kappclark** · 05-11-2008, 04:00 PM

I am wondering if there is any real difference between the Ranco controller and the one from Johnson Controls.

I will be controlling a Sanyo 4912 for fermenting and a 7 cu ft freezer for kegs.

thebull · 05-11-2008, 05:15 PM

I have one of each and they are both fine. I would go with price.

toadyus · 05-12-2008, 05:29 PM

I bought the Ranco...haven't had any issues with it..

**olllllo** · 05-12-2008, 05:47 PM

Alot of people have an issue with the Johnson coil and probe and the analog control.
Budget is the reason people go with these.

Oddly Soperbrew just pushed me this link in the chat.

EDIT: This would be for a Son of Fermentation Chiller.
http://www.wortomatic.com/articles/Remote-Sensing-DIY-Controller-for-Less-Than-$25

JimC · 05-12-2008, 06:02 PM

Johnson A419. its digital but most importantly has an anti short cycle timer which the Ranco doesn't.

**TexLaw** · 05-12-2008, 07:13 PM

I have a Ranco and a Johnson A419, and they are both fine. The main difference in operation is how the set temperature difference works.

TL

nathan · 05-14-2008, 11:57 AM

That johnson, does it control a heating device and a cooling device at the same time so you can set a controlled temperature range?

JimC · 05-14-2008, 07:09 PM

It can do both, but not simultaneously and it requires opening the case and flipping a jumper.

nathan · 05-14-2008, 08:16 PM

I better stick with the Ranco then. My garage can be cold in the night and hot in the day, extending above or below a fermentation temperature I'm trying to reach.

**kappclark** · 06-07-2008, 12:51 PM

I wanted to thank all of you for your advice...

got the Ranco off EBay, and the wiring was not that big a deal ..

Connected the 15 cu ft freezer, and set it to 42 ... I was amazed how fast the freezer came down ... holding steady with 3 degree differential (is that enough ?)

I am lagering a clone brew called Road Dog Ale, which calls for 42 deg for 3 weeks in secondary. It is nice to know that the temp will be steady.

Looks like lagering is now part of my vocbulary ...